Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (Research Outputs)
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Browsing Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (Research Outputs) by SDG "SDG-11: Sustainable cities and communities"
Item Balancing urban regeneration to prevent displacement: a conceptual strategy for inclusivity in South Africa(Proceedings of the AfRES 2024 Conference, 2024-09) Gethe, Faranani; Simbanegavi, PriscaThe regeneration of urban areas and neighbourhoods plays a crucial role in mitigating urban decay and enhancing socio-economic conditions. However, conventional urban renewal initiatives often inadvertently perpetuate geographies of exclusion, chiefly through gentrification and displacement. This paper is aimed at devising effective urban regeneration strategies that prioritise social inclusivity while mitigating the negative impacts of gentrification and displacement of poor people. The study employed a literature and theoretical review approach, utilising published articles and documents to assess the impact of urban regeneration programs on poor communities. The outcomes include the identification of shortcomings in current urban regeneration strategies and the need to formulate more equitable approaches. This study's significance lies in its contribution to expanding knowledge on urban redevelopment, particularly in the developing world of the global south. Furthermore, it will inform policy development aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) of the United Nations, thus facilitating much-needed advancements in urban development policies.Item Comparing occupant satisfaction in Green versus Conventional Residential Real Estate in South Africa(Proceedings of the AfRES 2024 Conference, 2024-09) Masotya, Adam; Simbanegavi, Prisca; Weaich, Malcolm; Adewunmi, Yewande; Ndlovu, Pride; Gethe, FarananiThis study compares occupant satisfaction in green versus conventional residential real estate in South Africa. It investigates the benefits and satisfaction levels related to green developments, particularly in terms of energy savings and socio-economic Impacts. The research aimed to determine if there is a significant difference in occupant satisfaction between green and conventional residential developments. A quantitative approach was employed, utilizing stratified random sampling to survey 160 occupants from two developments: Crossberry Central (green) and Little Manhattan (conventional). Data was analysed using the Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon W tests due to non- normal data distribution. The findings indicate that occupants of green developments report significantly higher satisfaction levels. Key areas of satisfaction include air quality, utility savings, and environmental benefits. Green developments demonstrate higher levels of satisfaction regarding reduced utility bills, improved indoor air quality, and contributions to environmental conservation. The study concludes that green residential developments significantly enhance occupant satisfaction compared to conventional housing. This suggests a socio-cultural shift towards valuing sustainable living environments, emphasising the importance of promoting green building practices to improve both environmental and occupant well-being.Item Detecting and preventing unbalanced bidding in South African public sector construction(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-07) Tilese, Neliswa; Makhaga, Thendo; Mphahlele, Matjelele; Zungu, Zamageda; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, RunmingUnbalanced bidding in public sector infrastructure projects is a key challenge, involving the manipulation of unit prices without adjusting the overall bid. Unbalanced bidding increases the client’s financial risks and the likelihood of project abandonment by the contractor. Existing literature provides guidelines for detecting and preventing bid price imbalances but inadequately addresses the practical implementation and efficacy of these approaches. This research aims to evaluate the practices for detecting and preventing unbalanced bidding in the South African public sector against existing formal models. This qualitative case study employs semi-structured interviews with quantity surveyors from public sector clients in Gauteng, South Africa. The purposive, non-probabilistic sampling targets professionals with relevant expertise. A thematic analysis of the interview data reveals insights into the awareness, consequences, and practices associated with unbalanced bidding in the South African public sector. The study findings highlight the need for strengthened governance and accountability, more robust strategies for detection of unbalanced bidding, and enhanced education of practitioners to promote fair competition and ethical practices in awarding projects.Item The 'Massive, Little' Houses: 'Prefabs', A Solution for Informal Settlement Housing Crisis in South Africa! A Scoping Review(Construction Business and Project Management Group, University of Cape Town, 2024-08-27) Simbanegavi, Prisca; Weaich, Malcolm; Adewunmi, Yewande; Ndlovu, Pride; Gethe, FarananiUnlike most continents, Africa still grapples with urban informality, where housing shortages affect most people living in substandard conditions. Prefabricated housing (PH) presents an alternative option that provides a quicker and cheaper housing supply, although it currently lags behind demand. This paper examines whether 1) informal settlements can be upgraded using prefabricated/modular houses, 2) these housing types are desirable to occupants, and 3) alternative houses should receive as much emphasis and policy support as possible, particularly considering the challenges experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on a comprehensive literature survey utilising a scoping review methodology, the paper indicates that stakeholders such as developers, financiers, and occupants of prefabricated housing increasingly embrace PH despite its challenges. The literature unanimously agrees that substantial efforts are required to catalyse more investment in PH regarding further research, education, supply chain improvements, and enhanced communication and collaboration among industry stakeholders. Additionally, numerous research gaps need addressing, including in-depth examinations of PH's contextual feasibility and performance across different geographical areas. The paper recommends that South African governments adopt PH as an alternative housing solution, as it is faster and cheaper, thereby aiding in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal 11.Item The impact of inflation on house prices in South Africa: effects of COVID-19(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-07) Simbanegavi, Prisca; Weaich, Malcom; Mpofu, Bekithemba; Moobela, Cletus; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, RunmingThis study investigates the impact of inflation on house prices in South Africa, with a particular focus on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The research aims to elucidate the nature of the relationship between inflation and housing, and to determine how the pandemic has influenced this dynamic. Utilising monthly data from January 2010 to April 2022, the study employs Johansen cointegration and Granger causality tests to assess long-term and causal relationships, respectively. The findings confirm a positive long-term relationship between house prices and inflation, indicating that housing serves as an effective hedge against inflation. However, the results also reveal structural breaks in this relationship, with significant changes observed during the COVID-19 period. The Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) highlights short-run adjustments and the speed of return to equilibrium. This study provides valuable insights for investors and policymakers, demonstrating the resilience of housing investments during economic disruptions and underscoring the importance of considering regional and temporal factors in real estate investment strategies.