Evaluating the Current Use of Urban Open Spaces Versus

their Purpose Use: A Case Study of Albert Park and Gugu

Dlamini Park, eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal,
South Africa.

By

Mhlalisi Gavu Mndzebele

A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the

Master’s Degree in Town and Regional Planning.

November 2019

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 DECLARATION
I, Mhlalisi Gavu Mndzebele, declare that the work presented in this dissertation is my original
work and has not been submitted to the University of KwaZulu-Natal or any other university
for the purposes of obtaining an academic qualification, whether by myself or any other party.

Signature …………………………….

Date ………………………………….

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 DEDICATION
I dedicate this thesis to my dearest mother Beatrice Zandile Themba Nxumalo
and to my nieces and nephews.

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 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I would like to express my appreciation to my supervisor Dr. Hope Hangwelani Magidimisha

for her guidance, encouragement and mentorship, even outside this research. A special
acknowledgment to the Department of Town and Regional Planning Staff at the University of
KwaZulu-Natal. I want to thank the eThekwini Municipality for allowing the study and also
participating. My sincere gratitude goes to my siblings (Kholiwe,Qondile, Mbongiseni and
Kayise) for all the encouragement and support throughout. A huge thank you to all my friends,
especially Gcina,Senzo, Zakithi and Mthobisi, for keeping me motivated.

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 Table of Contents
1.1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2. Problem Statement......................................................................................................................... 2
1.3. Broad Objective ............................................................................................................................. 3
1.3.1. Specific Objectives .................................................................................................................. 3
1.4. The Main Research Question and the Subsidiary Questions ..................................................... 3
(a) Main Research Question ............................................................................................................ 3
(b) Sub-research questions .............................................................................................................. 3
1.5. Rationale for the Study .................................................................................................................. 3
1.6. Methodology ................................................................................................................................... 4
1.6.1. Qualitative Study .................................................................................................................... 4
1.6.2. Data Sources and Collection .................................................................................................. 4
1.7. Problems Encountered with Fieldwork ....................................................................................... 6
1.8. Structure of the Dissertation ......................................................................................................... 7
1.9 Summary .......................................................................................................................................... 8
2.1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 9
Urban open space ................................................................................................................................... 9
Placemaking ......................................................................................................................................... 10
Imageability .......................................................................................................................................... 12
Right to the City.................................................................................................................................... 13
2.2. Contemporary Urban Design Theory ........................................................................................ 14
2.2.1. Background of Contemporary Urban Design Theory ....................................................... 14
2.3. Collaborative Planning Theory................................................................................................... 18
2.4. Modernism and Urban Historical Structure ............................................................................. 19
2.5. Approaches to Viewing Open Space........................................................................................... 22
2.5.1. Development Approach ........................................................................................................ 22
2.6. Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 23
3.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 24
3.2. Benefits of Urban Open Spaces................................................................................................... 24
3.3. An International Experience on Urban Open Spaces ............................................................... 30
3.4. Urban Open Space in Christina Wangari Garden-Kenya ....................................................... 36
3.5. Urban Open Spaces in South Africa .......................................................................................... 40
3.5.1. Metropolitan Open Space Systems ...................................................................................... 41
3.6. Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 49
4.1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 50
4.2. The eThekwini Municipality ....................................................................................................... 50

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4.2.1. Legislative Framework ............................................................................................................. 51
4.2.1.1. Integrated Development Plan (IDP) ................................................................................... 51
4.2.1.2. Spatial Development Framework (SDF) ............................................................................ 52
4.2.1.3. Durban Town Planning Scheme ........................................................................................ 53
4.3. Albert Park ................................................................................................................................... 53
4.3.1. The Socio-economic Profile of Ward 32 .............................................................................. 54
4.3.2. Zoning of Albert Park........................................................................................................... 55
4.3.3. Land Uses surrounding Albert Park ................................................................................... 56
4.4. Gugu Dlamini Park ...................................................................................................................... 57
4.4.1. The Socio-economic Profile of Gugu Dlamini Park ........................................................... 57
4.4.2. Zoning of Gugu Dlamini Park ............................................................................................. 59
4.4.3. Land Uses surrounding Gugu Dlamini Park ...................................................................... 62
4.5 Summary........................................................................................................................................ 62
5.1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 63
5.1.1. Presentation of Findings ....................................................................................................... 63
5.1.2. Overview Responses from Users of Urban Open Spaces .................................................. 64
5.2. Physical Characteristics .............................................................................................................. 65
5.2.1. Demographic Characteristics of Urban Open Space Users .............................................. 65
5.3. The Current Use of the Urban Open Space ............................................................................... 66
5.3.1. Findings from the eThekwini Municipality Official .......................................................... 66
5.3.1.1. Findings from Urban Open Space Users and Researcher’s Observations ................... 70
5.3.1.3. Findings from Academia’s Perspective ............................................................................ 77
5.4. Facilities in the Urban Open Spaces ........................................................................................... 79
5.5. Challenges faced in Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park ....................................................... 89
5.6. Shortfalls of the eThekwini Municipality .................................................................................. 91
5.7. Principles Evaluation ................................................................................................................... 92
5.8. Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 94
6.1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 95
6.2. Summary of Findings .................................................................................................................. 95
6.3. Recommendations ........................................................................................................................ 96
6.4. Research Objectives and Aims.................................................................................................. 100
6.5. Conclusion .................................................................................................................................. 101
6.6. References ................................................................................................................................... 102

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 LIST OF PICTURES

Image 3.1: Fig trees, various landscaping chess set………………………………………………. 32

Image 3.2: Hyde Park lay-out - highlighting entrances……………………………………………32

Image 3.3: Various artworks at Hyde Park………………………………………..……………….33

Image 3:4: Seating area and pathways……………………………………………………..….…...44

Image 3.5: Poor public display sign…………………………………………………………….…...45

Image 5.1: Homeless people found using the park to sleep…………………………………….….73

Image 5.2: Dance activity at Gugu Dlamini Park…………………………………………….……74

Image 5.3: Informal trading at Gugu Dlamini Park………………………………………………76

Image 5:4: Rubbish bins at Gugu Dlamini Park…………………………………………………..80

Image 5:5: Play equipment for children at Albert Park……………………………………..……81

Image 5.6: Gym area at Albert Park……………….……………………………………….………82

Image 5.7: Basketball court at Albert Park………………..………………..……………………..82

Image 5.8: Soccer field at Albert Park……………………………..………………….……………83

Image 5.9: Paved walkway at Gugu Dlamini Park………………..…………………….…………83

Image 5.10: Paved walkway at Albert Park……………………………………..…………………83

Image 5.11: Metropolitan Police Service at Albert Park……………....……….…………………84

Image 5.12: Tree features at Albert Park Source …………………………..….….………………85

Image 5.13: Flower garden at Albert Park………………………………..……..…………………85

Image 9.14: Parking at Albert Park………………………………………..…….…………………86

Image 9.15A: Direction signage at Gugu Dlamini Park ……………………..……………………87

Image 9.15B: Caution Signage………………………………………………………………………87

Image 9.16: Signage at Albert Park………………………………………………...………………88

Image 9.17: Sculpture at Gugu Dlamini Park …………………………….………………………89

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 2.1: Principles of placemaking……………………………………..……….………………11

Figure 3.1: Summary of urban open space benefits…………………………..…….……………..25

Figure 5.1: Study participants………………………………………………………..……..………64

Figure 5.2: Gender respondents…………………………………………………………………….65

Figure 5.3: Urban open space management……………………….………….……………………68

Figure 5.4: Occupants of urban open space users…………………………..……………………..70

Figure 5.5: Purpose use…………………………………………………………..………………….74

Figure 5.5: Level of safety………………………………………………….………………………..85

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 LIST OF MAPS

Map 3.1: Hyde Park lay-out…………………………………..………………………………..31

Map 3.2: Wangari Garden………………………………….………………………………….37

Map 3.3: Depiction of problems……………………………….………………………………38

Map 3.4: Sandton Central Park……………………………………………………………….43

Map 3.5: Durban Metro Open Spaces………………………………………………………...48

Map 4.1: eThekwini Municipality…………………………………………………………......51

Map 4:2: Albert Park…………………………………………………………….…………….53

Map 4:3: Zoning Map……………………………………………….…….…………………...55

Map 4:4: Gugu Dlamini Park……………………………………………….………………...57

Map 4:5: Zoning Map…………………………………………………….…………………....59

Map 5.1: Gugu Dlamini Park Activities………………………………….…………………..71

Map 5.2: Albert Park Activities…………………………………...……….…………………72

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 LIST OF TABLES

Table 2.1: Design principles…………………….………………………………….………………..15

Table 3:1: Benefits of open spaces…………………………….…………………………………….25

Table 4.1: Racial composition in Ward 32…..………………...……………………………………54

Table 4.2: Employment status in Ward 32….……………...………………………………………54

Table 4.3: Zoning table adapted from eThekwini Central Town Scheme………..………………56

Table 4.4: Racial composition in Ward 28………………………………………………………….58

Table 4.5: Employment status in Ward 28……………………………………...………………….58

Table 4.6: Zoning table adapted from eThekwini Central Town Scheme…………...…………...59

