Space Syntax Analysis of Gated Communities in Jordan: Examining Urban Connectivity and Social Impact

Ahmed Hammad (), Mengbi Li and Zora Vrcelj
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Ahmed Hammad: Institute for Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities (ISILC), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia
Mengbi Li: Institute for Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities (ISILC), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia
Zora Vrcelj: Institute for Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities (ISILC), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 2, 1-19

Abstract: The trend of gated communities is becoming the new alternative housing for the high-end residents of Jordan, reflecting global patterns of urbanisation. However, their emergence on the outskirts of Amman on vacant lands requires an early proactive planning approach to ensure their development in response to the growth of the surrounding areas, fostering an integrated urban fabric. This article examines whether gated communities contribute to urban discontinuity and lead to social segregation. The study employs a space syntax analysis on two cases in Amman to assess their integration, accessibility, and navigability to address the study’s key questions related to its integration, design implications, and spatial layout. Findings reveal significant spatial segregation, with low levels of integration and high step depth values, indicating potential challenges in navigation, connectivity, residents’ mobility, accessibility, and safety. The article suggests the importance of re-evaluating the design and planning approaches for these developments to promote organic townscape growth to ensure smooth integration with the surroundings.

Keywords: gated communities; urban discontinuity/connectivity; spatial segregation; sustainable growth; design adaptability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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