Assessing the Effectiveness of Densification Policies in Urban Planning

The provided content discusses research methodology and densification policies in the context of urban planning. It highlights various studies, articles, and reports on the topic, including those that explore the role of densification in addressing housing needs and promoting sustainable development. The content also touches upon the concept of softGIS knowledge revealing perceived residential environmental quality and its application in urban planning. Additionally, it mentions the importance of contextually sensitive urban densification and the need for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges faced by cities.

Densification of London Suburbs
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................3
1.1 Background............................................................................................................................3
1.2 Rationale of study..................................................................................................................3
1.3 Aim and objectives................................................................................................................3
1.4 Significance of study..............................................................................................................5
1.5 Structure of dissertation ........................................................................................................5
Chapter 2: Literature review............................................................................................................7
2.1 Concept of sustainable densification ....................................................................................7
2.2 Housing crisis in London ......................................................................................................7
3. Densification of outer London (policies).................................................................................8
4. Effectiveness of densification in satisfying housing needs of outer London...........................9
2.5. Sustainability of densification of outer London....................................................................9
6. Cost of densification of Outer London in context of Capital’s housing needs......................10
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY...........................................................................12
3.1 Multi- methodological Approach ........................................................................................12
3.2 Type of research ..................................................................................................................13
3.3 Background research............................................................................................................14
3.4 Case studies..........................................................................................................................14
3.5 Interviews.............................................................................................................................15
3.6 Data analysis........................................................................................................................17
3.7 Ethical considerations .........................................................................................................17
3.8 Limitations of research ......................................................................................................18
REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................19
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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
Residential density refers to the quantitative measurement of magnitude of land which is
occupied by population or development. The process of densification is applied to control
residential density for effective land use planing. It is helpful in migrating people from high
density areas to low one for promoting an respectable standard of environment for society. This
also facilitates in providing for a variety of suburban form to meet the demand of different
market sectors. However, the demand of housing project are continuous growing at rapid speed
due high population of capital. In this regard, focus is laid on Garden Cities along with their
capacities to fill the shortage of London Housing demand. Though suburban London is one of
the effective alternatives for high densities as it already has good transportation links. But the
main questions remain regarding how much areas of suburban can be densed along growth
appropriateness of transportation facilities (It’s time to get serious about suburban densification,
2015).
Housing has become the most stressful issue in London facet. Here, public services,
Londoners and Businesses are facing issue in context of higher cost of average London home
than average wage. The current scenario related to housing is costing real economy and human
aspect to a great extent because of painful situation Londoners. The population of capital is
expected to rise approximate a million in coming decade (Strategic options for london’s growth,
2016). However, report of Mayor reflects requirement of 50-60 thousand homes per year. At this
juncture, different options are discovered such as tall buildings, high dentistry town centers and
transport corridors as well as Estate redevelopment. Through, it is critical to provide quick
homes on right time by focusing on demand of increasing housing needs. It is because of
arrangement of infrastructure facilities, transportation and introduction of new rail lines etc.
Hence, suburban London or its outer areas are focused to build new homes in cost effective
manner (Home truths, 2014).
1.2 Rationale of study
The current study is being conducted to suitability of the suburban London as a key to
respond to housing needs and the effect of building at higher densities. For this purpose, study
assess effectiveness of suburban densification without affecting natural environment and creating
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high cost. Similarly, capacity of garden cities are also assessed through which housing shortage
of London can be filled. Furthermore, is very important to assess the cost of building at higher
density areas and pressure of people on current infrastructure facilities along with its impact on
residents as well as environment. Along with that, several options such as tall buildings, garden
cities and green belt, denisifying suburbs are crucial to meet requirement of housing project.
Owing to this, study has been carried out for analyzing all these options and cost as well as
densification capacity of Outer London on capital’s housing needs. Hence, the current
investigation is done to assess the effectiveness of outer areas of London/suburban are taken into
account so that need of capital housing can be fulfilled without drastically changing the nature of
London suburbs.
