Analysis of the relationship between urban morphology and urban vitality in small cities Sri Lanka - special reference to Kaluthara town

Abstract

Urban vitality refers to the quality of an urban area that can attract a diverse range of people due to the presence of numerous activities and opportunities. Jane Jacobs, in her seminal work from 1961, emphasized the importance of diverse and interconnected human activities and public spaces in creating a vibrant city life. In summary, urban morphology is a complex and interdisciplinary field that investigates the physical shape of cities and how they evolve over time. Different scholars emphasize various key elements, such as streets, blocks, plots, building types, and plan units, as essential components for analyzing urban form. The interdisciplinary nature of urban morphology allows researchers to approach the study of cities from multiple perspectives and contribute to a deeper understanding of their development and characteristics. There are many research on how urban morphology impact the urban vitality of urban areas. It's evident that a well-designed built environment, with attention to factors like land use, accessibility, density, and public spaces, can enhance the vitality and quality of urban life. The research is aims to investigate the relationship between urban morphology and urban vitality in small cities in the Sri Lankan context. This is an important endeavor, as small and medium-size cities often make up a significant portion of the urban population worldwide and play a crucial role in urbanization and service production in specific countries, such as Sri Lanka. The research shows that how density, land use diversity, pedestrian movements, and the availability of open / cultural spaces and transit stops collectively shape the vitality of small cities in Sri Lanka. To enhance urban vitality, it might be important to explore ways to encourage a broader range of activities, both during the daytime and at night, and to create environments that facilitate urban vitality.