The Importance of Physical Linkage and Connectivity to Integrate the Kampung and Formal Parts of the City Case Study: Hegarmanah and Ciumbuleuit Sub-districts, Bandung

Abstract

This research intends to investigate the critical role of physical linkage and connectivity in the integration between formal and informal urban kampung areas of the city, as well as identify what aspects are related to physical and social segregation that are preventing this integration process. Our objective in this study is to understand this critical role in relation to the feasibility of integration. The qualitative method will be applied to verify and describe the effectiveness of connectivity and linkage, the complexity of the built environment with open spaces and interaction between formal and informal areas. This research includes two important settlement areas in Bandung, Indonesia, i.e., Hegarmanah and Ciumbuleuit. Our findings show that Hegarmanah has more incidence of controlled areas, through physical barriers and legal restrictions, which increase limitations for the circulation of outsiders, featuring an enclosed configuration. Ciumbuleuit, on the other hand, presents less controlled areas, encouraging a wider variety of services, commerce and commuting. The interactions between pedestrians, vehicles and the built environment has been through more adaptation, pointing toward a more open configuration. In conclusion, the exchange that once existed between these urban kampungs and the city has been jeopardized because of the current space configuration that has experienced isolation, limited access through narrow roads, borders and other restrictions. There’s lack of a stable connection between the planned and spontaneous and the way people connect, and establish linkage has been affected by spatial segregation. Built-form and open space relation have been affected, borders and other forms of control represent an obstruction to this integration process, as it impairs connectivity. Integration will only be encouraged if space is articulated between different social strata and adapted to changes through time. This research reveals that the coexistence of apparently social and physically segregated formal and informal (kampung) parts of the city can be comprehended when there is a correct interpretation of the role of physical linkage and connectivity through the analysis of space and social issues.