1.3 Aim and objectives
The aim and objectives of current study are formulated as follows that serves as the basis
for study through which study has been completed by selecting appropriate sources of
information.
Aim- To analyze sustainability of densification of outer London and its effectiveness in
satisfying the housing needs
.
Objectives
The objectives of study are formulated as follows in accordance with research aim which
aim to fulfill aim in specified time span. This aspect facilitates scholars in drawing valid
conclusion-
 To study sustainability of densification of London suburbs
 To analyses the effectiveness of densification in satisfying housing needs of outer
London
 To assess the cost of densification of Outer London in context of Capital’s housing needs To provide suggestions to meet Capital housing needs using densification
Research questions
The research questions are prepared as follow through which research get assistance for
completion of study in proper manner-
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Major research question- Is densification of Outer London a sustainable way to satisfy the
Capital’s housing needs and if so at what cost?
Secondary research questions
 Are London Suburbs suitable to accommodate high density developments and if so how
dense?
 Does suburban densification and increased population provide genuine and sustainable
opportunities to regenerate declining Outer London town centres and ageing suburban
housing stock?
 What are the implications of densification in the London suburban to meet Capital
housing needs?
 Can high density in London Suburbs be compatible with the character of this areas or
does it mean losing their identity and the reasons why people moved to those areas?
 What are implication of high density development in Outer London?
 How high density development in the suburban areas can be achieved?
 Are local residents taken into account when proposing higher density developments and
if so to what extend?
 Does London Planning Authorities regulate towers in Outer London areas or increasing
trend is good way of densification in these areas.
1.4 Significance of study
The study on impact of densification of Outer London on capital’s housing needs plays
important role for entire capital (London). It will be helpful for government and responsible
authority of London to find the suitability of options available for desinsifation. Also, it sheds
light on appropriateness of suburban London in context of transport network and capability of
existing building. Furthermore, how much areas can be densed will also be covered along with
assessment on cost and other related aspects. It facilitates to form valid suggestions in the light of
densification of London. Apart from this, study is helpful for scholars who are doing thesis on
the same topic.
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1.5 Structure of dissertation
The structure of current dissertation has been presented which consists of five different
chapters. Each of these chapters contribute major part of study which results in gaining the
outcome in an effectual manner- Chapter 1 Introduction: It is the most important chapter of study which provides detail
overview regarding impact of increasing population on capital housing project. It enables
the researchers to adopt effective methodology to be applied for drawing valid
conclusion. Furthermore, chapter of introduction consists of background, rationale and
significance of the study. These topics give overview regarding study which is being
carried out. Chapter 2 Literature review: This is the second chapter of dissertation that deals with
secondary information related to the study. It is based on different sources like journals,
books and online articles through which the researcher develops strong base to achieve
the aim of the study in an effectual manner. Chapter 3 Research methodology: The chapter of research methodology shed light on
different methodologies used in study such sources of data collection and techniques
applied for analyzing the gathered information. In addition to this, detail related to
research design, philosophy as well as research approach is provided along with detail
discussion. Chapter 4 Data analysis: This is the fourth and foremost chapter which focuses upon
techniques applied for evaluating collected primary or secondary data. Here, research
gives rationale behind selection of appropriate techniques. Furthermore, appropriate
techniques are applied for analyzing the collected detail in context of research aim and
objectives.
 Chapter 5 Conclusion and recommendations: This is the last chapter of dissertation
which provides conclusive form of information along with recommendation through
which improvement can be take in the light of densification in London.
