Page 111 - IJPS-11-6

International Journal of
Population Studies Redesigning public spaces in South Africa

Through the analysis of these three local case studies, groups, with particular attention to the needs of women,
key takeaways regarding the actual use of inclusive design girls, and other vulnerable groups. The findings highlight
concepts in South African public spaces were identified. both the successes and challenges in creating inclusive
One of the most important lessons is the need for environments, and offer valuable insights into the key
comprehensive safety measures, particularly in areas with components of inclusive design that can be applied within
high foot traffic or where users may feel vulnerable. This South African urban contexts.
was evident in both the Durban Beachfront and People’s The study employed a carefully selected set of indicators
Park, where safety concerns persist despite improvements to evaluate the inclusiveness of public space design in the
in amenities and infrastructure. These findings suggest three case studies. These indicators were developed using
that a truly inclusive public space must consider not only international best practices and tailored to the South
physical accessibility but also social factors such as safety African environment.
and community engagement. The second key takeaway
is the importance of clear signage and wayfinding, which Figure 1 illustrates the survey findings, demonstrating
was successfully implemented in the Watershed but issues beyond safety concerns that limit women and girls’
could be improved in both the Durban Beachfront and access to and presence in public spaces in South African
People’s Park. Effective signage ensures that people with cities. Accessibility, transportation, victimization, and a
varying abilities can navigate the space easily, and this is lack of amenities are among the most notable problems
especially important in large, complex urban areas. Finally, that women and girls encounter when participating in
another key takeaway is the need for accessible services urban life.
and amenities, which play a significant role in ensuring One particularly poignant testimony from a survey
that public spaces cater to all user groups, particularly respondent encapsulates the pervasive sense of vulnerability
those with disabilities and families with young children. and apprehension experienced by many women and girls
These lessons directly influenced the development of the in navigating public spaces. One respondent’s remark was,
HopeScape model, which aims to design public spaces that “As a young woman, it feels unsafe to drive alone or even
are not only physically accessible but also socially inclusive be out with a group of girls, regardless of the time of day.
and welcoming to all members of the community. I simply want to feel free and at ease, without the stress of
In summary, the three local case studies selected—each potential dangers.” These words underscore the profound
representing a different context and set of challenges—have impact that safety concerns and fear of victimization
provided a comprehensive insight into the complexities of have on individuals’ lived experiences. Such testimonies
designing truly inclusive public spaces in South Africa. highlight the daily reality of women and girls who must
The Durban Beachfront, People’s Park, and the Watershed remain in a constant state of alert and concern while
illustrate both the progress made and the areas in need traversing public spaces fraught with potential dangers and
of improvement. Together, these case studies underscore threats to their safety. This underscores the critical need for
the importance of integrating safety, accessibility, and comprehensive initiatives that address not just the physical
community engagement into public space design, offering safety of public spaces, but also the broader sociocultural
valuable insights that can inform future urban planning norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender-based violence
practices across the country. By considering the lessons and discrimination.
learned from these spaces, South African cities can move The study’s diagnostic phase provided valuable insights
towards creating more inclusive public environments that into the existing conditions of public spaces in Durban and
better serve the diverse needs of their populations. Cape Town. Observations and survey data revealed that,

3.3. Study findings from local case studies
In this section, the findings from the local case studies are
presented in detail, following the earlier discussion of these
spaces in the article. These findings provide an in-depth
understanding of the current state of public space design
and the application of inclusive design principles in South
Africa. Through observations, surveys, and analysis of the
selected case studies—Durban Beachfront, People’s Park
in Durban, and the Watershed at the V&A Waterfront in
Cape Town—the study explored how local public spaces Figure 1. Factors that prevent women and girls from being present in
are being transformed to better accommodate diverse user public spaces in South African cities, adapted from survey data

Volume 11 Issue 6 (2025) 105 https://doi.org/10.36922/ijps.5813