Exclusionary spatial measures and devices in public urban spaces : investigating Prinshof 349-JR

Abstract

Despite numerous post-apartheid policies aiming to get rid of social exclusion and spatial separation, the capital city of South Africa remains deeply divided. The city's public spaces have evolved over the last three decades, witnessing a rise in gated communities that restrict access to communal and recreational areas. However, what has remained unchanged is the persistence of inequality in South African cities like Tshwane, with spatial barriers and exclusionary elements from the past still existing as remnants. This research paper examines exclusionary spatial measures in urban public spaces, focusing on the context of Prinshof in the City of Tshwane, South Africa. The study delves into the psychological accessibility of Prinshof, considering the impact of historical imbalances, perceptions of activity, and the presence of exclusionary elements. The findings reveal the influence of historical imbalances on Prinshof's urban development. Harsh boundaries, such as property enclosures and limited access points, create spatial segregation and underutilization of public spaces, leading to ‘wasted space’ within the urban fabric. Perceptions of public space versus reality also play a critical role, as spaces labelled as publicly accessible may still be psychologically uninviting or unused, impacting different user groups' experiences. Green spaces and trees emerge as essential elements in influencing psychological accessibility. The presence of trees along east-west roads creates a pleasant walking experience, while the privatisation of green spaces limits their accessibility to the broader community. Addressing these disparities requires thoughtful placemaking that resonates with diverse cultural and social identities, promoting a sense of ownership and belonging among residents. The implications of transportation on psychological accessibility are also explored, with the high-speed road of Steve Biko being identified as a significant barrier to pedestrian movement and safety. Noise levels and scale play crucial roles in shaping perceptions of urban environments, with organic cities offering better sensory experiences than disconnected volumes. Overall, this research paper provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between exclusionary spatial measures, historical imbalances, and psychological accessibility in urban public spaces. By examining the Prinshof context, this study and its methodology has the possibility to act as a good starting point and recipe for how the rest of the City of Tshwane could be analysed.