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CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Concept of sustainable densification
General definition of densification is to increase the use of space both horizontally and
vertically in a particular area. In simple words, Densification is known as a process of increasing
the density of something, however, it can also be termed as compaction. The concept of
densification is carried out to fulfill the housing need of people in the areas where population is
continuously growing. It is generally proposed as a solution to the excessive land consumption
and development of areas so as to meet the housing needs of individuals. To the view point of
(Gordon and Travers, 2010), cities with high density and mixed use are usually promoted to
support sustainable development. However, the fact always remains unclear what is actually
needed to make huge density of an area while consideration of alleged benefits with
sustainability.
Sustainable Development
According to Bowie (2015) sustainable development is the procedure to develop houses
without affecting natural environment and creating higher cost. In order to ensure sustainable
development, Brownfield is considered as the first option through which pressure on greenfield
land is reduced. At this juncture, existing land are used in order to reduce additional expenses on
different other facilities such as creating new transport network etc.
Urban sprawl
Urban sprawl is another aspect which refines process of migration from populated town
to cities with low densities by covering more and more rural land. There are number of causes
for which London requires to use Urban sprawl. It consists of Lower Land Rates, Improved
infrastructure and growth in population. For this purpose, number of options are available in
context of densification such as Greenbelt, Garden Cities and Transport Corridor as well as Tall
buildings. The tall buildings of outer London can be used by enhancing their limit of capacity.
This aspect is considered as sustainable development under which suburban London has good
transport networks and other related facilities. It can be critically evaluated that how much part
can be densed and whether transport network is appropriate or not. Owing to this, for building
new homes it is crucial to include all the selected aspects rather focusing on one or two.
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On the other hand, Brownfield's 2/3 part of land was already developed for housing
purpose where nearly 15000 km roads has been used for transport. Other areas are utilized in two
centres and schools as well as hospitals. Hence, the first task is remove something places from
available options in order to make it more densed. It can be critically evaluated that densification
in brownfield will cost high in term of transport. Apart from this, taller buildings is also the
effective option through which number of homes can be increased. On a critical note most of the
families like to live in a tower and transnational housing are preferred by them. But, it will be
helpful to ensure sustainable development as need of creating new railway lines will be lapsed.
Green Belt
Green Belt the most important areas of London which provide relatively less access to
public. This covers four times as much land as the build up areas of London. All parts of this
location remain fully protected as they are of great value and consists of natural beauty.
However, Green Belt is considered as the effective method among the available option for
offering quick homes. Furthermore, cost of Green Belt is relatively low, so it can offer homes at
with rapid speed without any much delay. Apart from this, infrastructure facilities for the same
can be arranged effective in affordable price. A counter argument might be that effective
mechanisms are required to uplift in land values. The same is applicable at the time of available
infrastructure facilities. This can be possible with the help of distribution of housing needs.
2.2 Housing crisis in London
Although London is a very competitive and successful city, the depths of the housing
crisis are evident. Many see this a threat to the supremacy of London over other cities and a main
possible cause of its failure. In addition, during last five year government sold off land for total
110000 homes. However, it is anticipated 2% of those homes were built and 9% are pending for
permission of planning (Strategic options for london’s growth, 2016.). It reflects that housing
demand is not fulfilled because of higher demand of low supply. In near future, capital’s
population is going to increase by 1 million people till the end of 2021. Therefore, it is quite
difficult to meet the housing need of increased population and thus, the situation is unsustainable.
However, further challenges in relation to price inflation have been evident due to principles of
supply and demand. In the investigation carried out by (Bolleter and Ramalho, 2014), demand
side is evident with continue prices soar and people of London are struggling to find a suitable
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and affordable place to stay or live. On the other hand, supply side is evident with declining as
London is behind in the way to build house and satisfy the resident’s needs. The author further
revealed that in case, if this trend continues then it will weaken competitiveness of London. To
flourish business continuously in London and to remain competitive in the world’s economy, it is
needed to build more homes and at more affordable prices so as to support rising population and
labour force. To resolve the housing problems of London, it becomes crucial to make some
radical changes in some major areas as only marginal change is not going to deliver the step
alteration in house building needs of London (Home truths, 2014). Londoners have to be
provided with homes this decade and the next so it has to focus on creating a climate on order to
conducive and encourage more investment in housing development. Demand of house building
is increasing due to raising births and people are living longer. These reasons have increased the
density of population (Bowie, 2015). At many time, London is seen to be crowded, however, it
cannot be said as a high density city in accordance with global standards. To meet the housing
needs of London, it becomes crucial to assess the long-term population forecast as well as to
focus on outer London borough density and make record levels. High level of density can bring
out many benefits which may sustain businesses as well as services some agglomeration benefits.
