Arsham Bassiri Abyaneh, Andrew Allan, Johannes Pieters, Sekhar Somenahalli and Ali Soltani - Research Project Team at University of South Australia
Walkable for Who? Applying a GIS-based Walkability Assessment Tool at the Metropolitan and Local Levels by Sex and Age in Australia with the Focus on the Greater Adelaide Metropolitan Area
The research undertaken is the first of its kind to conduct a comparative strategic walkability analysis between different jurisdictions in all eight States and Territories of Australia. The research is comprehensive and thorough and is clearly a very sound and transferable piece of work. The research methodology provides a basis for additional research of this type to be conducted in the future to help inform evidence-based decision making, strategic planning and policy development.
The quality and robust nature of the work is founded upon: the use of ABS data sets ensuring adaptability and a solid basis for analysis; the inclusion of criteria for selecting specific ABS statistical areas enabling the balanced representation of regions; and by focusing on different age and gender groups, the study recognizes the importance of addressing varying demographic needs when analysing walkability and commuting behaviors.
The study makes a significant contribution to the improvement of local urban planning by providing a highly useful analysis of walkability. The outcomes of this national analysis can be used by Local Governments and strategic planners to understand the walkability performance of their various jurisdictions.
It is anticipated that the work will also be adaptable for various planning scenarios stemming from the research and findings to date. Application of this tool has the potential to extend far beyond initial application, finding relevance in a variety of planning contexts.
This planning research and its findings are most worthy of an Award for Excellence.