Table 5.1: Overview of facilities at Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park…………….…………79

Table 5.2: Summary of challenges………………………………………………………….……….90

Table 6.1: Research objectives alongside the chapters responding to the objective……………..98

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 LIST OF ANNEXURES

Annexure 1: Ethical Clearance…………………………………………………………………….103

Annexure 2: Gatekeeper’s Letter……………………………………………………………..….. 104
Annexure 3: Information Sheet…………………………………………………...……………….105
Annexure 4: Declaration of Consent……………………………………..………………………..106

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 ACRONYMS

CBD : Central Business District

CSDS : Conservation Subdivisions
CSIR : Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
DMOSS : Durban Metropolitan Open Space System
EEMP : eThekwini Environmental Services Management Plan
SAPS : South African Police Service
SDF : Spatial Development Framework
SDA : South Durban Area
ITRUMP : Inner City Thekwini Regeneration and Urban Management Programme
IDP : Integrated Development Plan
NEMA: : National Environmental Management Act
NGOs : Non-Governmental Organisations

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 Abstract
Urban open spaces play a critical role in cities by means of providing spaces for recreational,
health and leisure activities. This thesis highlights that there is unmistakable evidence of
economic, social and environmental benefits of urban open spaces in cities. The design and
planning are the contrivances that help to provide usable and liveable spaces that encourage
users to choose to spend time in them. There are diverse activities that do not signify the
intentional use of urban open spaces. This dissertation evaluates the current and purpose use of
urban open spaces at Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park, Durban, South Africa. The study
was investigated through interviews with relevant stakeholders and direct observations. The
dissertation reveals an understanding of how urban open spaces are used internationally and
then makes a shift on how they are used locally. As a result of poor management and
enforcement, it was discovered that urban open spaces are currently dominated by informal
activities. This study provides a number of recommendations on how best and effectively urban
open spaces can be utilised, which includes incorporating urban open spaces within the
municipal’s strategic goals and ensuring they correspond to economic needs.

xiii
Evaluating the Current Use of Urban Open Spaces Versus their Purpose Use: A Case
Study of Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park, eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal,
South Africa

Chapter 1
Introduction

1.1. Introduction
Urban open spaces provide vibrancy in cities. According to De Ridder, et al. (2004), the
appreciating of urban environments has increased recently, particularly with respect to the
benefits (function) of such environments to the residents. Increased responsiveness has been
devoted and invested in available open spaces in cities as they play an imperative role in
improving and enhancing people’s quality of life thus making cities liveable and sustainable
(Chiesura, 2004; Sutton, 2008 Konijnendijk, et al., 2013). Less attention has been paid in the
user’s perspective with regard to urban open spaces. More attention is paid to the purposes and
benefits that open spaces offer, while it is essential to pay attention to how they are used.

Hayward and Weitzer (1984, p. 244) maintain that open spaces were initially created to offer
tranquillity and outdoor leisure environments for urban residents. There have also been
opposing perceptions regarding this perspective. Studies clearly revealed that some users sense
vulnerability and exposure to criminality in urban open spaces (Hayward and Weitzer, 1984;
Chiesura, 2004). The increase of negative attitudes towards open spaces has resulted in this
study to examine the factors or contributors leading to the current use of such spaces.

According to Mohammadi (2015), urban open spaces find their significance in people’s
activities and presence more than the physical role, thus they are essential for generating social
relations among people. Unfortunately, many questions continually arise concerning urban
open spaces in cities, with people repeatedly claiming they are unsafe and not accessible. It
thus raises questions about the current use of open spaces in cities.

The prime objective of the study is to examine the current use of urban open spaces and find
out if they are embracing their purpose use. This dissertation embarked on a comparative study
between Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park in Durban, South Africa.

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1.2. Problem Statement
The difficulty of having a huge population migrating to city zones is that the struggle
concerning the natural environment and people’s needs is increased within a restricted and
partial geographic space as often delimited by city administrative boundaries (Sutton, 2008).
According to Sutton (2008), this is a general challenge taking place in all city open spaces. The
increase of literature on the benefits of open spaces has made it even more prominent for
researchers to examine current challenges occurring in these spaces.

The eThekwini Municipality has an attractive variation of public open spaces including natural
areas and parks. However, there are gaps in maintenance and urban management, which are
evident in observations and perceptions of grime and crime prevailing and dominant in public
open spaces in the city (Child-Friendly City Campaign (CFCC) Durban, August 2010). This
shows that open spaces are faced by diverse challenges that provoked the researcher to study
the purpose use of city open spaces. Even though the image of the city is being tarnished by
informalities and challenges, people still have a right to be in the city.

The right of all people to the city is not simply commercial activities, but also as a communal,
social and free space which is protected in the World Charter and expounded by the
international social drive actors at the social forum of the World Urban Forum in October 2004.
The commission demands that unbiased use of open space in cities must be grounded on the
principles of social justice and sustainability (UN-Habitat, 2005). eThekwini Municipality’s
urban open spaces do not only face challenges of cleanliness, but open spaces such as the
Francis Farewell Square and Botanic Gardens are unsafe and lack activities (Cloete and Yusuf,
2018). Naidoo (2017) notes that the public open space at Albert Park lacks security, easy
accessibility and there are no controlling measures in place. Naidoo (2017) further argues that
proper planning must be implemented to restore its original use. Mutuma (2010) notes that
migration inflows in Durban occurred in the inner city at Albert Park, leaving a stream of
building decay, crime and general uncleanliness. According to the former mayor of eThekwini
Municipality, Nxumalo (2014) the purpose of establishing a multi-disciplinary approach is to
address predicaments of drugs, crime, uncleanness and vagrancy, which are tarnishing the
image of the city, and the focus areas are Albert Park and other inner parts of the city. These
problems therefore distort and contrast the principles and values of social justice and
sustainability. The common challenges experienced in urban open spaces in the inner city of
Durban resulted in this study to examine the current and purposed use of these spaces. For the

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sake of this research two case studies were used, specifically Albert Park, in comparison with
Gugu Dlamini Park.

1.3. Broad Objective

The broad objective of the study is to examine and assess the extent of the use of urban open
spaces in Durban’s inner city, focussing on factors leading to the current use, and eventually
formulating recommendations on how urban spaces can be best utilised in South African cities.
1.3.1. Specific Objectives
 Compare and contrast the current use and purpose use of Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini
Park.
 Examine how the urban open spaces were used in the past 15 years at Albert Park and
Gugu Dlamini Park.
 Examine factors which lead to changing the use of Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park.
 Provide recommendations on how best to use urban open spaces of Gugu Dlamini Park
and Albert Park.

1.4. The Main Research Question and the Subsidiary Questions

(a) Main Research Question
What are the dynamics leading to the change in the use of urban open spaces?
(b) Sub-research questions
 What is the current use and purposed use of Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park?
 How were urban open spaces used in the past 15 years at Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini
Park?
 What are the factors leading to the current use of Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park?
 What are the recommendations that can influence the urban open spaces to be best used
at Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini?

1.5. Rationale for the Study

The justification to pursue this study was motivated by the evidence in observations and
discernments of uncleanliness and crime prevailing in public spaces in the city of Durban.
Many informalities are taking place in urban open spaces, which then provoked the study to
scrutinise the purpose use of open space in cities. Despite legislation, policies and byways put
in place by municipalities, open spaces still encounter diverse challenges. These challenges are
affecting the city image, accessibility and user’s rights to spaces and the city. The aim of the
study is to examine and scrutinise the current use in spaces with the objective of formulating

3
recommendations on how best city open spaces can be used. The importance of the study is to
highlight and emphasise the need for having unique urban open spaces which encourage zero
danger tolerance levels for users.

1.6. Methodology
Melville and Goddard’s (2001, p.1) research is defined as not just a procedure for gathering
information, “it is about responding to unanswered questions or creating that which does not
currently exist”. In essence, a research methodology is a defined structure for unravelling a
problem that comprises specific tasks, phases, tools and methods for the collection of data
(Kothari, 2002). The aim of the research methodology is to provide the work plan for the study.
This section outlines the methods which the researcher used to obtain and analyse data to
examine the use of urban open spaces using a case study at Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini
Park, Durban. This section starts by outlining the methodology, analysing sources of data, data
collection methods, sampling procedure and concludes by highlighting some of the challenges
encountered in the field.