The biggest example of such benefits is West End and City, as after densification, there can be
seen a rich mix of economic activities and employment (Bowie, 2015).
3. Densification of outer London (policies)
Outer London policies are set of key procedures established by the government of UK in
order to ensure the development and meet the housing need of individual living in London.
According to the OLC (Outer Commission London) and review of London plan, major focus is
laid on specific aspects such as accommodating growth of London and Removing barriers which
are faced in delivering housing projects. Other aspect covered in the plan is effective
arrangement for better coordination of strategic policy and infrastructure investment across
South East of England (Redefining Density, 2015). In addition to this, Green Belt policy of
London reflects that supply of homes will be availed in areas of high demand.
National Planning policy
Here, National Planning policy proposed some changes regarding deliver of new homes
(National Planning Policy, 2016). It includes affordable housing, enhancing densities of
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commuter hubs and assisting the deliver of starter homes. However, new buyers are offered
homes at low cost (Changes to National Planning Policy on Housing, 2016). Similarly,
commuters hub are targeted for residential density under which individual can have their own
home even at low cost. The national planning policy also consider development of brownfield
land in the Green Belt for offering starter homes. Neighborhood plans are used to allocate starter
homes under small scale sties in Green Belt. Not only this but homes delivery time will also
shortened for catering requirement of individual housing. Apart from this, settlement has been
done according to housing delivery tests through which performance of project can be assessed
in the light of targets.
Housing density policy in London
Housing density policy in London consists of several aspects such as acceptable density
areas, ways to density along with architecture of the same. According to this policy homes are
formed on the basis of per hectare and habitable rooms per hectare. Furthermore, this policy
defines density ranges for different suitable areas along with public transport accessibility
(PTAL). For this purpose, three neighborhood types were defined such as central, urban and
suburban.
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(Source:Redefining Density, 2015)
According to the above table, it can be seen that how land of different segment swill be
utilized in order to ensure sustainable development. This aspect support government proceeding
the work in structured manner.
Reforming planning policy
The reforming density policy and density matrix play important role in London as this
provide immense support to alternative to the London plan. This policy give proper assistance
for desnsification in specific locations such as town centres, intensification areas and large sites.
Under this, specific constraint of parts of London are considered such as conservation of heritage
assets. However, whatever part is taken into account then that must be judged according to
different criteria like social infrastructure needs, strategic development, transport accessibility
and location (Redefining Density, 2015).
4. Effectiveness of densification in satisfying housing needs of outer London
According to Alexander (2014) sustainable densification is important for meeting housing
needs of outer London. Under this, all parties associated with project will get benefit in term of
optimum utilization of natural resources such as Land. He argued that process of densification
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Illustration 1: Housing density policy in London

begin with search margin in existing building for meeting requirement for homes. People having
need of home are allotted the same in outer London. This is because outer London has greater
opportunities for providing homes to increasing population. Here, public transport and other
basic facilities are provide for individual so they can easily get houses in cost effective manner.
However, government get the best deal by utilizing limited land through which expectations of
individual living in London can be met in an effective manner.
Densification will cost higher for government because of making houses in existing building
by enhancing their capacities. But the process of providing basic facilities becomes quite
convenient as population can access to public transport. Furthermore, green spaces and other
related natural resources will also be saved effectively.
