An Analysis of Waterfront Development Strategy: As an Analogy of Self-Sustaining and Economically Viable City, Toronto, Canada

Abstract

Water as the most occurring substance on earth can be referred to as the ‘elixir of life' due to its fundamental origins for human sustenance. The presence of water in various forms in its natural setting plays an important role in enhancing the quality of physical and the socio-economic environment. Moreover, presence of water bodies gives the perception of social, psychological and environment value which includes but not limited to (a) enhancing the aesthetic quality and cultural values of a place, thereby contributing to the image of the city or town, (b) enhancing the social and recreational value and thus increasing the livability of the residents and land value, (c) act as a catalyst for economic activity progression. A popular Africa proverb says ‘water has no enemy' oh yes! That's true but perhaps these natural occurring or artificial waterways/bodies are being polluted by untreated waste, and in some cases, the flow is interrupted due to industrial and human activities which can lead to flooding, unhealthy environment and pose a serious health risk to both aquatic and human life.  Waterfront developments are regarded as a public space, a global phenomenon influenced by different stakeholders such as government/politicians, community leaders, and individual/cooperate, investors, resident occupants if any, research institute/urban developers, architects, engineers and other building professional. This paper enlightens the reader on the key elements and themes of waterfront developments strategies, the importance and theoretical analysis of sustainable action plan/frame-work used for revitalization of Toronto waterfront development project as a case study for a self-sustaining and economically viable waterfront development project.