1.6.1. Qualitative Study

Qualitative research is mainly interpretative in its analysis of data and is largely purposive in
the collection of data (Flick, 2009). Various methods were used to collect data. It should be
emphasised that the use of several methods and techniques provided the platform for validating
information obtained. Open-ended interviews with an eThekwini municipality official from the
Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture and the users of the parks were used. The
researcher was able to use direct observation to examine the current use of both urban open
spaces, namely Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park.

1.6.2. Data Sources and Collection

In response to examining current and purpose use of urban open spaces, data was collected
from two sources. The first source of data was collected from secondary data sources and then
the second source from primary data sources. These methods are discussed below.
(i) Primary Data Sources
Primary data relates to material that contains raw, direct evidence or an eye-witness account of
a topic or event under investigation, explained Patton and Cochran (2002). This type of data
was obtained from officials in the Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture at the
eThekwini Municipality. The information was also obtained from case study areas by
interviewing users of urban open spaces and by observation. A lecturer in the Department of

4
Town and Regional Planning from the University of KwaZulu-Natal was interviewed.
Mapping is another technique that was used to obtain data. The collection of primary data was
obtained by using three key techniques: observations, interviews and mapping. These three
techniques are discussed below.

(a) Direct Observation

The study used direct observations to gather data that responded to the objectives and research
questions. The researcher was able to get information about different activities taking place at
Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park. The importance of this approach is that it provided
accurate information as the researcher watched events as they unfolded in both urban open
spaces.

(b) Structured Open-ended Interviews

The benefit and advantage of structured open-ended interviews is the use of open-ended
questions, which provides participants with the opportunity to answer in their own comfortable
manner, rather than compelling them to select from static answers (Kitchin and Tate, 2000).
Furthermore, this style of interview is greatly controlled by the interviewer and interviewee’s
responses which are guarded to classifications delivered by the interviewer (Kitchin and Tate,
2000). A sample size of 40 key participants out of a population of 595 000 were selected. The
eThekwini municipality in the Department of Parks, Recreational and Culture was involved in
addressing some of the questions prepared by the researcher since both open spaces are located
within the municipal’s jurisdiction.

(c) Mapping
Mapping is the process of creating a visual representation of knowledge (University of Guelph,
2012). The researcher used GIS to create maps of the study area. Some maps were attained
from eThekwini Municipality, which helped to locate the urban open spaces in the inner city
and informed the researcher about land uses and zoning of adjacent areas.

(i) Sampling Method

Sampling is defined as a practice or procedure to choose an appropriate sample, or to epitomise
a population with the tenacity for determining the features of the entire population (Webster,
1985). Gardner (1978) describes a sample method as captivating a representative selection of
the well-defined population through the use of data collected as research information.

Given that the study is qualitative in nature, the majority of evidence was obtained by key
participant interviews with authorities who held first-hand information of the study areas.

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Information gathered through interviews was undertaken with individuals mostly found in both
urban open spaces. This study engaged a convenience sampling method to identify key
participants. Convenience sampling (also identified as accidental sampling) is a form of non-
probability sampling where participants of the target population adhere to positive and practical
standards, such as geographical proximity, availability, accessibility at a given time, or
willingness to partake were incorporated for the purpose of the study (Alkassim, 2016). Thirty-
eight people out of a population of 595 000 were interviewed because different perspectives
and experiences of urban open spaces use were needed to formulate informed arguments and
recommendations. Through purposive sampling, two more professional particiapants were
selected. Forty participants were therefore involved in this study.

Justification of the small sample size for the study was decided after interviews with the first
ten users of the urban open space at Gugu Dlamini Park started to provide similar information,
but the researcher continued to interview nine more which then equalled 19 users at Gugu
Dlamini Park. It then made a precedent for the researcher to also interview 19 users of the
urban open space at Albert Park. After ten interviews with users of the space at Albert Park,
the researcher realised that they were providing similar responses, but for the sake of
strengthening the study, the researcher interviewed nine more participants. The point where the
researcher decided to stop the interviews because of repetition is referred to as saturation
(Lincoln and Guba,1985; Sandelowski,1995; Morse,1994,2007).

(ii) Secondary Data Sources

According to Church (2001), secondary data is information that has not been composed or
explored by those who are examining it. Such sources comprise policies, academic books,
legislation, journal articles, internet sources, government papers, media reports, documents,
weekly articles and focus group deliberations (Creswell, 2009). Walliman (2011) proposes that
a major aspect of employing secondary data is assessing the quality of the evidence or opinions
given. Information from secondary sources is given both historically and present-day data when
examining urban open spaces. It further provided information about the background of the
eThekwini Municipality, land-uses, different zones and its relationship with urban open spaces.

1.7. Problems Encountered with Fieldwork

(i) Funds and Safety
The significant limitation experienced by the researcher was financially constrained. The
researcher needed to visit both urban open spaces on different days which therefore required

6
money for transport and stationery. During the visitation for observation and interviews with
users of these urban open spaces, the researcher was intimidated by homeless people who
occupied the space and from time to time approached him for money. It was a challenge for
the researcher to capture pictures because of vagrants who seemed to be waiting for an
opportunity to rob vulnerable users of the spaces. The study was limited, as the researcher could
not visit the urban open spaces at night due to safety reasons. The element of night observations
was therefore compromised.

(ii) Unavailability of Key Participants

The researcher had initially proposed to interview two officials from eThekwini Municipality
but due to unforeseen circumstances, only one official was interviewed, but this did not
compromise the integrity of the study. Some users of both city open spaces were unwilling to
participate and the researcher had to respect their decision since they were not compelled to
participate.

Irrespective of the challenges discussed above, the study was successful because informed
information was successfully collected from all participants who voluntarily participated in the
study.

1.8. Structure of the Dissertation

Chapter 1: Introduction
This chapter introduces the study project and describes the problems. It further motivates why
the research needed to be conducted. The driving forces of the research are also given in this
chapter and these are indicated as key research questions. The research methodology for the
study is also included in this chapter. The chapter concludes by outlining the dissertation
structure.
Chapter 2: Conceptual Framework
Urban open spaces are an imperative element for the city. The chapter, therefore, provides a
general idea of the evolving of urban open spaces by using different theories that govern the
concept. This chapter also offers an overview of the development and utilitarian approaches in
relation to open spaces.

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Chapter 3: Literature Review
This chapter reviews literature around the world with regard to urban open spaces. It starts with
international case studies with a special focus on Australia in Sydney and then shifts to South
Africa in Johannesburg. The two case studies give a different perspective on how urban open
spaces are utilised in a developed country compared to a developing country. It was discovered
that urban open spaces are guided by different legislations.

Chapter 4: Case Studies

This chapter describes the study area. It shows the location of the study areas, physical analysis,
history, zoning and land-uses adjacent to the study areas. It gives the population and economic
status of the area.

Chapter 5: Research Findings

This chapter deals with the study findings that were based on research questions. On the basis
of the analysis, the information is interpreted and used to draw a conclusion from the research
findings.

Chapter 6: Recommendations and Conclusion

This chapter provides a summary of the research findings grounded on the objectives and key
questions of the study. Recommendations were founded upon the research findings.

1.9 Summary
This section is an introduction and background of the study. The chapter underpins the aim of
the study in that it shares the main research objectives and questions, followed by the used
research methodology. The rationale and limitations of the study were also discussed in this
chapter. The chapter further provides an outline of all the chapters that constitute this
dissertation.

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 Chapter 2

Conceptual and Theoretical Framework

2.1. Introduction

This section involves numerous theoretical and conceptual frameworks to unravel the view of
urban open spaces and formulate the lenses through which city open spaces can be understood.
In comprehensive terms, theoretical components discussed in this section focused on the ideas
of urban power relations. In particular, the following theories were covered: Contemporary
Urban Design Theory, Modernism and Collaborative Planning Theory. The Conceptual
Framework strives to recognise the different concepts that enlighten the phenomenon formed
from the Theoretical Framework.

Urban open space

The understanding of the concept of urban open space is important because the study is centred
on it. There is a range of expressions for and classifications of open space, which relate to the
way they are used and regarded. The most common terms used to describe public open space
are green space, urban park, open space or open areas and public space. There are different
types of open space, namely; soft and hard open spaces. This study focuses on soft open spaces
and other mutual concepts are defined. Soft open spaces are unbuilt, or open spaces within a
settlement, with a mainly vegetated or porous surface (CSIR, 2000).

The word green space is well-defined generally by the European Commission as purely a
linkage of green features, that is a physical infrastructure providing a role in city micro-climate
water organisation, in the city micro-climate and in biodiversity (Atwell, 2005). This
description perceives green space in its modest usage, acknowledging its ecologically
advantageous role, but not offering other services that green space delivers, such as economic,
social, health services or emotional.