2.5. Sustainability of densification of outer London
To the view point of Johnston and et.al. (2016) sustainability is a major concerned area of
densification in which expansion of outer London areas can be focused on sustainable
development of city. There was a Howard’s proposal that aimed to promote low density urban
development which was further laid out major principles of sustainability. Densification of the
area has affected layout of early 21st century British suburbs which initiated a solution for
urbanization problems faced within Inner London, specially to those areas in which density was
equated with poverty, overcrowding and low social status.
Sustainability of densification of outer London is associated with many factors such as
use of land, green spaces and gardens as well as transport system of country. Here, the most
common fact is that population of London is growing year by year where it is expected to reach
10 million till 2030 and by 2050, it will be nearly 11.5 million. It reflects that housing demand is
increasing due to higher proportion of population in nation or city. According to this, there is a
need to make 49000 new homes in the present and future time (2025). As per the current
scenario, different means can be adopted to increase housing provision for London. The first one
is related to enhancement of densities in two centers where focus will be laid on good public
transport provision. Furthermore, suburban housing will be renewed for the purpose of fulfilling
expectation of general community. It will be cost effective aspect under which all the basic
amenities will be provided to individual without harming external environment (Kong, 2012).
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Growth in outside areas of London will be ensured for sustainability aspect of
densification where green spaces of city will be preserved effectively. At the same time,
sustainable development of transport is also necessary where different factors such as study, shop
and play as well as living place of people are considered. It can be critically evaluated that
modernization has reduced the need of travel to a great extent. This is because technological
development assists many of people to travel less and deliver good quality of products as well as
services at home. However, London is not a dense city in comparison to other countries like
Madrid and Paris (Touati‐Morel, 2015). This city contains number of areas related to green
space, water and Green Belt but many parts of the capital have good transport facilities. On
critical note, low housing density of London creates issue in making effective project and
meeting housing need of people.
Major opportunities of densification is in London where transport facilities and effective
homes can be made to resolve current issues related to capital housing projects. Hence, the focus
is laid on building homes by making optimum utilization of limited land. Here, better use of land
can be seen in terms of enhancing household building to make just a tenth of these one million
additional homes required in next 10 year (Kyttä, and et.al. 2013). Then, it will be considered
that house building target can be reached to 52000 new homes in every year.
6. Cost of densification of Outer London in context of Capital’s housing needs
According to the leading commenters of the society, it has been felt that the increasing
density has threatened London in a wider way which is significantly indicating towards the cost
of business. On the other hand, fulling individual housing need is very critical without increasing
supply of commercial space and housing. In addition to that, there can be seen upward pressure
on prices due to lack of supply of houses and continuous growth in population. The author
further revealed that if global players can afford to buy or rent houses, it can also be threat of
densification (Bagnato, A., 2011). Through, some inner areas are also there for meeting housing
needs but outer London is very important for meeting excessive demand. It is because to ensure
sustainable development of houses for maintaining quality life and providing necessary facilities
for individual.
Within London, there have been found that outer areas/ boroughs are considerably
getting the most out of the development. However, number of policies have to be changed for
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supporting development and it is needed to tougher management of assess the impacts of
development (Kyttä and et.al. 2013). In general there is high cost of densification because of
requirement of more infrastructure and loss of businesses for getting houses. Along with that,
movement of businesses into the inner borough and negative impact on green spaces because of
increasing capacity of transport network. However, the life style associated with suburban
context is important cost associated with densfication of London. Nonetheless, local authorities
have greater powers to deal such so that residents need to feel secure about their quality of life.
The governments and local authorities must be ensured about penalties to compliance with rules
on noise and general disturbance which can be resolved. Alexander (2014) explained that policy
reform must be provided residents with some tangible and valuable such as sustained
development of new local infrastructure son as to secure support from the local public.
Infrastructure investment and development may reduce the cost of densification which
should be less problematic to deliver. The government reforms can make real difference to
planning and catering for outer London’s densification so as to reduce the cost.
