In order to truly grasp the notion of spatial integration, one has to understand all the other categories of integration, as they are interlinking and often overlap in terms of implementation and outcome. Integration in low-income housing delivery projects is a multi-dimensional aspect and can be categorized as spatial integration (already discussed), economic integration, functional integration, social integration, integrated process of delivery and an integral response to needs (Charlton, 2003).
4.2.1 Economic integration
Economic segregation refers to the process whereby people are spatially segregated in accordance with their economic class. An economically integrated community consists of a neighborhood which accommodates a diversity of income groups. Beyond this, it also has economic activities
44 and opportunities which are on different scales. Provision for urban agriculture, small-scale trading, markets, entrepreneurial centers and commercial activity in close proximity to residents should be made to achieve an economically integrated community (Van Schalkwyk, 2012).
Economic integration results in an increased level of employment opportunities and local buying power. Residents are able to generate their own income within their living spaces which ultimately results in a community that is economically viable (Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, 2007).
4.2.2 Functional integration
Another aspect with respect to integration has to do with the nature and purpose of the development itself. The development should not be mono-functional or isolated. A fully functional residential area contains facilities and amenities and ultimately creates living and working areas which are interactive (Van Schalkwyk, 2012). Functional integration ensures that a range of services, opportunities and facilities are available and accessible to residents which influence the overall welfare of people. This includes, but is not limited to, integration of medical, education, agriculture, transportation and communication opportunities. An integrated approach is one which consists of proper co-ordination between the social and economic activities of people. Such co- ordination is highly dependent on location as location determines accessibility (Phadke, 2006).
Functional integration entails a development being multi-functional. The aim of functional integration is that development should cater for all dimensions of activity such as cultural, educational and economic activities which essentially creates an area that is a lively and interactive space. Functional integration results in a range of services and amenities being available and accessible to people resident in a community (Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, 2007). There are many ways in which functional integration can be achieved, depending on the surrounding circumstances of each area of development. The implementation of mixed-use, higher densities, infilling, and the co-location of living, working, service and recreational opportunities can all contribute to development being functionally integrated (Van Schalkwyk, 2012).
Several benefits emerge as a result of the implementation of functional integration in low-income housing development. With functional integration incorporated in housing development, residents are able to access goods and services without the need to travel far distances, opportunities for the
45 generation of income within the local space are created, financial and environmental costs are decreased and efficient provision for infrastructure and other services are made (Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, 2007).
4.2.3 Social integration
Social integration refers to the broad range of social relationships that exist and the extent to which individuals are able to participate in these relationships (Brissette et al, 2000). Phadke (2006) and Abbott (2001) state that social integration involves the facilitation of the creation of a vibrant, diverse population mix in a community which consists of all different population groups and considers the various cultures, ages, abilities and income groups of the population. These aspects must be taken into consideration during the planning and development of low-income housing.
Similarly to functional integration, there are various ways to achieve social integration. The provision of mixed-use housing, different land tenure options, variation of dwellings and financing options can all contribute to achieving social integration. Strategically locating business centres, markets and institutions and creating multi-purpose community centres can also contribute to achieving social integration in a community (Van Schalkwyk, 2012). There is an array of benefits that arise as a result of the implementation of social integration. These include enhanced social interactions between people, the creation of understanding and tolerance of one another, the overcoming of differences between different groups as well as the enhancing of human resources and capacities in the community (Phadke, 2006).
4.2.4 Integrated delivery processes
The sixth type of integration applies to the process of delivery. The involvement of all stakeholders in the delivery of low-income housing projects is vital. Each neighbourhood’s unique historical and political background as well as its own meaning may however affect the ability or degree of involvement by stakeholders and their respective contributions and responsibilities in the delivery process (Charlton, 2003).
In order to achieve integrated outcomes, co-ordination in terms of directives, resources and targets in respect of housing projects are required from government officials. Absence of inter-
46 governmental partnerships may result in poorly aligned departmental budgets and spending, resulting in disintegrated mono-functional developments (Royston, 2003).
4.2.5 An integral response to beneficiary needs
Integration as an appropriate response to the needs of residents of low-income housing entails housing development being developed in accordance with the specific necessities of each of the beneficiaries. In other words, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It is based on the notion that all people are different, encountering different problems, and therefore housing development should respond to those individual needs of the resident population (Charlton, 2003). In order to meet the varying needs of residents, beneficiaries should be part of the development process whereby their views are considered prior to the construction phase. It goes without saying that it would be highly unreasonable and unaffordable for each unit in a low-income housing project to be built differently depending on the individual needs of its various beneficiaries. However the holistic contribution of beneficiaries can be assessed to attempt to develop housing which would be beneficial and appropriate for its residents.