How feasible is the 15-Minute city concept in Istanbul : the case of Beşiktaş district

Abstract

This study aims to reveal the extent to which accessibility values calculated using digital platforms (15-minute city score) align with the physical, social and environmental realities on the ground—specifically in two distinct areas within Istanbul’s Beşiktaş district, representing the polar extremes—the highest and lowest values—of the 15-minute city scores. Supported by field data, this study employing qualitative research methods addresses, in turn: how accessibility values are calculated, a morphological analysis of the selected areas, and an evaluation of the alignment or discrepancies between the calculated 15-minute city scores and the existing field data. Furthermore, the study will discuss the causes and mechanisms behind the observed discrepancies, the extent to which they represent reality, the reliability of remote calculations, and how these calculations should be utilised in official data. The findings contribute to enabling urban authorities to evaluate the data they use in planning and transport studies more accurately.