AccScience Publishing / IJPS / Online First / DOI: 10.36922/ijps.5813
RESEARCH ARTICLE

HopeScape: Redesigning public spaces for women and girls in South African cities

Kiara Rampaul1* Hangwelani Hope Magidimisha-Chipingu1
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1 Department of Town and Regional Planning, Faculty of Built Environment and Development Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Received: 7 November 2024 | Revised: 24 May 2025 | Accepted: 23 June 2025 | Published online: 6 August 2025
© 2025 by the Author(s). This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License ( https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ )
Abstract

Inclusive public spaces are essential for fostering community engagement, social interaction, and equitable access, yet women and girls often encounter challenges such as safety concerns and limited amenities that restrict their participation. This study introduces the HopeScape model—a framework developed through a mixed-methods approach that integrates insights from international case studies (Vienna and Tunis) and local examples (Durban Beachfront, People’s Park, and the Watershed at the V&A Waterfront). Key indicators, including accessibility, safety, identity, and multifunctionality, were identified to help address these challenges. The findings highlight significant gaps in South African public spaces, particularly regarding safety and inclusivity for women and girls. By synthesizing global best practices with local insights, the HopeScape model offers actionable strategies for creating safe, accessible, and inclusive public spaces, contributing to equitable urban development.

Keywords
Inclusive public spaces
Women and girls
Urban planning
Safety and accessibility
Funding
None.
Conflict of interest
The authors declare that they have no competing interests.
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