Assessing urban dynamics in Johannesburg’s public space : highlighting urban segregation and connectivity patterns of public space from an urban psychology perspective

Abstract

This research investigates patterns of urban segregation and connectivity in public recreational spaces within the City of Johannesburg, focusing on Innesfree Park and Frank Brown Park along the Corridors of Freedom development spines. Situated in a post-apartheid context, these parks symbolise spaces historically marked by segregation, Now, revitalisation efforts are being undertaken to promote social cohesion. The study uses an urban psychology lens to explore how architectural design elements and social psychological processes influence the formation of connections or divisions among diverse user groups in these public park settings. Through qualitative desktop and fieldwork analysis, the research aimed to uncover nuanced insights into how these public spaces are experienced. By examining the dynamics of segregation and connection, this study contributes to understanding the complexities of urban public space in post-apartheid South Africa. The findings reveal multifaceted insights into the mechanisms influencing segregation and connection at macro, meso, and micro scales. Macro analyses highlight the significance of proximity and access to high-movement spines in promoting or hindering connections. Conversely, the study identifies how historical spatial exclusion and infrastructural barriers perpetuate segregation, particularly evident in post-apartheid South Africa. At the meso scale, the research delves into infrastructure arrangements and public interfaces, emphasizing their role in facilitating or impeding social cohesion. It examines how poorly designed infrastructures, influenced by historical spatial planning, continue to segregate communities despite contemporary urban initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity. Micro-level analyses focus on user perceptions and architectural articulation within these public spaces which symbiotically form mechanisms that foster connections and segregations in public urban spaces. Insights indicate that while certain design interventions and user driven programs promote connections, others inadvertently isolate communities, highlighting the complex interplay between space design and social dynamics. This study contributes novel insights into the field of urban psychology offering practical implications for policymakers and urban planners. By understanding these dynamics, stakeholders can leverage urban spaces to foster inclusive communities and mitigate social segregation in diverse urban contexts.