Rethinking the efficacy of spatial development plans in Zimbabwe: A case of Masvingo Province

Spatial development plans can be vital tools to guide spatial development in rapidly urbanising towns and cities in the South. Yet, their efficacy in guiding spatial development in Zimbabwe's volatile environment is increasingly questioned and remains little understood, at least empirically. This paper assesses whether master and local plans positively affect spatial development in cities, towns, and growth centres in Masvingo province. We found that spatial developments undertaken without the guidance of master and local plans are chaotic and result in disorderly settlements. However, the same is evident in urban centres with operative master and local plans. Unplanned settlements have emerged as pressure is mounting on local authorities to provide building land and housing for the ever-increasing urban populations. The blueprint nature and the cost of preparing spatial development plans have discouraged local authorities with intentions to prepare such plans and triggered the need to question their efficacy. Even for local authorities with operative master and local plans: the disregard of these plans by political and economic elites and the urban poor shows that the plans have, in most cases, become inhibitors of development in a rapidly urbanising world. Master and local plans remain essential tools for guiding spatial development in Zimbabwe as long as they become flexible and swiftly respond to the needs of the ever-growing urban population.

Automated summary

Spatial development plans can be essential for guiding spatial development in rapidly urbanising towns and cities. However, their effectiveness in Zimbabwe's volatile environment is increasingly questioned and little understood in empirical terms. This study examines the impact of master and local plans on spatial development in Masvingo province and finds that the absence of such plans leads to chaotic and disorderly settlements. Even with operative plans, unplanned settlements emerge due to pressure on local authorities to provide land and housing. The high cost and inflexibility of preparing spatial development plans discourage their implementation and hinder development in a rapidly urbanising world.