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CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research methodology is a major aspect of an investigation which includes the tools and
methods which are going to be used for answering the research questions. The investigation
herewith is going to make use of different methods of research which are suitable to reach the
objective of the study (Saunders and et. al., 2010). The aim of present investigation is to analyze
sustainability of densification of outer London and its effectiveness in satisfying the housing
needs, therefore range of research tactics are used which are mentioned in the present section
along with suitable justifications. This part of study includes research approach, type of research
as well as data collection and analysis method which are backed with suitable justification. The
ethical consideration taken into account, during the investigation along with limitations of study
are explained in the present section.
3.1 Multi- methodological Approach
Multi methodological approach is one in which different method are used to reach the
objectives of the investigation. This involves use of more than one method of collecting data
collection in research study. The approach allows researcher to conduct the investigation in
different ways to answer the research question in a specific manner while gathering information
from range of sources. Mixed methods research is used where it is needed to mix qualitative
and quantitative data, methods, methodologies, and/or paradigms to reach the objectives
(Saunders, and et. al., 2007). In respect with the present investigation, multi methodological
approach is so as to draw valid conclusions that would defiantly help us to understand the
policies and politics surrounding the way local planning authorities deal approach high density
developments in the suburban context. However, it also helps in identifying the impact of
densification and related policies to well-established areas. While following the multi
methodological approach for the present investigation, this investigation is divided into three
major sections that are further related to collection of different type of data or evidence (Kothari,
2011). These three methods include Background research, Case studies and Interview with
relevant involved parties/stakeholders. In this way, it can be said that a triangulation methods is
used for the investigation in which is the combination of methodologies in the study of the same
phenomenon is applied in the present investigation. The form of research method used herewith
is called as convergent methodology and often said as a mixed methodology. The rationale
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behind using cited approach is that it considered as a best way to give a clear picture of the
current situation. In addition, it reduces uncertainty surrounding the present investigation relation
to collection of data or information. Here, the main area is of collecting data for the present
investigation and the use of multi methodological approach allows investigator to gather wide
range of data while using quantitative and qualitative methods.
3.2 Type of research
On the research world, there are used two major types of research such as qualitative
and quantitative. Qualitative Research is often considered as exploratory research which is used
to gain understanding in relation to underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations behind the
study. The use of qualitative research type is use to make insights into the problems and it also
helps researchers in developing ideas or hypotheses. On the other hand, Quantitative type of
research is associated with collection of numerical form like as statistics, percentages, etc
(Silverman, 2010). From the point of view of the investigators , the use of quantitative method is
suitable in the areas where by problem of the study is to be quantify by way of generating
numerical data which may be further transformed into useful statistics. In addition to that,
quantitative research type is used in the studies so as to quantify attitudes, opinions, and
behaviors, from large sample population. Here, the present investigation is aimed at to analyze
sustainability of densification of outer London and its effectiveness in satisfying the housing
needs, therefore, it is needed to collect the data from both the perspective. Hence, it can be said
that both the types of research were useful to be considered in the investigation. In respect to the
present investigation both qualitative and quantitative type is used. The rationale behind using
qualitative type of research is to collect the sufficient data on densification and the impact of
such on satisfying London housing needs along with addressing the policy initiatives of
government. Along with this, the study requires to make use of structural data which is all
through possible to be collected by following a qualitative methods of research. The evidence of
qualitative research is to be seen the literature review section. In addition to that, quantitative
research type is used to collect the responses from stakeholders and other involved parties so
there responses which are gathered in numerical format can be analyzed and carried out which
specific findings. The
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Quantitative data have been collected using a semi structured face-to-face interview for which
narrow question are expected to be answered in numerical format (Singh, 2010). The rationale
behind using quantitative and qualitative research type is the Multi methodological approach
which is used for the present investigating, hence, in the present investigation both the type of
research methods are evident to be complementing each other rather than seeing them as
confronting research methods.
