A recent all-Russian study by the Research Institute for Sustainable Development (NIURS) indicates widespread dissatisfaction among city residents with urban environments designed according to regulations. The study, involving 2,300 participants across 12 cities, highlights key issues such as inaccessibility, lack of nearby services, pollution, and noise.

The research found that residents frequently experience discomfort despite regulatory compliance, with accessibility being a major concern for 54% of respondents. Furthermore, 57% cited a lack of essential services within walking distance as a significant problem.

Environmental concerns also ranked high, with 78% of residents expressing dissatisfaction with garbage and 82% complaining about noise levels. These findings suggest a disconnect between regulatory standards and the actual lived experience of urban dwellers.

The study further revealed a lack of community engagement, as only 12% of respondents reported interacting with their neighbors, even in spaces designed to foster social interaction. Vera Burtseva, director of NIURS, emphasized that the environment is more than just project documentation. She stated that infrastructure must be useful and relevant to residents’ daily lives to be considered successful.

Irina Proshchenkova, head of product development at GC “Lenstroytrust,” stressed the importance of thorough analysis during the design phase. This includes engineering, sociological, territorial, transport, historical-cultural, and marketing considerations. Proshchenkova also highlighted the need to consider the needs of different age groups when zoning public spaces and ensuring a safe environment. The study suggests that effective management companies play a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable environment for residents after settlement.