In urban planning, what is meant by 'dispersed settlement'?

Dispersed settlement refers to a pattern where buildings are spaced far apart from one another, rather than clustered in a concentrated area. This design approach can be observed in various rural communities where homes and buildings are separated by significant distances, often to accommodate agricultural practices or natural landscapes. The characteristics of dispersed settlements include more extensive land use, lower population density, and often, reliance on personal transportation methods.

The context of this concept suggests that it contrasts sharply with other types of settlement patterns, such as clustered or urbanized settings where structures are closely positioned. Dispersed settlements can lead to challenges in infrastructure development, public service delivery, and community interaction, as distance can impact accessibility. This spatial arrangement also influences social dynamics and resource distribution within a region.