3.3 Background research
Background research refers to the procedure for gaining deep understanding related to
topic under investigation. This provides overview for designing and understanding experiment
thereby strong base is prepared for conducting study in successful manner (Kothari, 2011). For
this purpose, at first researcher recognize key words of the dissertation such as densification and
its concepts along with its use in ensuring well being of capital of UK. However, other key
words like suburbs and sustainability are taken into account whereby it becomes easy to apply
effective methodology to reach at aim of the study. However, scholar for conducting background
research will further search for information needed to complete entire project.
Owing to this, previous studies will be referred to collect more information. Thus,
sources like articles, books and other related material has been accessed for gathering detail
related to densification in the suburban context. It assisted researcher in accumulating facts
regarding planning policy documents at regional, national and local level. This aspect facilitates
to reflect upon effectiveness of densification in outer London. In addition to this, different
secondary sources are accessed in order to collect more and more quantitative data in context of
implementation approach of densification in suburban areas. This is also helpful for analyzing
study gap which can be easily removed by incorporation of appropriate primary and secondary
information (Bhattacharyya, 2009). Therefore, background research plays important role in
assessing detail information or any reliable facts of study which contribute towards towards
providing proper solution for which study is being conducted.
3.4 Case studies
Case studies are referred in research for assessing a particular situation which shed light
on different alternative solution which could be adopted by corporation or country. The method
of case study is helpful to draw real world situation in accordance with testing of theoretical
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model. By applying case study conclusion is drawn as per the usefulness of scientific theories
and models in real world (Crowther and Lancaster, 2012). The present study on densification of
London applies case studies for gathering data and assessing effectiveness of selected approach
for problem related to capital housing need. At this juncture, four case studies are referred which
consists of different areas from local authority. However, focus has been laid of selection of
areas from each region such as North, South, East and West. All these selected areas cover
specific features such as social, economic and physical that aids to resolve increasing housing
need in capital. Many of the cases are related to those areas where chance of densification are
higher within town center. Some of them consists of Opportunity Areas or Intensification Areas.
The current dissertation includes following areas of study-
 Area of study (London Borough of Barnet – North London)
Inglis Barracks - Mill Hill East
 Area of study (London Borough of Kingston – South London)
Charter Quay - Charter Quay was an under-used and unsightly former industrial riverside site
located in the historic town center of Kingston-upon-Thames.
 Area of study ( London Borough of Waltham Forest – East London)
Walthamstow Arcade
 Area of study (London Borough of Ealing – West London)
Dickens Yard
These above mentioned areas are considered for development where personnel or general
community can easily meet their housing demand. However, future targets can be met effectively
by searching opportunities for effective densification in these particular locations. These areas
are considered utmost for the purpose of sustainable denisification so that green spaces etc can
be preserved without affecting beauty of city. It is also helpful in reserving natural resources with
optimum utilization of limited land by making house in public transport areas etc (Fiegen,
2010).
3.5 Interviews
The collection of primary data is also the important task for any study as it support
researcher in gathering appropriate data in the light of research aim and objectives (Jackson,
2010). There are several methods for collecting primary information such as questionnaire,
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observation and interview. Here, questionnaire method consists of both open and closed ended
questions through which respondents provide their views to fulfill purpose of study in right
manner. On the other hand, interview is other aspect for collecting primary information where
respondents are provided open ended questionnaire (Kuada, 2012). The interviewers or
researcher ask questions from respondents which in turn responses are recorded in sheet. It
serves as the basis to analyze gathered data in right manner. It reflects that interview method has
been applied for present dissertation on densification of London. For this purpose, views of
residents are taken into account that aid to provide information related to convenience such as
transportation, basic amenities etc. This process support construction industry as well s
government to address issues which are being faced by general community. However, different
parties associated with interview process are listed as follows-
 GLA
 Local Authority (x4, one of each case study area)
 Residents/Residents Associations (Mill Hill Residents Association, Walthamstow
Residents Association; Chartered Quay Residents Association, Save Ealings Centre
Association.