Numerous explanations of open space are limited and do not apprehend all essential
components. For example, a common explanation of open space can be established in Amit-
Cohen and Maruani (2007), where it is described as being subject to a natural environment that
involves biotic and abiotic features. In contrast to a built environment, open space usually has
a small level of contribution that has not reformed its natural state and remains to allow the life
of the ecosystem (Amit-Cohen and Maruami, 2007). Nevertheless, there are vital dissimilarities

9
concerning the wide explanation of ‘city open space’ and ‘open space’. For instance, Bengston
(2004) uses the word ‘open space’ to signify all-natural resource parks, comprising of
timberland and countryside, wetlands and wildlife environment as well as attractive sites and
leisure spaces (Bengston, 2004). According to the Durban Metropolitan (2004), city open
spaces are those that are lawfully zoned and socially produced spaces and areas in the city
centre that are established for municipal use, comprising sports arenas, town courts, parks, etc.
The eThekwini Municipality (2002) further states that urban open spaces are formally
constructed zones that are established for communal use. They consist of street reserves,
servitudes for features such as dams and electricity conduction lines.

For the aim of this research, the following definition incorporates these descriptions and argues
that urban open space remains:

A natural scenery zone that can be whether privately or publicly possessed, and that is
for all motives, mostly undeveloped in the city edge. It must offer open space facilities
and contain customarily well-defined ‘green’ areas as well as less customarily well-
defined ‘perspective’ spaces (Sutton,2008).

Diverse definitions of the concept ‘urban open space’ correlates to the way it is currently and
purposely used.

Placemaking
Placemaking is a newly developing concept in the past decade but dates back to studies written
by Jacobs (1961). Placemaking is a planning procedure that purposes to produce not only
effective urban open spaces but a system of spaces that are utilised on a daily basis by the
public and specifically, the ordinary (The Project for Public Spaces, 2011). This is attained by
enlightening the health, physical space and commercial prospects of spaces as well as the
community while planning spaces that are attractive to the municipal (The Project for Public
Spaces, 2011). Wyckoff (2014) describes placemaking as another way of improving the quality
of numerous spaces in a neighbourhood, and by extension, the region and community in which
those places are located as well.

When considering the factors of an effective urban open space, placemaking considers four
key principles: sociability, comfort and image, linkages and access, and activities and uses. The
principles of placemaking are depicted in Figure 2.1. below. Regarding ‘sociability’, open
spaces ought to allow for ethnic, traditional and land-use multiplicity. These spaces ought to

10
be safe during the day to evening. When considering the principle ‘activities and uses’, spaces
must allow for a diversity of activities and uses, thereby attracting many users. The principle
of placemaking, ‘image and comfort’ leads itself to the concept of the image of the city by
Lynch (1960) where the purpose is to establish unique and attractive spaces. This is further
discussed and elaborated in the following sub-section titled ‘‘Imageability’’. The last principle
of placemaking ‘‘linkages and access’’ states that public spaces ought to be accessible to the
public, by private vehicle, public transportation or by foot (The Project for Public Spaces,
2011).

Figure 2.1: Principles of Placemaking

Source: Google (2019)

The principles of placemaking are correlated to the values and philosophies for a sustainable
urban open space. Reiter (2004) notes that coherence, co-existence and contextuality are
deliberated as the principles for a sustainable urban open space. According to Reiter (2004),
contextuality correlates to the user-friendliness and accessibility of urban open spaces while

11
co-existence relates to the warmth, activities and uses within these spaces. Also, coherence
correlates to the image and comfort of the urban open space and thus relates to the notion of
the image of the city (Lynch, 1960). Moreover, placemaking principles revolve around health,
social, environmental and economic factors that are closely related (Gedikli, 2004).

Imageability
According to Kumar (2016), imageability is perceived as an integration of an observer’s
filtered perceptual input of correlated meaning and purpose of continuous interacting process
grounded on organisation, selection, distinctions, and authorisation and relations suggested by
the environment. The city is a mixture of the highest connections of the built mass (form), open
spaces and their spatial organisation (lay-out) in a geographic zone to attain a holistic
environment and pattern, generally built on socio-economic conditions and the lifestyle of the
people, character and nature of activities and the available materials and technologies, which
therefore shapes the overall form and thus image and uniqueness of the place (Pipralia, 2016).

Imageability is related to placemaking and creating a sense of place. It portrays an essential

role in building distinctive urban open spaces. Through city design and the building of a sense
of place and a city image, there will be an improved quality of reactive surroundings and
comprehensible cities (Sparks and Chapman, 1996). According to Flemming (2007), the
municipal jurisdiction is strengthened through city design fundamentals such as lighting, public
facilities, street furniture, wall painting, infrastructure and artwork placed in these open spaces.

The image of a space plays a crucial part in the user’s perspective. Lund (2010) declares that
the reminiscences of urban open spaces bring the user or public back to the space. Urban open
spaces should, therefore, build reminiscences through distinctive characteristics separating the
space from other spaces in the city (Lund, 2010). For example, the user must be able to have
preference between two or more open spaces in a city due to his or her image. The use and
image of urban open spaces are closely related. Sparks and Chapman (1996) note that spatial
qualities and visuals are required to design open spaces that become sustainable. Rubenstein
(1997) notes that design elements such as paving, signage, art, fountains, sculptures, street
furniture and general public services be designed into characteristics of imageability and city
form. Landscaping such as tree gates, fountains, art, sculptures, and plants enhance the
imageability and sense of a place.

Lighting plays a crucial measure in the safety of an urban open space. The presence of more
lighting means more visibility, giving users of urban open spaces an atmosphere of security.

12
During the day, shade to escape the heat of the sun, gives users another sense of comfort
(Sparks and Chapman, 1996). Image or imageability is an important factor when planning and
designing sustainable urban open spaces. By creating sustainable urban open spaces by means
of urban design, sense of place and city image, cities can create a better quality of places
(Sparks and Chapman, 1996).

Right to the City

The study was born out of one of the challenges discussed in the problem statement, which is
vagrancy and safety in urban open spaces. It is a challenge because there are particular
expectations and standards to control open spaces. If it is a challenge to have homeless people
in urban open spaces, where should they go? According to Lefebvre (1996) then, “the right to
the city is like a cry and a demand…a transmuted and transformed right to city life”. Informal
activities in urban open spaces are a cry and indirect demand for urban politicians to embrace
the new current phenomena even though they are against city standards and policies.

Henri Lefebvre’s view of the “right to the city” demands ending the exclusion between social
classes that are decorated in the urban spatial order (Lefebvre, 1996). While the line between
the freedom to enjoy and use neighbourhood space, and the point at which such enjoyment
trespasses on the enjoyment and rights of others, serious focus is needed to settle and manage
planning and development (Chaskin and Joseph, 2010). Community dynamics around
behaviour norms, social control, and the use of space produced by bringing together people of
diverse socio-economic backgrounds in certain settings (Chaskin and Joseph, 2010). It is a
contradiction to the new social movement theory, which stresses that in order to be
transformative, a social movement requests sustained cooperative identity, with reasonably
well-defined boundaries (Dian and Porta, 2006). In order to incorporate groups into social
setting contexts, the well-defined boundaries should be removed and the collective identity
should be attenuated.

The right to the city is intended to advance the welfare of the entire community and primarily
persons who occupy it (Lefebvre, 1996). This, therefore, gives freedom to city occupants to be
liberal but it again disadvantages other users, because there are no limits and extents that are
listed and discussed from Lefebvre’s perspective. Appropriation embraces the right of dwellers
to tangibly access, inhabit and use city space, and so this perception has been the crucial
emphasis of individuals who support the right of people to be actually present in the space in
the city (Isin and Wood, 1999; Capron, 2002; Mitchell and Staeheli, 2002). Nevertheless,

13
Lefebvre visualises appropriation to have an extensive and more physical significance. Not
only is appropriation the right to inhabit existing-produced city space, it is likewise the right to
produce city space so that it meets the desires and necessities of occupants. The challenges
taking place in urban open spaces and other spaces in cities are a cry for alternative approaches,
whether from a design, participation or delivering of projects to make everything relevant since
planning is local.

2.2. Contemporary Urban Design Theory

Urban design has developed and advanced with human development and civilization over
thousands of centuries (Wall and Waterman, 2010). The philosophies and ideologies governing
urban design theory have been moulded and formed by the environment, people, economy and
government. The use of contemporary urban design theory in the study aims to conclude with
the economic, social, political and environmental catalysts for the origins of its principles and
also mainly how it informs and is applicable to the study.

