Applicability of Perry’s neighbourhood concept in neighbourhood planning in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Perry’s neighbourhood concept has been considered a substantial paradigm shift in neighbourhood planning since 1929 and has now been reaffirmed under new urbanism. Eventhough Sri Lanka has implemented several neighbourhood concepts in housing developments, it lacks proper evaluation. The current study explores the applicability of Perry’s neighbourhood concept in Sri Lanka, employing two case studies in suburban areas in the Colombo district. The study relied on both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study highlights that edge-centred arteries and loop layout of neighbourhood paths help walkability. Open space at the centre of the neighbourhood with a well-connected footpath increases residents’ physical and social activities. The establishment of commercial facilities on the outer edge of the neighbourhood helped to reduce traffic in the neighbourhood. However, the study questioned the functionality of the elementary school with the unequal distribution of recourses among schools in Sri Lanka. The results provide guidelines for future neighbourhood planning that combines Perry’s concept but with local settings and future aspirations.