 Architect/NLA/Mayor Advisory Group (possible interviewees – Peter Murray/Sunand
Prasad)
The above mentioned parties' view have been taken for accomplishing purpose of study.
Here, areas selected for studies are also considered at the time of conducting interview process.
Under this scholar assess exact information related to scope of densification and its sustainability
aspect for London. Here, research will use inductive approach while collecting interview
(Ihantola and Kihn, 2011). Here basis will be background or past record or situation of capital
housing need in city. This aspect proves to be effective in developing strong base for research
issue. Accordingly, it becomes possible to provide valid recommendation for sustainable
densification in London.
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3.6 Data analysis
3.7 Ethical considerations
The success of an investigation is basically based on the ethical norms that are to be
considered at the time of conducting a study. A researcher should always concerned about the
ethical norms there must be followed during study. The major issue associated with the
investigation is of lack of knowledge in relation to the research topic and the interest of
researcher in the field. Here, to overcome the present issue, researcher had gained sufficient
knowledge about the investigation that makes it easier to understand each and every aspect of the
study (Franklin, 2012). To attain the objective of the investigation, it is also easier to ethical
issues such as collection of data. The data used for the analysis must be authentic and reliable.
For the present investigation both the data collection method have been used such as primary and
secondary, hence, it is crucial to collect in an ethical manner. In the collection of primary
investigation, participates of the research are previously informed about the purpose and
objective of the investigation and there permission is taken prior to take responses from them.
The respondent of the investigation are asked about their consent to be taken part in the
investigation, and not a single forceful method is used to take their responses.
In addition to that, transparency has been maintained throughout the investigation. Here,
it is to be noticed that the respondents of the study are provided with an option to leave the
investigation if they want. Confidentiality aspects is maintained so that barriers can be reduced.
The data gathered from the participants have been kept confidential and not a single their party
was allowed to take unethical benefits from the investigation (Bhattacharyya, 2009). However, in
the secondary data collation method, authentic and reliable sources have been used to collect
data. The authorised online sites are used to take out secondary data for the research.
Throughout the investigation, the issue of plagiarism is taken into consideration and the
information included in the study is property cited by the relevant authors. Hence, plagiarism
aspect is considered by the investigator to overcome ethical issues. Overall, it can be said that
information collated from primary and secondary sources are used to attain the purpose of the
investigation.
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3.8 Limitations of research
Every research is followed by some of the limitations which affect its completion process to
a great extent. The current study on densification of London is based on both primary and
secondary information. The limitation of present dissertation are explained as follows- Prolonged process-Completion of entire study in less time span is not at all possible for
researcher because of inclusion of several activities. The present study uses case studies
which take relatively extensive time hence overall time allotted for dissertation cound
enhanced. However, Gantt chart was followed to resolve the same issue by adjusting time
for each research activities. In addition to this, primary data collected from interview
process where some of the respondents might not be able to provide time. Owing to this,
appropriate time was decided for them and then procedure for interview has been
completed (Flick, 2011). Insufficient secondary information-The information collected from secondary sources
relies on different alternatives such as articles, books and other material. The issues was
faced while collecting information related to London policy. This is because appropriate
facts and figures were not provided. Owing to this, it might be possible that some of the
important information are missed out. On the other hand, some of the secondary sources
were restricted to use as access was not provided. Though they were important for study
but their access created issues at the time of gathering important information.
 Baisness of researcher-The interview process has been completed in accordance with
own judgment of researcher. However, it was done so as to bring out appropriate
outcome for the study (Franklin, 2012). On the other hand, it is possible that researcher
may be biased in selecting sample size. Furthermore, efforts were made to reduce the
limitation for completion of study in right manner.
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