Urban Design
Urbanised areas and cities are the outcome of the practice of development. City zones can be
titled and termed as physical expressions of human ecology (Waldheim, 2006). The creation
of these physical expressions of progress and civilization is perceived nowadays as urban
design. According to Watson (2000), city design is known and well-defined as the skill of
creating towns and cities. Nowadays, the purpose and determination of city design is to advance
the societal relations within built-up spaces, but sustaining economic and ecological needs.
McHarg (1992) explained that it improves and enhances the value of city life. In contrast, urban
design throughout history was used to:

 Compensate for loss of nature

 Economic growth
 Demonstrate man’s power over nature and fellow man

2.2.1. Background of Contemporary Urban Design Theory

The modern urban design theory subsists at a crossroads of urban planning, architecture and
landscape architecture (Moughtin, 2003). It works as a creative, collective procedure among
various disciplines and results in three-dimensional space and urban forms, improving the life
of the city and its citizens (Wall and Waterman, 2010). This theory is concerned with how
places work and look. It came into practice as a result of many urban issues, mainly

14
Work with the Plan utilising Cogitate direct and indirect
landscape ordinary influences of natural environments
harmonics
Combine uses Diversity Create social Variety Consider direct and indirect
and form contact impacts on natural environments
Manage the Appropriate
investment land value
Design for Adaptability Produce an environment where
change everybody can contact and benefit
from the full variety of prospects
offered.
Source: Walton (2000)

a) Places for People

Gehl (2011) notes that good urban open spaces encourage social interactions. Urban spaces
must have a sense of belonging, safety, vibrancy and varieties of use. The area must be easily
accessible to all members of society. This principle advocates that in order for urban open
spaces to be effective, they must have a sense of security and be easily accessible.

b) Enrich the Existing

According to Jacobs (1993) city spaces must counterpart one another’s powers and decrease
weaknesses. Jacobs (1993) further argues that city spaces need to respond and react to their
adjacent environments and create a reciprocatal relationship between the areas.

c) Connect to the Surrounding Urban Fabric

Urban spaces must be reachable and linked to the adjacent transport system and traffic paths
(Rodrigue, 2007). The spaces must function with adjoining passage roads. Nevertheless, space
must not only be tangibly or physically exposed, but likewise visually exposed, accessible and
linked from adjacent land uses (Wall and Waterman, 2010). It must be easy to use an urban
open space and then move on to the next land use, for example, access to nearby rail stations
and malls (Wall and Waterman, 2010).

d) Work the Landscape

According to McHarg (1992) city open spaces work with the landscape, ecology, form, natural
functions and climate. This maintains the attractiveness of the scenery of the space and reduces
energy input and the degree of disruption caused to the space.

16
e) Mixed-use
Urban spaces maximise the spaces by drawing many racial groups, both societal classes and
age groups. The end outcome is the maximisation of the usage of city open spaces on a daily
basis (Jacobs, 1993). Open spaces encourage multi-cultural interactions and the use thereof by
individuals and groups.

f) Management
According to Jacobs (1993) urban spaces must be economically practical, sustainable and
preserved to endure the accomplishment and success of the space. There are usually different
legislations and bylaws in place to regulate urban open spaces and other activities in the
municipal’s jurisdiction. In Chapter three municipal legislation and bylaws are discussed.

g) Design for Change

Urban spaces ought to be reactive to alterations in the city fabric in order to function and be
utilised. A huge measure of versatility is encouraged for the adjustment of use/aim of the space
in the future (Waterman and Wall, 2010). As cities evolve, many land uses change, and city
open spaces must therefore be designed in a manner adaptive to the current dynamics of cities.

2.2.2. Contemporary Urban Design Theory and Urban Open Spaces

Ferraro (2013) asserts that contemporary urban design theory acknowledges the previous
mistakes that were made by past urban planners who assumed the needs of cities. This theory
informed the study because it encourages the creation of urban spaces for multi-cultural groups
which then also acknowledge the need for participation. It is a theory that strongly and critically
focuses on the design of urban open spaces which then provokes many questions about whether
Albert Park (case study) was even planned to be accessed and used by the current city
population. According to Renee (1998), the principles of contemporary urban design theory
ought to be applied to the development and planning procedures for the establishment of public
open spaces as it is an area considered and characterised by multi-cultural communities and
diversity, and in the setting of Gugu Dlamini Park, this dissertation confirmed that such
principles had been applied.

Renee (1998) states that in the ancient planning of public open spaces, was more top-down and
autocratic, founded on a technical rationale for the shared good of an identical public. Through
the arrival and emergence of contemporary planning practices this viewpoint and philosophy
is reversed, and planning from the bottom-up that deliberates the shared and collective good
for a multiplicity of cultures, is encouraged and advocated. The planning of public open spaces

17
in the Durban municipal area should, therefore, embrace the principles and values of
collaborative planning in order to work towards a more applicable and supportable system of
use for urban open spaces.

2.3. Collaborative Planning Theory

There are many definitions for collaborative planning. According to Anshell (2008)
collaborative planning is gathering multiple stakeholders in a mutual environment for
compromise decision-making, while Gray (2000) states that it is a principle that leads to
outcomes by satisfying all participants involved. A relevant definition of city planning is
provided by Habermas (1984), who argues that it is understood as a collaborative procedure
that has the prospective to establish relations and dialogue that will generate new cultural
formations through collaboration rather than through the technical procedures of design,
analysis and control.

Collaborative planning is a power paradigm of stakeholders. To have a successful engagement

with a community, it is the responsibility of the city planner to transfer power to them (Renee,
1998). The provision of adequate information is a form of transferring power in order for them
to make informed decisions. According to Gaffatin (2007) collaborative planners should not
only guide but should also use their expert knowledge to enforce their convincing power. The
planners have a role to value the interests of the people involved more specifically and identify
levels of influence and efforts taken to accommodate the interest of each group (Gaffatin,
2007).

The theory claims that through the collaborative process of including stakeholders and by
following certain guidelines, it guarantees that involvement in town planning is equal, fair and
empowering. This knowledge is concluded from the point that the procedure of collaboration
involves primarily public society-grounded assemblies that can act to lay weight on the
government to act more conscientiously and responsibly; and that collaboration can offer a
learning environment and can serve to construct societal capital within communities (Watson,
2011). This theory, according to Sager (2001), encourages using communication to help the
different interests in the process to understand each other. The arrival of collaborative planning,
according to Pellizzoni (2003), advanced during the 1980s. It was primarily established as a
reaction to the failure of technocratic planning that was built in scientific analysis and
independent expertise and scientific. It developed through the notion of open participation in
planning (Bond, 2011). The collaborative planning theory encourages bringing together crucial

18
participants to address challenging problems in order to formulate new answers (Margerum,
2002). This transmits to advocating for an inclusive involvement process in project
development and design (Margerum, 2002). Collaborative planning is now officially assumed
as a perfect development model in watershed planning, land use planning, controlled rule-
making and city planning in Canada, the United States (Gunton, 2010).

Margerum (2002) explains that the collaborative planning theory is highlighted by principles
that include public participation and involvement, creating a common problem definition or
communal tasks, assisting and facilitating the collaborative process and lastly, organising the
collaborative process in relation to agendas, ground rules and engaging the participants.

2.3.1. Collaborative Planning and Urban Open Spaces

Looking at the relevancy of the study, the collaborative planning theory informs the concept of
designing city open spaces. The research was born out of the perception of the use of city open
spaces and the challenges they face; where current challenges show that there was no
involvement of the users when these spaces were designed. Before any concept is introduced
in cities, stakeholders or beneficiaries of the concept must be involved and not informed. The
theory of collaborative planning emphasises that there must be consensus before delivering any
project to people (Nekwaya, 2007).

Having discussed the contemporary urban design theory and collaborative theory, it is essential
to discuss theories that influenced the designing of space using a logical and rational approach.
This discussion will briefly touch on the modernism theory and how the theory was applicable
in the planning and use of space.

2.4. Modernism and Urban Historical Structure

The idea of modernisation represents the philosophical and logical remnants of the European
age of enlightenment (Duminy, 2007). In Europe, it advanced as a mechanism that was
anticipated to determine in the middle of the industrialised selfish intentions of accumulation
and the inadequately organised making space that was developing in the form of cities (Saff,
2004). Serious indicators that characterised the industrial city included physical dilapidation
and the general distresses that the employed class suffered (Preston, 1996).

The essential philosophies of modernist planners were also to be attained by a spatial model.
In development spheres, this spatial model entailed the making of splendid strategies and plans
(in the method of blueprints) that were anticipated to lead development (Preston, 1996). It is in
these strategies that awareness and well-designed zoning ideas were voiced. These were

19
intended to lead spatial developments. These strategies and plans showed significance,
seriousness and rigid self-rule in the towns that were to arise.

The modernist movement in city organisation was grounded on utility, for example, with
worries of technology and efficiency (CSIR, 2005). This intended that city life structures
remained categorised into various groups of activity, for example, toil areas, residential, leisure
and entertainment movements. In many zones, modernism models instigated spatial separation
founded on these activities (CSIR, 2005).

