Comparative Analysis of 20-Minute Neighbourhood Policies and Practices in Melbourne and Scotland

Citation

Chau H, Gilzean I, Jamei E, Palmer L, Preece T & Quirke M (2022) Comparative Analysis of 20-Minute Neighbourhood Policies and Practices in Melbourne and Scotland. Urban Planning, 7 (4), pp. 13-24. https://doi.org/10.17645/up.v7i4.5668

Abstract
Twenty-minute neighbourhoods highlight the importance of well-connected and mixed-used neighbourhoods and communities with proximate access to employment, essential services, public transport, and open spaces. Shorter distances together with re-prioritised public spaces encourage more active transport choices, resulting in public health benefits and reduced environmental pollution. Higher liveability brought about by mixed-use developments enables people to have equitable access to local facilities, amenities, and employment opportunities, promoting vibrancy, social cohesion, and intergenerational connections. The attributes of 20-minute neighbourhoods also combine to create places, that are acknowledged as friendly for all ages, address changing needs across the life course, and provide better support for the age-ing population. Furthermore, there are indications that 20-minute neighbourhoods may be more resilient against many of the negative impacts of stringent public health protocols such as those implemented in periods of lockdown during the Covid-19 pandemic. In this article, we evaluate and compare planning policies and practices aimed at establishing 20-minute neighbourhoods in Melbourne (Australia) and Scotland (the UK). Using case studies, we discuss similarities and differences involved in using place-based approaches of 20-minute neighbourhoods to address 21st-century challenges in key areas of health and wellbeing, equity, environmental sustainability, and community resilience.

Keywords
20-minute neighbourhood; accessibility; active transport; age-friendly; Australia; climate change; Covid-19; liveability; Scotland; walkability

Journal
Urban Planning: Volume 7, Issue 4