ABSTRACT
South Africa's transition from a housing-centric approach to sustainable human settlements is crucial in addressing its fragmented urban landscapes. Despite policy shifts, spatial integration remains a challenge, with marginalised communities still relegated to peripheral areas, limiting access to economic and social opportunities. This study examines the gap between policy intentions and on-the-ground realities in achieving spatial integration. Using bibliometric analysis, it assesses the evolution of knowledge in this field, identifying key narratives and emerging trends. Findings highlight inconsistencies in policy implementation, where frameworks including Breaking New Ground (BNG) and the National Development Plan stress integration, yet housing projects often reinforce peripheral development due to poor location choices, inadequate infrastructure, and weak stakeholder coordination. However, successful case studies showcase mixed-use developments, inclusionary housing, and transport integration. The study proposes a Spatial Integration Framework (SIF) advocating policy alignment, location-centered planning, and participatory approaches to enhance spatial integration in South Africa.
