Integrated Urban Planning in South Africa: A legislative and strategic framework
South Africa’s approach to urban development is underpinned by a comprehensive legislative and policy framework designed to promote integrated planning.
This framework is not just a set of guidelines but a strategic tool aimed at fostering sustainable and equitable growth across the nation’s diverse landscapes.
The legislative pillars of integrated planning
At the heart of South Africa’s integrated planning are several key pieces of legislation:
The National Development Plan (NDP):
Serving as a blueprint for the country’s future, the NDP outlines long-term strategies to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030.
The White Paper on Local Government (1998):
This document provides a vision for local government as an inclusive, responsive, and accountable sphere of governance.
The Municipal Systems Act (No. 32 of 2000):
It sets out the core principles, mechanisms, and processes that are necessary to enable municipalities to move progressively towards the social and economic upliftment of local communities.
The National Environmental Management Act (No. 107 of 1998, amended by Act No. 25 of 2014):
It emphasizes sustainable development and the use of natural resources while promoting justifiable economic and social development.
The Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (No. 16 of 2013, SPLUMA):
A more recent addition, SPLUMA provides a framework for spatial planning and land-use management, ensuring that development is equitable and efficient.
Strategies for alignment and integration
The legislation is supported by various strategies and plans that aim to align government actions:
Spatial Development Frameworks (SDFs):
These are strategic plans that guide the future development of municipalities, ensuring that land use is both sustainable and economically viable.
Integrated Development Plans (IDPs):
IDPs are multi-year plans adopted by municipalities to guide development in their areas, reflecting the needs and priorities of communities.
Built Environment Performance Plans (BEPPs):
These plans focus on infrastructure investments, transport, roads, and human settlements, aiming to improve the performance of the built environment.
Challenges in implementation
Despite the robust framework, South Africa faces challenges in realizing the desired outcomes of integrated planning.
Spatial fragmentation and inefficiencies persist due to competing sectoral priorities and insufficient alignment of resources.
The role of SPLUMA
The enactment of SPLUMA has been a significant step forward. It aims to bring greater consistency and uniformity in land-use decisions and development applications.
By specifying the relationship between spatial planning and other types of planning, SPLUMA seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable approach to land-use management.
Urban transformation levers
Municipalities have at their disposal various levers to manage urban transformation effectively:
Long-term Development Visions: For example, Tshwane’s vision for 2055, which outlines the city’s long-term development trajectory.
City Development Strategies:
Such as Johannesburg’s Corridors of Freedom, which focuses on transforming spatial and social divides.
Service Sector Plans:
These are specialized plans that address specific areas not covered by the IDP, such as measures to support informal and small businesses in well-located spaces.
In conclusion, South Africa’s integrated planning framework is a testament to its commitment to sustainable and equitable urban development.
While challenges remain, the legislative and policy tools in place provide a solid foundation for addressing the complexities of urban transformation in the 21st century.
The success of these efforts will ultimately depend on the effective implementation and harmonization of these diverse yet interconnected strategies.
