Science and the city: critical reflections on connecting the two

Abstract

Many aspects of city planning and design connected to science deserve justification. We are interested in learning what key performance matrices are used in developing a model of the built environment. What is the basis for selecting or deciding on an effective model? Are we able to test the resilience of the model? How sensitive are these models to design features from outline planning to detailed planning applications? And so on. Building on the critical insights from Michael Batty’s recent dialogue with the authors, the paper looks into these questions through the lenses that city science is seldom seen to deal with, such as the circular economy, social justice and equity. The conclusions suggest that the failure to apply knowledge synchronously and negligence to promote cross-disciplinary collaboration hamper progress and innovation. Successful integration of urban initiatives and a correct understanding of city science must require a comprehensive and balanced approach, engaging in enhanced communication, participatory planning, education and outreach, interdisciplinary teams, data integration with technology, regular reviews and adjustments, and conducive policy frameworks. Engaging in these integrations signifies aligning city science approaches to derive development solutions with various urban initiatives, ensuring they are relevant, inclusive, and adaptable to changing urban dynamics.