Page 102 - IJPS-11-6

International Journal of
Population Studies Redesigning public spaces in South Africa

Cities that actively invest in inclusive public space 2. Data and methods
design and management are better equipped to nurture
social inclusion, promote community well-being, and 2.1. Research design
enhance the overall urban experience for all citizens. This study employed a mixed-methods approach to
The strategic prioritization of inclusive public spaces investigate the barriers that women and girls encounter
represents more than a matter of social justice—it is a in accessing and enjoying public spaces, and to develop
fundamental element of sustainable urban development. actionable strategies for fostering inclusivity through
Such investments yield tangible returns in health the HopeScape model. The mixed-methods approach
outcomes, economic vibrancy, and social harmony, combined qualitative and quantitative techniques to capture
thereby making cities more vibrant, resilient, and livable a comprehensive understanding of public space dynamics,
for current and future generations (Benny et al., 2024; drawing on both empirical evidence and theoretical insights.
UN-Habitat, 2023). The qualitative component involved an in-depth
1.1.5. Demonstrating the need for inclusive public analysis of case studies, interviews with key stakeholders
spaces (e.g., urban planners, policymakers, and community
members), and field observations. This approach helped
The problems and disparities that continue to persist to uncover nuanced experiences, perceptions and needs
in urban contexts, particularly in South African cities, specific to women and girls in diverse urban settings. The
highlight the need for inclusive public spaces. A thorough international case studies—such as those in Vienna and
literature study and empirical studies revealed that access Tunis—were selected for their recognized practices in
to safe, accessible, and inclusive public spaces is not only inclusive public space design, serving as benchmarks for
desired, but also necessary for tackling multiple social, comparison. The local case studies—Durban Beachfront,
economic, and environmental challenges (UN-Habitat, People’s Park, and the Watershed at the V&A Waterfront—
2020). In South Africa, as in many other countries, provided contextual insight into inclusivity in South
urbanization, rapid population growth, and spatial African cities.
disparities have contributed to the spread of informal
settlements, inadequate infrastructure, and restricted The quantitative component included the use of
access to essential services (Turok, 2014). These spatial spatial data and safety audits to assess the physical and
inequities have exacerbated social fragmentation, functional aspects of public spaces. Key indicators, such as
exclusion, and marginalization—particularly among accessibility, safety, identity, and multifunctionality, were
vulnerable groups, including women, children, and older measured and compared across different sites.
persons. By integrating qualitative and quantitative methods,
Literature indicates that traditional approaches to this research ensures a holistic examination of the factors
public space design and management have frequently that influence the inclusivity of public spaces. The mixed-
perpetuated these inequities, with many public spaces methods design also facilitates triangulation, enhancing the
characterized by poor upkeep, insufficient amenities, reliability and validity of the findings. This comprehensive
and limited accessibility. As a result, women and girls, approach aligns with the study’s objective of proposing a
in particular, encounter major impediments in accessing practical and evidence-informed framework for inclusive
and enjoying public spaces, including safety concerns, urban design in South Africa.
harassment, and inadequate amenities. According to 2.2. Data collection
previous studies, exclusionary public spaces can intensify
social tensions, reinforce existing inequalities, and hamper The data collection process involved gathering information
efforts to create cohesive and resilient urban communities from both primary and secondary sources to provide a
(Whitzman et al., 2014). In contrast, inclusive public spaces robust foundation for the development of the HopeScape
can foster social cohesion, encourage social interaction, model.
and cultivate a sense of belonging and ownership among
diverse urban populations (UN-Habitat, 2016). Therefore, 2.2.1. Case study selection
the need to design and maintain inclusive public spaces The research employed a multi-scalar approach by
is evident. Cities that prioritize inclusion in public space selecting both international and South African case studies
design and management may address structural disparities, to critically assess inclusive public space design practices.
foster social cohesion, and provide welcoming, safe, and Internationally, Vienna (city of Austria) and Tunis (city
accessible environments for all residents, regardless of age, of Tunisia) were chosen for their notable commitment to
gender, or socioeconomic position. gender-sensitive planning and participatory urbanism.

Volume 11 Issue 6 (2025) 96 https://doi.org/10.36922/ijps.5813