Multi-criteria Evaluation vs Perceived Urban Quality: An Exploratory Comparison

This study compares a service-based and environmental evaluation of an urban area with that of its perceived walkability. The Pampulha region in Belo Horizonte, Brazil was first put through a multi-criteria spatial evaluation with respect to a set of spatial data considered relevant for liveability and quality of life in cities, and was subsequently assessed in terms of perceived walkability (using a machine learning procedure of a training set provided by local auditors). The two types of analysis were compared and qualitatively aggregated to obtain a joint spatial score of the urban environment. The findings provide useful insights for planning and urban policy.