Developing a just 15-minute city framework: insights from a Delphi panel

Abstract

The 15-minute city is promoted as a model for resilient, equitable and sustainable urban futures, yet it may reproduce socio-spatial inequalities. Drawing on the ‘just city’ concept, this paper co-develops a framework for defining and evaluating a ‘just 15-minute city’. The framework combines qualitative content analysis of academic and policy literature with a Delphi survey of experts in urban planning and justice. It identifies three principles—equitable accessibility, community diversity and participatory governance—and translates them into actionable criteria and indicators. The framework helps policymakers embed social justice in 15-minute city policies, promote equitable outcomes and support inclusive urban transitions.