Abstract
M.Tech. (Operations Management)
There is generally interconnectedness amongst the complex urban challenges that are being experienced in most developing countries. Of particular note are the spatially fragmented, inefficient and ineffective transport systems that characterize South African cities. In response, innovative urban public transport systems that seek to improve urban mobility and encourage mixed-use development and activity corridors have emerged. These innovations also seek to resolve the three apartheid vices of unemployment, poverty and inequality thus enhancing socio-economic transformation within South African cities. The impact of recent innovative urban transport systems in South African cities have not been documented adequately, particularly their influence on the formation of economic opportunities. This study therefore aimed to examine the impact of public transport infrastructure investments on urban mobility and socio-economic transformation using the City of Tshwane as the case of study. A mixed research approach, which consisted of case study, qualitative and quantitative methodology, was adopted and questionnaires, interviews and observations were applied to gather and analyse data. Study findings revealed that the innovations have resulted in some commendable developments within the city of Tshwane. However, the effectiveness of policy and legislative interventions and subsequent investments on spatial and socio-economic transformation are still lagging behind and need to be strengthened. Lack of stakeholder cooperation throughout the planning process, implementation and operation of the innovative urban public transport system chain has hindered prospects of achieving multi-modal and integrated public transport networks that inspire socio-economic opportunities as desired. The socio-economic transformation agenda still needs to adopt and use new developments such as urban public transport systems, to facilitate the inclusion of the poor through business growth and creation of an enabling environment for small-scale entrepreneurs and informal traders. Accordingly, the study recommends an integrated approach to innovative urban transport systems and socio-economic transformation in South African Cities. Collective strategy formulation for an integrated public transport network, alignment of government investments and adoption of innovative approaches to design stations as hotbeds for socio-economic prosperity should characterize investments in public transport infrastructure. The study concludes by developing a model or framework for an integrated approach to Innovative Urban Transport Planning and Socio-economic Transformation.