Beyond the 15-minute city: Methodological lessons for proximity-based planning from two English case studies

The 15-minute city (15MC) popularises an older idea: that everyday destinations should be within a short, walkable or cyclable distance. Treating that idea more broadly as proximity-based planning, this study examines two English case-studies − Toxteth in Liverpool and the local authorities of Manchester and Salford. Using a combination of computerised traffic sensing, GIS service-access mapping and resident co-design workshops, the study shows that a multidisciplinary perspective and multi-method approaches are necessary to fully understand and implement proximity-based planning ideas. Our research underscores that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and the importance of tailored, flexible, and context-sensitive methodological approaches are critical for proximity-based principles to succeed. The study reflects on how urban planners can combine these methods in practice to support proximity-based planning. We suggest that future efforts should focus on addressing socio-economic disparities, enhancing public engagement, building coalitions with key agencies, and refining/tailoring methodologies to better align with local conditions.