Investigating the impact of urban physical structure on public space and liveability: a case of the town square in Mirigama

Abstract

Mirigama, situated in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, is rapidly evolving with the expansion of the Central Expressway. Serving as a transit hub between Colombo and surrounding regional towns, it has experienced accelerated industrial growth and urbanization. However, this growth remains largely unplanned, leading to congestion, inadequate infrastructure, environmental degradation, and disconnected public spaces that diminish liveability and safety. This study explores how the urban physical structure of Mirigama’s town square influences public space use, connectivity, and overall liveability. Focusing on the context of a secondary town, it identifies critical urban challenges, community needs, and opportunities for sustainable design interventions. The findings reveal that the town square’s spatial form directly affects social interaction, accessibility, and perceived safety. The research highlights the potential of secondary towns as testing grounds for environmentally conscious and transit-oriented development. By offering context-specific insights and a transferable framework, it contributes to ongoing policy and urban design discussions on inclusive and sustainable urban transformation.