INTRA-URBAN DISTANCE VARIATIONS IN PERCEIVED 20-MINUTE NEIGHBOURHOOD FEATURES: A KRUSKAL-WALLIS ANALYSIS WITHIN AN 800m WALKABLE CATCHMENT IN BAYAN BARU, PENANG, MALAYSIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21837/pm.v24i43.2083Keywords:
20-minute neighbourhood, Walkability, Age Factors, Intra-Urban Distance, Perceived Accessibility, Kruskal-Wallis AnalysisAbstract
The 20-Minute Neighbourhood (20MN) has emerged as a prominent urban planning framework aimed at promoting accessibility, sustainability and local living. However, its application often assumes a uniform walking threshold, potentially overlooking variations in mobility needs, environmental perceptions, and demographic characteristics. This study examines how perceived neighbourhood performance varies across age groups and distance bands within an 800 m walkable catchment in a compact urban context. Using questionnaire data and non-parametric statistical analysis, the study evaluates six 20MN domains: safe, accessible and connected mobility; local economy and daily needs; essential services and community destinations; climate resilience and environmental comfort; high-quality public realm and open spaces; and housing diversity and affordability. Kruskal–Wallis tests identify significant differences in perceived neighbourhood features across distance bands, while age-group comparisons show limited variation across the six domains. The findings indicate that spatial proximity plays a stronger role than age in shaping perceived 20MN performance within the study area, although demographic characteristics remain relevant for inclusive neighbourhood planning. This study contributes to context-sensitive 20MN planning by highlighting the importance of considering intra-neighbourhood spatial variations when evaluating accessibility and neighbourhood quality in compact tropical urban environments.
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