Page 101 - IJPS-11-6

International Journal of
Population Studies Redesigning public spaces in South Africa

Principles of inclusive design emphasize engaging obstacles to participation while increasing the comfort
a diversity of users during all stages of planning and and convenience of all users (Newman, 1972). These may

implementation, including women, children, persons include amenities such as accessible walkways, seating areas,
with disabilities, informal traders, and LGBTQ+ restrooms, signage, lighting, landscaping, and wayfinding
communities—groups often sidelined in traditional urban features to improve the overall usability and enjoyment
processes (Wilson & Wanjiku-Kihato, 2023). Co-design and of the space (Carr et al., 1992). Cities that prioritize
participatory planning are essential approaches that enable inclusion in public space design and management create
residents to actively shape spaces in ways that reflect their environments that promote social equity, well-being, and
lived experiences and cultural identities (Biddulph et al., quality of life for all residents and visitors (Whitzman et al.,
2023; Nagle & Cloke, 2024). This participatory ethos builds 2014). Inclusive public spaces play a vital role in fostering
on longstanding theories of human-centered design, such connections, interactions, and community resilience, all of
as those by Gehl (2010), while addressing the structural which contribute to the overall livability and sustainability
exclusions embedded in many urban environments. of urban settings (UN-Habitat, 2020).

The materiality of public space—such as benches, 1.1.4. The importance of inclusive public spaces
lighting, signage, pathways, and restrooms—can either
invite or deter participation. Research shows that gender- Inclusive public spaces play a crucial role in advancing social
sensitive infrastructure, safe walkways, multi-generational equity, fostering community cohesion, and enhancing the
play areas, and clear sightlines dramatically improve overall quality of life in urban environments. These spaces
perceived and actual safety, especially for women, children, serve as vital arenas for social interaction, leisure, and
and older people (Lawton Smith, 2023; Viswanath & cultural expression, providing diverse populations with
Kamath, 2023). Public space design must consider opportunities to connect, share experiences, and engage
temporality and adaptability, allowing spaces to support meaningfully with their urban surroundings (Benny et al.,
diverse uses at different times of day and across different 2024; Gehl, 2010). Recent empirical research confirms
seasons (Benny et al., 2024). Inclusivity in public space that access to well-designed, inclusive public spaces
design is a political and ethical commitment. It challenges positively correlates with improved physical health,
spatial practices that reproduce inequality and affirms the enhanced mental well-being, increased social capital, and
right of all people to shape and occupy the city. In this greater satisfaction with urban life (Lawton Smith, 2023;
way, inclusive design not only improves usability but also Rodriguez et al., 2025).
actively contributes to social justice, collective well-being, Beyond individual benefits, inclusive public spaces
and democratic urban life (Sutherland & Anderson, 2024; contribute significantly to the economic viability of cities.
UN-Habitat, 2023). They attract visitors, stimulate local commerce, and often
lead to increases in property values and neighborhood
1.1.3. Defining inclusive public spaces desirability (Biddulph et al., 2023; Wilson & Wanjiku-
Inclusive public spaces are intentionally designed to meet Kihato, 2023). By providing equitable access to safe and
the different needs, preferences, and identities of those welcoming environments, these spaces enable people
who use them. These spaces are distinguished by their of all ages, abilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds to
accessibility, safety, and inclusion, which foster a sense fully participate in public life. This fosters meaningful
of belonging and involvement among users from diverse social encounters that break down cultural and social
backgrounds. Inclusive public spaces prioritize fair access barriers, challenge stereotypes, and cultivate a strong sense
to resources, facilities, and opportunities—ensuring of belonging and mutual respect among diverse urban
that everyone, regardless of age, gender, ability, or residents (Sutherland & Anderson, 2024; Viswanath &
socioeconomic background, can fully participate in and Kamath, 2023).
benefit from the place. They emphasize not only physical In the South African context—marked by historical
accessibility but also the social and cultural components of spatial segregation, persistent inequality, and fragmented
inclusion, with the goal of creating spaces in which everyone urban form—the creation and stewardship of inclusive
feels welcomed, valued, and respected. These spaces may public spaces are not only urgent but transformative
include diverse programming, facilities, and architectural (SACN, 2023; UN-Habitat, 2023). Safe, accessible, and
aspects that reflect the interests and preferences of many culturally inclusive public spaces play a critical role in
user groups, fostering a sense of community and social addressing past injustices by facilitating social integration,
cohesion (Gehl, 2010). empowering marginalized groups, and strengthening the
Inclusive public spaces are planned and designed resilience and equity of urban communities (Nagle &
using universal design principles and indicators, to reduce Cloke, 2024).

Volume 11 Issue 6 (2025) 95 https://doi.org/10.36922/ijps.5813