The diagram illustrates the city of Brandfield, showcasing its layout into distinct zones including residential, industrial, recreational, and commercial areas, with an emphasis on two proposed locations for a new shopping mall, labeled as S1 and S2.
In general, the river running through the city creates a natural division, and the city’s multi-modal transport network, including rail and road, is well-placed to serve transportation throughout the entire area.
S1 is located on the north side of the river, adjacent to a large residential area and along a major road connecting to the city center. This location is advantageous for a number of reasons. Firstly, the proximity to a dense residential area can generate significant domestic foot traffic, which is important for the success of a shopping center. Secondly, S1’s accessibility is further improved by its proximity to recreational facilities as well as the railway line, making it convenient for both visitors and residents. However, the increased traffic and potential noise may be a concern for nearby residents.
On the other hand, S2 is located to the southeast, close to an industrial and recreational area. While this location may attract workers from the industrial area and visitors from the agencies for leisure, its distance from major residential areas and the city center is a disadvantage. The relatively isolated location of this site may limit the customer base, reducing the likelihood of a shopping mall being successful at this location. While the presence of a minor road may provide greater convenience in commuting, it does not compensate for the locational disadvantages of S2.
Considering these factors, S1 is the more reasonable choice for the new shopping mall. The strategic location near a large residential area ensures a stable customer flow, which is essential for the survival of the shopping mall. In addition, with a tight traffic route, connecting to most of the landmarks and amenities in the area, it makes it more convenient to move around. Although there are potential challenges related to traffic and noise, this is not too disadvantageous compared to the prime location of S1 for a shopping mall.