Evaluating The Responsiveness of Movement Frameworks in Peri-urban Neighborhoods: A Case Study of Khulna City, Bangladesh.

Rapid urbanization and population growth in major cities like Khulna have led to the significant expansion of peri-urban neighborhoods. This research evaluates the Responsiveness of Movement Frameworks in such areas, focusing specifically on the Atra neighborhood in Khulna, Bangladesh. The study adopts a multidimensional approach by analyzing road network attributes—such as grid patterns, street connectivity, and nodes—against five core urban design criteria: permeability, variety, legibility, robustness, and visual appropriateness. Through a qualitative and observational methodology, the research investigates pedestrian walkability, transport modes, and visual amenities to determine how the physical infrastructure supports human activity. The findings reveal a significant gap between urban design ideals and ground reality; according to standard urban design perspectives, the movement framework in Atra is non-responsive. However, the study highlights a crucial socio-spatial phenomenon: residents have successfully adapted their lifestyles to this non-responsive environment, maintaining a level of subjective satisfaction. This research provides critical insights for urban planners and policymakers to bridge the gap between technical infrastructure design and the lived experiences of peri-urban communities.