As soon as logical systematic methods of development were banished by new development

philosophies, the conviction was that the societal revolution was the solution to the difficulties
and harms of the urban zones (Watson, 2002). The next approaches of planning controlled the
developmental model landscape, for example, communicative planning theory (Watson, 2002);
radical planning, advocacy planning and participatory planning (Todes, 2011). These planning
theories started as an outcome of planning actions that led to the marginalisation and
displacement of the underprivileged in urban areas; gender differences increased criminality in
strategic and well-organised communities and the opinion that these design concepts were
understood to be endorsing only the benefits of the better-off residents (Todes, 2011).

However, design development concentrated merely on normative planning by the close of the
1970’s and the following tactics of planning were actually used (Hudson, 1979):

A. Collaborative planning: is centred on consensus building and place-making among all

participants involved (Harrison, 2006). The collaborative viewpoint understands the
city and developer as intermediary between various participants in the planning
procedure (Fainstein, 2000).
B. Just Town approach: is founded on spatial justice in the urban, it focuses on making an
urban appearance that is established on collaboration and centralisation of government
influences (Fainstein, 2000).
C. Radical activism is grounded on relations of societal philosophies in order to achieve
instant outcomes and it condemns the part of the government in the making of societal
difficulties (Hudson, 1979).
D. Incremental planning advocates that planning is done over discussions among policy-
making groups and it is built on knowledge and sensitivity of the planner (Hudson,
1979). Incremental academics depend on renewal of ancient commercial models
(Fainstein, 2000).

20
 E. Transactive planning encourages public consultation and the improvement of their
objectives and benefits. It results in common learning and understanding while
progressing the objective of the public (Hudson, 1979). However, an advocacy planner
contests using lawful strategies for societal justice while encouraging the interests of
minority groups.

Nevertheless, some people trust that modernisation failed the unindustrialised or emerging
domain which has its irreplaceable structures that are dissimilar from the American and
European settings that were the central influencers of modernisation planning theories
(Watson, 2002). Modernisation plans were fragile in economic and social investigation of traits
that form metropolises (Harris, 1983). Planning urban open spaces using foreign approaches
will always result in diverse challenges because they become irrelevant to the local context.

2.4.1. Modernism and Urban Open Spaces

The postmodernism theory can be assumed as a response against the philosophies, concepts
and values of modernism, as well as a depiction of the period that followed modernism's
governance and control in social theory and exercise in the initial and middle eras of the
twentieth period (Berg, 1993). According to Renee (1998), Durban's open spaces were based
on green conservationism and standardised rules in the late 1970s with modernism as the
dominant philosophy based on scientific reasoning and rationality. To present and current
recognition of complexity, the dynamic nature of urban processes was embraced by
postmodernism.

Renee (1998) argues that the influences of rational decision-making which were adopted in the
1970s still remain influential today. Practically, modernism is still the approach that is utilised
to deliver projects. Urban open spaces are created with no influence of postmodernism but
rationally which is modernism. According to Beauregard (1989), in reality, modernist planning
is incompatible with spatial problematic, and the modern movement has lost credibility due to
physical degradation, urbanisation, chaos and many miseries caused in cities. However,
practitioners still cleave to modernist customs and traditions in an attempt to implement their
master plans. This has resulted in this study, to examine the utilisation of urban open spaces
and how people also relate with space regardless of the fact that they are the result of modernist
planning.

21
2.5. Approaches to Viewing Open Space
There are two identified approaches to observing open space, for each with explanation of the
diversity of roles that open space affords. They are the development and utilitarian approaches.

2.5.1. Development Approach

The development approach perceives open spaces by means of alternatives for impending
expansion. The approach is related to economic approach, where monetary benefits
developments are valued and it is an approach most often considered by public entrepreneurs
and developers (Amit-Cohen and Maruani, 2007). According to Babbit (2005), developers
preserve open areas to intensify the property worth of the surrounding environment by
improving the visual appeal of adjacent property. Even though conservation of open areas may
be initiated in a development approach to strengthen property price, it is frequently the instance
that commercial gains of developing open areas exceed these concerns (Amit-Cohen and
Maruani, 2007).

Nevertheless, development is naturally irremediable and can decrease in value over time. In
contrast, continually conserved open space is a non-depreciating asset with accumulative gains
after a while (Kritilla and Fisher, 1975). Regrettably, the development approach disagrees with
this long-term interpretation. Schmidt (2008) notes that even though there has been imperfect
attainment in green pricing, there is a natural struggle in trying to place a fee on environmental
amenities such as habitat protection or biodiversity, and hence what is measurable, such as
development will practically constantly win.

2.5.2. Utilitarian Approach

Schmidt (2008) notes that the utilitarian approach prioritises open space completely looking at
the services and benefits that it offers for public use. It perceives open spaces as amenity
suppliers and stresses the necessity to preserve a simple level of open space in order to continue
providing these services and benefits (Amit-Cohen and Maruani, 2007).

Public open spaces empower environmenal functions with many indirect and direct benefits,
such as flood protection and micro-climate guideline, which should assist as an explanation for
conservation. Nevertheless, while it is hard to allocate value to open space services and
benefits, it can be debated that since people cannot live deprived of them, the total value of
open space and ecosystem benefits are unlimited or infinite (Fausold and Lilieholm, 1999).

The problem arises in this approach where only those spaces that are freely recognised as
having human function are conserved, which reflects that spaces with other forms of functions

22
and values are overlooked. For instance, if the open space use that is valued is health or a
recreational function and is sport-focused, then other vital services such as ecological and
ecosystem uses, would be lost (Fausold and Lilieholm, 1999).

2.6. Summary
This section involved numerous theoretical and conceptual frameworks to untangle the view
of city open spaces and formulate the lenses through which city open spaces can be understood.
It showed the idea of urban power, particularly in the use of the modernism theory which can
be viewed as an apartheid tool. In the post-modernism age, contemporary planning was
initiated because there was a shared involvement of people and powers.

23
 Chapter 3
Literature Review

3.1 Introduction

The determination of this section is to review the literature around the topic by several scholars
regarding the use, benefits and access to urban open spaces. This is done by examining
international practices (specifically Australia and Kenya) before shifting the focus to South
Africa.

3.2. Benefits of Urban Open Spaces

In the last decade there has been less publication on the profits and benefits of open spaces in
the South African writing or journal of regional planning. As a result of shortage in exploration
on this subject does not signify that there are none concerns nor challenges; reasonably it
depicts the absence of concern in public open space resolutions throughout this preceding
period.

Globally although, numerous information has been recorded and transcribed about the various
use and gains that urban open space development and planning offer in urban areas. This
welfare and benefit can be arranged according to the next classes:
A. Planning Advantages
B. Economic Advantages
C. Social Advantages
D. Ecological
(Nijkamp & Baycan-Levent, 2009)

Some authors have categorised these benefits in a rather different way, but this does not
eliminate the point that such benefits are real (Flores, et al., 1998).

24
3.2.1. Social Benefits of Urban Open Space

The societal profits and benefits of open spaces comprise the rewards that communal open
space possess for societies. These qualities improve societal characteristics of human life in
metropolises and consist of the following:

A. Health
B. Environmental justice and equity
C. Liveability
D. Places for social integration

3.2.1.1. Health Benefits

According to Lee (2008), public open spaces encompass characteristics that offer relaxation,
anxiety liberation and mental fitness and all these can be regarded as health benefits. Ulrich
(1999) recognised that the planning community identified health benefits which are connected
to urban open spaces but it certainly does not impact urban planning (Beer, 2003).
Nevertheless, what planners need to realise is that there are some benefits that have the potential
to be improved when they are combined with further planning purposes (Beer, 2003). For
instance, designers may perhaps improve the likelihood of people using an open space by
ensuring that city open spaces are accessible. How society relates and communicates to the city
open space cannot be controlled by a planner, but accepting that there is an aspect that needs
to be well thought through is significant to city planning (Mashalaba, 2013).

Although it is not the aim of this research to discover the relationship concerning public health
and active lifestyle, it is essential for urban developers to realise that the prospects that
communal open space offers, can nurture an active lifestyle for the public. A journal termed
“A Walk in the Park” indicates that an effortlessly reachable and well-designed open space can
benefit obese UK peoples (Written, 2008). Research from a health viewpoint confirms that
easy accessibility to a beautiful and big open space upsurges the usage (by walking) of city
open spaces (Giles-Corti, 2005). Conflicting to this discovery nonetheless is that, in Hiscock,
Pearce, Blakely and New Zealand, it is proved that there is no sufficient proof that submits
linking access to an open space and physical activity (Written, 2008).

