Exclusion, emergence & mobility : a critical socio-spatial assessment of inequality within Hatfield revealing the potential for stations as socio-economic integration hubs

Abstract

Spatial inequality in urban regions of Gauteng, South Africa remains reminiscent of the apartheid era, with marginalized communities pushed to the peripheries, excluded from core socio-economic opportunities, and restricted by the shortcomings of the public transport system. Emergent networks like mini-bus taxi transport and informal trade evolved to circumvent these shortcomings and challenge inequality. This study focused on public transport gateways and interfaces, particularly the Metrorail, which is understudied despite its significance for the urban poor. The research took place in Hatfield, Pretoria, and revealed exclusion and inequality by examining the interactions between hard and soft infrastructure, influencing spatial organization and socio-economic networks associated with public transport infrastructure. The study aimed to uncover how transport infrastructure perpetuated exclusion, informing opportunities for socio-economic transformation and equitable transport infrastructure development. It did so by assessing the extent to which the current infrastructure facilitated socio-economic upliftment for marginalized communities and the integration of associated emergent networks. Within a qualitative grounded theory approach, the method followed an iterative, multi-scalar design. Interviews, observations, and desktop studies informed the socio-spatial mapping and "lifeworld" sketching analysis, comparing the Metrorail and Gautrain, while examining the taxi and trading networks for integration opportunities and transformation potential. Critical analysis of the interactions between hard and soft infrastructures uncovered instances of exclusion and inequality. The findings revealed that the Metrorail does not fully support socio-economic development for its users and associated networks. However, potential areas for transformation were found in the informal adaptation of hard infrastructures around the station. Comparing with the Gautrain identified gaps and integration possibilities. The taxi network analysis showed opportunities for informal systems to be adopted into the formal transport sector. The findings shed light on inequalities and suggested transformative interventions for addressing socioeconomic exclusion and promoting equitable urban development. This study highlighted the importance of conscious efforts in future transport-oriented developments to foster emergence, integration, vibrancy, and multi-functionality.