Micromobility and the 15-Minute City: Rethinking Urban Design
​The Shift Away from Traditional City Models
Urban planning has long been dominated by models such as the Hoyt Sector Model and Burgess's Concentric Zone Model, both of which emphasize a city structured around centralised business districts with residential and commercial zones sprawling outward. This design has historically led to car dependency, longer commutes, and inefficient land use. However, the 15-Minute City and 20-Minute Neighbourhood concepts propose a radically different approach—one where everything a person needs is within a short walk, cycle, or transit ride from their home.
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The Hoyt and Burgess models were developed in the early 20th century when industrial growth drove the expansion of cities outward. These models structured cities with distinct zones—central business areas, industrial districts, and residential suburbs—connected largely by car-based infrastructure. This layout not only increased commute times but also contributed to urban sprawl, making daily needs more distant and car dependency inevitable.
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The 15-Minute City, by contrast, aims to decentralise access to essential services such as schools, healthcare, grocery stores, and workplaces. Instead of relying on a single central hub, neighbourhoods are designed as self-sufficient units where people can live, work, and socialise without needing long commutes.
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How Micro-mobility Supports the 15-Minute City
Micro-mobility, such as bikes, e-bikes, cargo bikes, and e-scooters play a crucial role in making the 15-Minute City and 20-Minute Neighbourhood viable. These modes of transport bridge the gap between walking and public transport, offering a convenient, sustainable way to navigate compact urban spaces.
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Reducing Car Dependency: Short trips that might otherwise require a car can be completed via bike or e-scooter, cutting emissions and congestion.
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Encouraging Local Economies: If residents can easily access shops and services nearby, they are more likely to support local businesses.
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Improving Public Health: More cycling and walking contribute to better physical health and reduce pollution-related illnesses.
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Enhancing Urban Liveability: Less traffic and pollution make cities quieter, safer, and more enjoyable places to live.
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The Future of Urban Mobility
Cities worldwide are already investing in cycling infrastructure, pedestrian-friendly streets, and shared mobility schemes to align with the principles of the 15-Minute City. With strategic planning and investment in micro-mobility solutions, urban areas can shift away from car-centric designs toward a more sustainable and accessible future.
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At RELM Logistics, we advocate for cleaner, greener ways to move through our cities. Supporting micro-mobility is one step towards creating healthier, more connected communities. The future of urban transport isn't about going farther—it’s about bringing everything closer.