Evaluating the satisfaction rate for affordable housing in non-gated residential area (NGR): the case of Al-Sharq housing project in Zarqa-Jordan

Abstract

Purpose Non-gated residential communities (NGR) are now becoming significant in Jordan resulting in an increase in low and medium-income areas. This study aims to investigate the sense of community at residential level within NGR by testing the characteristics presented in the first and largest non-gated community in Jordan (Al-Sharq project). Design/methodology/approach Such characteristics were identified via literary reviews and visual data collected through site visits, observation and photographs of the project's physical settings. This formed the basis of a questionnaire/survey that was distributed to the residents. This research depends on the mixed-method approach (qualitative and quantitative) to achieve the research objectives. The quantitative method involved the use of a questionnaire/survey, while the qualitative method undertook a comparative process using some statistical methods for the main characteristics. The results were analysed by using descriptive statistics, comprising frequency and factor analyses. Findings The study concludes with a framework consisting of suggestions and recommendations to remove the main constraints on improving the quality of life for the non-gated residential community. Practical implications The outcome of this study will influence the decisions made by the parties involved in urban development in Jordan when designing residential neighborhoods. Originality/value The significance of this paper is that while the majority of studies have been on the evaluation of gated communities in developing countries, there have only been a limited of studies specifically examining the experience of residents in those environments. Therefore, this paper contributes and adds to the existing knowledge in the development of non-gated communities in a developing country.

Sustainable housing development: role and significance of satisfaction aspect

“…The provision of well-located open spaces and good access to public infrastructure play a crucial role in increasing urban sustainability, which is taken into account in the Estidama rating system. Similar results were obtained in the works (Winston 2017; Al Shawabke et al 2020).…”

Quality Affordable Housing Concept: Case Studies in Mehr, Iran, Dharavi, India, Al-Sharq, Jordan and Bashayer Al-Khair, Egypt

“…The government transformed site of the military camps in Zarqa to quality housing project. It was chosen to measure the degree of housing quality that Al Sharq housing project obtains in terms of residential satisfaction with the social, environmental and physical conditions of this housing project [6]. This project aims to create a modern, integrated city, that forms a major urban landmark and a natural extension of the city of Zarqa.…”

“…The constructed phase of the project covering 250 hectares is located along the Amman-Zarqa highway. It includes a set of districts [6]:…”

Spatial Modeling of Transformation of Public Open Spaces in Zarqa, Jordan

“…The railway passed through Zarqa for the purpose of pilgrimage. In 1902, the Chechen people coming from central Asia started to settle in Zarqa City around Zarqa stream [75,76]. In 1926, Zarqa became the base for the military force.…”

“…Several reasons stand behind selecting this particular governorate as the study area. The first reason is that the city of Zarqa is the second largest city in Jordan after the capital, Amman, in terms of the general economic activity, and the third largest city in terms of population density [72,75]. Secondly, it has witnessed high population density and high urban growth that led to a reduction in the proportion of open spaces and the emergence of new informal open spaces [6].…”