3.2.1.2. Environmental Justice and Equity

Ferris (2001) assumed that the use of city open spaces is strictly connected to ecology,
environmental equity and justice. Public open spaces improve societal and environmental

26
justice by generating equivalent prospects to numerous individuals and hence offering a space
of liberty and attachment (Cabe Space, 2005). Urban open spaces provide a platform for
expressing justice and equity for different individuals and groups.

3.2.1.3. Urban Liveability

Cabe Space (2005) mentions that the renewal and revival of open space is similarly represented
as the word ‘liveability’, it entails the enhancement of value of life in a community. City
liveability can be shown by the suggestion of activities within public open spaces which
contains the company of families, but they are quick to leave if the environments are poor. This
is mainly accurate in research that was conducted in Belgium, in that way, as far back as the
late 1980s, there had remained an outmigration of households with teenagers from city centres
towards out-of-town zones because of the poor value of city life in the city centres (Van Herzele
and Wiedemann, 2003).

Urban liveability can likewise be shown through environmental factors, contained in the
unobtrusiveness of a neighbourhood, healthy air and visually attractive city open spaces in a
walkable distance (Van Herzele and Wiedemann, 2003). In research done in 1998 by Tratsaert,
it was established that in Leuven the shortage of open city spaces remained the key motive for
society to abandon the city, and the people moving were regarding the city green zone and
quiet neighbourhood on the borders of the city (Van Herzele and Wiedemann, 2003).

3.2.1.4. Places for Social Integration

Some have encouraged public open spaces as a tool and vehicle of social integration, such as
in Berlin’s Potsdamer Platz, which is intended to rectify the wounds of the dividing line that
was enforced on the city for years (Sorkin, 1992). In the context of South Africa, during the
apartheid era, the use of urban open spaces was restricted to a few because the blacks were not
even allowed to be in urban areas (Bénit-Gbaffou,2018).

3.2.2. Economic Benefits

The economic significance and worth of urban open spaces denotes direct benefits
(compensating for recreation amenities); unforeseen benefits (spill-over benefits from health;
absence of criminality and commercial opportunities); and finally figurative worth (sense of
place) (Cabe Space, 2005).

A. It improves the economic impact of recreation; festivals and leisure, which may attract
people into the space and hence improve local tourism.

27
 B. Attract an economically dynamic labour force and trade, thereby encouraging private
investments.
C. City open spaces express communities by cultivating a neighbourhood sense of
belonging and identity.
D. They improve local property values.

3.2.2.1. The Impact of Public Open Spaces on Property Values

It appears to be a common agreement among scholars that city open spaces improve assets
significance (Molly and Owusu-Edusei, 2001; Poudyal, 2009; Robert Wood Johnson
Foundation, 2010). Nevertheless, this agreement still needs to be verified as it distresses cities
and emerging nations that do not have a solid assets economy subject and controlled by the
underprivileged in the city (Mashalaba, 2013).

Although, because of a common covenant on the worth of city open space subsists, it is
essential for city developers to examine the kind of city open spaces which will be of a food
use to the diverse kinds of societies and neighbourhoods (Voicu and Been, 2008). For instance,
a maintained public garden (as a kind of city open space) will possess an encouraging and
progressive influence on the assets values of an inferior neighbourhood (Voicu and Been,
2008).

It is also important to be aware of the setting or background of the region and the influence
municipal green spaces hold on values across the diverse categories of physical structures.
Research conducted in Scotland, Aberdeen presented that there is a variance in the way in
which assets values reacted to the nearness of city open spaces, for example, the value of high
density buildings would upsurge with closeness to city open space, however, it was untrue for
other categories of housing (Dehring, 2006).

According to Shively (2009), city open spaces hold an encouraging influence on property but
there are two causes that can reduce the financial worth of the property. The prominent cause
is non-maintenance of open spaces and also decline of revenue from prospective property
development when buildable plot is conserved as open space.

3.2.2.2. Economic Efficiency

In order to create economic value from urban open spaces requires native authorities to make
stern decisions. By delivering merits in small quantity and that will be appreciated, local rulers

28
take the opportunity and turn societal worth of communal space into commercial usage (Cabe
Space, 2005).

The following signifies characteristics that hold an influence on the economic benefits of open
spaces (Cabe Space, 2005):

A. There is a constructive link concerning the park dimension and its zone of effect in
relation to development prices.
B. Fenced open spaces have a minor influence as equated to squares that are optically
appealing and are linked to road systems.

C. Height of structures and the impact of design and lay-out planning: obstructed vistas
could initiate a lesser value influence of open spaces except there are views that
enrich vista openness.

3.2.3. Urban Open Space Management

Mashalaba (2013) notes that similar to some other land use, city open spaces require land
management policy for them to be suitable within the built environment. There exists
conservational initiatives for urban open spaces. These ingenuities vary from plan, legislature,
and planning standards that rule a city’s assets. In countries like Sweden, there is a movement
to privatise and commercialise city open spaces through housing firms (Lindgrey, 2008). In
Chapter three of this study some of the legislation for managing urban open spaces are
discussed.

3.2.3.1. Land Use Zoning

Management comes in diverse forms, which comprise site management and also include
planned land use management (Mashalaba, 2013). Strategic environmental assessment and
physical planning retain a manner of categorising zones that require protection and
preservation. Conway (2006) does not consider common land use guidelines to be effective in
keeping the links of passages to open spaces. Conway (2006) established her valuation on the
below three categories of land use guidelines:

A. Water and wetland buffers

B. Densification of land uses or cluster zoning
C. Down-zoning
Zoning laws have an important influence on the manner city open spaces are coordinated, used
and established (Tang and Wong, 2008). If the zoning bylaws are unclear in the manner they

29
describe city open spaces, there is destined to be misperception in the way in which
development plans are permitted. For instance, a study led by Nicol and Blake (2000)
discovered that local experts have a habit of giving greater green worth in sport fields and parks
than to other places of advanced biomass which might not appreciate the rank of official city
open space, for instance, vacant land. They commend that city open spaces must likewise be
categorised in relations of their type of land cover and biotic qualities.

Significant reflections in the design and planning of linkages of soft open space are: (a)
quantity, (b) location (how much space there should be relative and complementary to other
land uses), (c) connection (how singular spaces should connect with each other), and (d)
vegetation (the nature of surfaces, and the balance between “pristine” and “artificial”
landscapes) (CSIR, 2002).

3.2.4. Ecological Benefits of Urban Open Space

As stated by Mashalaba (2013), the ecological welfare of open spaces are those roles of spaces
that enhance the environment and maintain natural resources which remain essential to
withstand the lives of all existing plants and human life.

3.2.4.1. Conservation
Conservation subdivisions (CSDs) are a strategy that tries to reserve the entire, buildable areas
of parcel as public open space for people (Arendt, 1996). In a conservation sub-division,
preferably, 50 to 70 per cent of the land that is buildable is set apart as uncluttered space by
assembling households on the established lots of land. The idea is to group households together
to benefit from the open space while sustaining city biodiversity (Hostetler and Drakeb, 2008).
The communal profits of conservation sub-divisions consist of the following:

A. Lessening of demand for community open spaces (Carter, 2009)

B. Preserving of habitats and biodiversity
C. Protection of river ecosystems and storm-water management

3.3. An International Experience on Urban Open Spaces

The aim of this section is to establish the extent of how urban open spaces are used and
perceived internationally. The discussion has focused on a developed and developing country.
Australia was used as a developed country and the focus was on Sydney, and for a developing
country, Kenya was used, with Nairobi as a location of the case study. The shift finally focused
on the South African experience.

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3.3.1. Urban Open Space in Hype Park-Australia
Urban open spaces cover a huge portion of Australian cities. For instance, a study of Ballarat,
Victoria found that 13 percent of the city was zoned as a conservational and recreational park,
and a total of 28 per cent of the city was covered in trees with a further 24 per cent of the city
shielded in grassland (Kendal, 2012). This shows that the city prioritises the use of urban open
spaces.

Hyde Park is located on the eastern outskirts of the central business district of Sydney in
Australia. Hyde Park was originally used as an open area for recreation and sports during the
first colony. The space was given numerous names such as ‘The Common’, the ‘Exercising
Ground’, the ‘Cricket Ground’ and the ‘Race Course’, until in 13 October 1810 when Governor
Macquarie officially divided the zone after the area and called the space ‘Hyde Park’, after the
infamous London Hyde Park (City of Sydney Website, 2008).

Map 3.1: Hyde Park lay-out

Source: Google maps 2019

The growth of Hyde Park over the past 80 years has produced the distinctive and unique space
appreciated today with over 600 trees including 122 fig trees along the central avenue of the
park and an extensive group of fauna species and flora (City of Sydney website). The only
remnants of the original Hyde Park is the vast chess set that features along the western side of
the park (City of Sydney website, 2008).

