Review of Intangible Urban Planning Aspects for Sustainable Brick & Mortar Retail Markets

Undeniably, public precincts are the stage that unfolds urban life every day, they foster social & economic bonds, bringing people together. Brick & Mortar retail market along streets is one of major mode for retail shopping in a city, in addition, these places play a pivotal role for connecting people with the physical environment and this is not a recent phenomenon but B & M retail market along streets have played this role since the origin of towns and cities. But, in recent past, rather than pedestrian there have been more flow of private vehicles in these public precincts. The position is deteriorating day by day as private vehicles are growing drastically, due to which on one hand quality of life is degraded and on other hands the aspects of public spaces had undermined in several cities. Thus, there is an immediate demand to give attention to all users at these places, so that they can stroll, communicate, shop, and comply with other social acts that are important for sustaining socio-culture aspects of cities. Along with tangible, intangible characteristics also play a pivotal role in maintaining the social & culture of any area, and as retail depicts one of the important elements of urban development so these non-physical characteristics should be incorporated in retail planning. This paper will provide insights to make planning parameters that can revive footfall in B & M stores and increase user satisfaction while physical shopping. It will also help in addressing sustainable social and cultural aspects of the city and its impact on users.

Keywords: B&M Retail, Intangible Aspects, Planning, Social & Cultural Aspects, Sustainable, Tangible Elements.