Activities of the Neighborhood Association and an Evaluation of the Residential Environment in a Suburban Area of Yokohama

抄録

Many Japanese old "new towns" are subject to planning regulations that strictly limit land use to residential applications. While such regulations have helped create a favorable living environment, the rigid rules fail to serve the emerging needs of Japan’s aging population. Consequently, measures to accommodate non-residential uses in the suburban new towns are being explored. This study identifies the perceived issues and clarifies the evaluation of suburban residents regarding their living environment through a case study of Shonan Katsuradai, Yokohama. After reviewing relevant spatial planning information and the initiatives of the local neighborhood association (NA) aimed at maintaining the living environment while deregulating usage restrictions on mixed-use housing, a questionnaire survey of 3,079 residents and interviews with multiple NA members were conducted. The study focused four items: the general issues perceived by the residents, spatial characteristics, place attachment, and community activity. According to their responses, residents appreciated the overall townscape, green environment, and nature, which attract newcomers. However, while the central zone with non-residential uses was a favorite destination of residents, there was a high dissatisfaction with the existing recreational functions, which are allowed under the existing deregulated district plan for mixed-use houses. Future efforts are expected to supplement the lacking functions, such as incorporating recreational facilities into residential homes, which would greatly enhance the livability of the neighborhood.