Ethiopian Institute of Architecture Building

Construction and City Development (EIABC)

5th year BSc Urban Planning and Design

Course title; Design of Urban and Regional Nodes)

Chair of Urban & Regional Planning

and Urban Design

Review

Name: Jibril Idris

Id Number: UGR /3195/12
Submission date: Dec 13, 2023
 Fifth Year BSc. in Urban Planning and Design Regular Program
Course Title: Urban and Regional Node Design
Reading Assignment 2: A summary report on “Urban and Regional Nodes and Their Dimension”

1. Growth Poles Theory and Growth Centers (Regional nodes)

1.1 The Growth Poles Theory

A growth pole is a geographic area that has a concentration of economic activity, such as an industrial
park or a port that can stimulate economic growth in surrounding areas.
The concept of growth poles was first introduced by French economist Francois Perroux in 1950. He argued
that economic growth is not uniform across a region but takes place around specific poles or clusters of
economic activity. The idea behind growth poles is that they can create a multiplier effect, where the growth
of one industry leads to the growth of other industries in the surrounding area. The intrinsic economic growth
and development of a region, according to the growth pole theory of economic development, can inspire
growth in nearby places. According to the hypothesis, the success of one or more industries or sectors in
one area may spur growth and development in other locations, producing a network of interconnected
regions that benefit from each other's advancement.

1.2 The Growth Centers

Growth centers, on the other hand, are urban areas that have been identified as having the potential for
growth and development. Growth centers were first introduced in India in 1970 as part of the country’s Five-
Year Plan. The idea behind growth centers is to promote balanced regional development by creating urban
centers that can provide employment opportunities and services to surrounding rural areas.
Growth centers, or regional nodes, are specific locations within a region that are targeted for development
and investment in order to stimulate economic growth and development. These growth centers are often
identified based on their strategic location, existing infrastructure, and potential for attracting businesses and
investment.

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 Fifth Year BSc. in Urban Planning and Design Regular Program
Course Title: Urban and Regional Node Design
Reading Assignment 2: A summary report on “Urban and Regional Nodes and Their Dimension”

2. The Major Components of Urban Node Design

The major components of urban node design include:

 Transportation and connectivity: Urban nodes are often strategically located at transportation hubs, such as
major intersections, transit stations, or ports. Designing efficient and accessible transportation networks
within and around the node is crucial for connecting people and goods to the area.
 Land-use development: Urban nodes often benefit from mixed-use development, which combines
residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within the same area. This creates a vibrant and dynamic
environment, where people can live, work, and socialize in close proximity.
 Infrastructure and utilities: Adequate infrastructure, including water, sewage, electricity, and
telecommunications, is essential for supporting the growth and functioning of urban nodes. Designing and
maintaining reliable infrastructure is crucial for attracting businesses and residents to the area.
 Public spaces and amenities: Designing attractive public spaces, such as parks, plazas, and pedestrian-
friendly streets, can enhance the livability and appeal of urban nodes. Access to amenities such as shops,
restaurants, and cultural facilities also contributes to the area's attractiveness.
 Economic development incentives: To encourage investment and business activity, urban node design may
include incentives such as tax breaks, grants, or streamlined permitting processes to attract and retain
businesses.
 Sustainability and resilience: Designing urban nodes with sustainability in mind, such as incorporating green
spaces, energy-efficient buildings, and resilient infrastructure, can help mitigate environmental impacts and
enhance the long-term viability of the area.
 Community engagement and social inclusion: Successful urban node design involves engaging with local
communities to ensure that their needs and aspirations are considered. This may involve creating
opportunities for affordable housing, community facilities, and social services

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 Fifth Year BSc. in Urban Planning and Design Regular Program
Course Title: Urban and Regional Node Design
Reading Assignment 2: A summary report on “Urban and Regional Nodes and Their Dimension”

3. Principles of Urban and Regional Node

These principles are aimed at creating sustainable, functional, and livable urban spaces that contribute to economic
growth and social well-being. Some of the key principles include

