An urban geography inquiry : a case study of the urban morphology of Attard as a preliminary study in urban planning

Abstract

The study of urban morphology is considered as a prerequisite to urban planning as research is conducted with the aim of understanding the elements of the townscape and their relationship. The primary objective of this study is to present a comprehensive account of urban morphology. Urban morphology is defined as 'the systematic study of the origin, growth, form, plan, structure, functions and development of a town, of the urban habitat' (Clark, 1985). The case study inquires how these criteria that define urban morphology define Attard within the context of population, housing and transport. The morphological transformation of the built environment of the locality in terms of its origin, growth, form and structure are analysed by means of aerial photography. Additionally, the Local Plan of Attard is reviewed to identify the policies and projects established for the locality. A survey, sampling five per cent of the households within the locality, has been carried out to check if the primary findings relating to demography, housing, transport mobility and perception, compare to the secondary findings. Such findings are subsequently discussed. Suggestions are put forward to alleviate any identified problems. It is concluded that the study of urban morphology should be a prerequisite to urban planning.