 Strategic location: Urban and regional nodes should be strategically located to serve as focal points for
economic, social, and cultural activities.
 Mixed-use development: Nodes should be designed to accommodate a mix of land uses, including
residential, commercial, and recreational facilities.
 Compact and walkable design: Emphasizing a compact and walkable urban form encourages pedestrian-
friendly environments, reducing reliance on cars and promoting physical activity.
 Sustainable and resilient design: Urban and regional nodes should be designed with sustainability and
resilience in mind, incorporating green infrastructure, energy-efficient buildings, and climate-resilient design
features to minimize environmental impact and enhance long-term viability.
 Economic vitality: Nodes should be designed to foster economic activity and investment, providing
opportunities for businesses to thrive and creating employment opportunities for residents. This may involve
creating a supportive regulatory environment, providing incentives for investment, and promoting
entrepreneurship.
 Community engagement and inclusivity: The development of urban and regional nodes should involve
meaningful engagement with local communities, ensuring that their needs and aspirations are considered.
 Connectivity: Urban and regional nodes should be linked to one another and to the surrounding areas
through effective transportation and communication networks
 Accessibility; Nodes should be accessible to all, including individuals with disabilities, through the provision
of accessible infrastructure and public spaces.

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 Fifth Year BSc. in Urban Planning and Design Regular Program
Course Title: Urban and Regional Node Design
Reading Assignment 2: A summary report on “Urban and Regional Nodes and Their Dimension”

4. Case Study of Regional Node in Ethiopia

Mekele City ;

Mekele is considered as one of a major regional node in Ethiopia due to its strategic location and economic
importance. The city is located at the crossroads of major transportation routes, linking Ethiopia with neighboring
countries such as Sudan and Eritrea. This has made Mekele an important hub for trade and commerce in the region.

Mekele, is the capital of the Tigray Region in northern Ethiopia, stands as a fascinating example of an urban regional
node. Nestled amidst the rugged peaks of the Ethiopian Highlands, Mekele boasts a rich history, a strategic location,
and a burgeoning economy, making it a crucial player in the development of the region.

Mekele's strategic location, growing population, and diverse economy have made it a major regional node in northern
Ethiopia. The city's role as a center for trade, education, and government has helped to drive its growth and
development, and it is likely to continue to play an important role in the region's economy and culture in the coming
years. Mekele's position at the crossroads of major trade routes has long been a source of its significance. Situated
close to the border with Eritrea and connected to the Red Sea by a network of roads, Mekele serves as a vital
gateway for trade and commerce. This strategic positioning has fueled the city's growth as a regional hub for
logistics, transportation, and communication.

Mekele city also serves as a hub for economic and social activities in the region, making urban planning essential for
ensuring efficient and equitable access to resources and services for its residents. As a major regional node, Mekele
city's urban planning efforts can have a significant impact on the overall development of the Tigray region. As
Ethiopia embarks on a journey of economic and social transformation, Mekele is poised to play a pivotal role. The
city's strategic location, historical significance, and burgeoning economy position it as a key driver of regional
development. By addressing its challenges and capitalizing on its opportunities, Mekele has the potential to become
a thriving center for trade, investment, and innovation, not only for the Tigray region but for the entire country.

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 Fifth Year BSc. in Urban Planning and Design Regular Program
Course Title: Urban and Regional Node Design
Reading Assignment 2: A summary report on “Urban and Regional Nodes and Their Dimension”

References

(https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1068/a160411)
(https://inlibrary.uz/index.php/development_economy/article/view/16338) (Nijkamp, P. (1973, November).

Growth centers in regional economic development. Regional and Urban Economics, 3(4), 411–412.
https://doi.org/10.1016/0034-3331(73)90033-x)

(Sotarauta, M. (2010, September 17). Regional development and regional networks: The role of regional
development officers in Finland. European Urban and Regional Studies, 17(4), 387–400.
https://doi.org/10.1177/0969776409352581) (Backlund, A. K., & Sandberg, K. (2002, February).

New Media Industry Development: Regions, Networks and Hierarchies - Some Policy Implications. Regional Studies,
36(1), 87–91. https://doi.org/10.1080/00343400120099898)