31
Image 3.1 Fig trees, various landscaping chess set
Source: Truong 2008
3.3.1.1. The Use of Hyde Park
According to Truong (2008), Hyde Park is actually one of the most unique spaces found in
Sydney city and it is mostly visited because of its horticulture. Its visual beauty brings a truly
distinct character that is remarkable and stands out amongst Sydney city’s countless open
spaces (Johnson, L., Interview on 19 September 2008). Jan Gehl regards Hyde Park as the
green lung of the city (Gehl, 2007, p. 83). An oasis for peace and tranquillity alongside the
eastern border of the city. Its function and role as a space is similar to that of Central Park in
New York and Hyde Park of London (Truong, 2008). In short, Hyde Park can be considered
as a landmark in Sydney because of its location and the visitors that continually utilise it. The
urban open space is also used and presumed as a space of peace (Truong, 2008).

Image 3.2 Hyde Park lay-out - highlighting entrances

Source: PPS 2006 pp. 4

Image 3.2. depicts the park having numerous entries that are all visibly defined with solid
legible definitions. These entry points offer a grand character that calls users into the succulent
display of greenery. Truong (2008) notes that the granite walls that border the east, west and
south borders clearly mark where the park begins and finishes. Entrances connect to railway
stations and streets, increasing pedestrian opportunities for embarking at the park, with the

32
streets harnessing perfect views to the entrances, building good permeability (Truong, 2008).
Hyde Park shows that in order to have effective urban open spaces, it is essential that
accessibility is prioritised for easy movement and use.

A range of users are engrossed and attracted to Hyde Park extending from workers and local
residents to international tourists (Truong, 2008). Many are attracted to Hyde Park because of
its sheer loveliness and tranquillity in a busy city and Hyde Park frequently acts as a
thoroughfare for people, with a lot of people using the space to escape the pollution and the
noise of the city (PPS, 2006). According to Truong (2008) it is the same reason countless people
use the space as a place for socialising, relaxation, exercising, eating lunch, etc. Truong (2008)
notes that bench seats and passive seating opportunities are present throughout the park
permitting users to sit down to appreciate the scenery and great views of Sydney’s vista. The
existence of street furniture in the park provides an opportunity for users to comfortably enjoy
the space. The space also acts as a barrier to noise and pollution.

Image 3.3. Various artworks at Hyde Park

Source: Truong 2008

Image 3.3. shows the unique character of Hyde Park; a large number of public artworks,
ranging from small memorial stones to large decorations and large water features, are
displayed. The collective artworks embrace numerous meanings with the majority in memory
of World War One. Some of the history of Sydney and these artworks are not only visually
exciting, but they also act as important points for users to identify and interact with Hyde Park
as a space. They consist of the Lake of Reflections, ANZAC War Memorial, Archibald fountain
and the Egyptian furnished obelisk (Truong, 2008). The artworks in urban open spaces attract
users to utilise the spaces and also reflect on the history behind them. This shows that the
existence of historical artwork in urban open spaces attracts users to have an educative
experience.

33
Even though there is a lack of passive surveillance from adjoining edges, the park does not
have safety and security issues due to the high number of users throughout the day (Truong,
2008). This, therefore, brings relief to the users of this urban open space since they can enjoy
the space without thinking about their safety. It is essential to also discuss the legislative
framework that guides and monitors urban open spaces (urban green area) in Australian cities.
3.3.2. Legislation and Urban Open Space –Australia
Urban open spaces are special areas that are protected by certain legislative frameworks.
According to the Director of National Parks (DNP) (2015), the Australian Government leases
permits and licenses in agreement with the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC) and the related management plan for the reserve urban open
spaces (parks).

Protecting the natural environment increases awareness of the relations between health,
physical activity and access to open space; and the growing demand for safety, quality and
access to recreational facilities (NSW Government 2010b, p. 21). The importance of protecting
open spaces is to bring awareness about the vital role they play in promoting health and physical
activity for city users.

The Sydney Environmental Plan 2012 makes provision in agreement with the appropriate
customary conservation development tool under section 33A of the Act. The specific purposes
of this plan are below:

 To guard and to improve the enjoyment of the natural environment of the City of
Sydney, its harbour location and its leisure zones.
 To encourage ecologically sustainable development.
 To protect the environmental tradition of the City of Sydney.
 To develop the amenity and value of life of local people.

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999

The Act is Australia’s key domestic legislature for the protection of the environment. The
objectives of the EPBC Act (Section 3(1)) are:

 To promote the conservation of biodiversity.

 To deliver for the conservation and protection of culture.
 To be responsible for the security of the atmosphere, exclusively those characteristics
of the atmosphere that are matters of domestic ecological importance.

34
  To encourage environmentally supportable growth by economically maintainable use
of natural resources and preservation.
Australian Environmental Legislation
Environmental legislation discourages any activities that negatively affect the environment.
There are permits that are issued for any activity on the environment. Below is the discussion
of the protected areas.
Protected Areas
Protected areas are subject to more strict protection than is provided by common environmental
protection legislation. Usually you have to get a permit or approval to conduct scientific activity
in protected zones.

There are many types of environmentally protected areas in Australia, including but not limited
to:

 biosphere reserves
 Ramsar sites
 national parks, managed by the Commonwealth, states, territories and local
governments
 nature reserves and regional parks
 marine parks
 World Heritage-listed areas
 state conservation areas

The above-mentioned aims show that sustainability and conservations are not only prioritised
from national level but also from the municipal level as the city of Sydney also protects
instruments that conserve biodiversity.

(i) Lesson learned

The eThekwini municipality can learn from Hyde Park in Australia. The urban open space is
well-designed and offers easy access to users. It is essential to provide entrances to such spaces
from more than one direction so that users can exit to other essential adjacent land uses. The
urban open space at Hyde Park also offers artwork, where users are not only attracted by the
green nature of the space but also the sculptures that are within the space. The urban open space
offers street furniture which brings comfort for users of the park. The eThekwini Municipality
can learn that street furniture completes the satisfaction of users since they are not limited to

35
walking only, but they are able to sit and meditate. It is also imperative to articulate how city
open spaces are used in developing countries. Christina Wangari Garden in Kenya was made a
case study.

3.4. Urban Open Space in Christina Wangari Garden-Kenya

Christina Wangari Garden was originally known as the Coronation garden. It is a historic site,
which is in the heart of Thika Town (Njambi, 2014). The garden was named after a prominent
woman freedom fighter, Wangari who was involved in the fight for the country’s liberation. It
is a public site and no fee is charged to use the garden. The garden was designated as a public
open space in 1942 by colonial management when the populace of the town was merely 10 000
persons (Njambi, 2014).

According to Njambi (2014), the Coronation Garden was changed to Christina Wangari Garden
in 1963 after liberation owing to the parts of colonisation. Its management and uses have
evolved over time; initially, it was a neglected, undeveloped open space that was primarily
used by street families (Njambi, 2014). As time passed, under the management of the municipal
council, presently the sub-country, massive development, an improvement in the garden have
been experienced and witnessed (Njambi, 2014).

Christina Wangari Garden is situated in the Central Business District in the middle of Kwame
Nkrumah Road, Kenyatta Highway, Correctional Street, and Uhuru Street, opposite the Thika
sub-county main offices. The map below depicts the location of the case study from a local
perspective.

36
Map 3.3. Depiction Problems
Source: Njambi (2014)

3.4.2. Legislation and Urban Open Space - Kenya

The use of Christina Wangari Garden involves three categories of legislation. These include
Acts of Parliaments, Thika Sub-Country Bylaws and the Kenyan Constitution (the most
superior law in the land).

3.4.2.1. The Constitution of Kenya

The Constitution of Kenya in Chapter four, Bill of Rights, Article 54 part C on the rights of
persons with disabilities obliges all designs to warrant reasonable access by these people to all
places. These essential necessities or requirements have not been applied in Christina Wangari
Garden. The majority of the gates in the urban open space cannot be accessed by people in
wheelchairs; and toilets are also not favourable for such people. The design of Christina
Wangari Garden is selective and discriminates against children, elderly citizens and the
physically challenged which is unlawful (Njambi, 2014). According to the Constitution of
Kenya in Chapter 4, everyone must easily be able to access urban open spaces, but at Christina
Wangari Garden the design of the urban open space limits access to certain groups of people.

38
3.4.2.2. Environmental Management and Coordination Act CAP (No. 8 of 1999)
The Act offers the establishment of a suitably recognised legal structure for the supervision of
environmental matters. It aims to encourage a clean, harmless and healthy atmosphere. Section
7 of the Act affords the establishment of the national environmental management and
coordination authority (NEMA). Section 58 of this Act states that all development plans that
are expected to have a negative influence on the environment are to undergo an environmental
impact assessment before commencement. This Act shows the essential need for protecting
green spaces in Kenya which also includes urban open spaces in the country.

3.4.2.3. Local Legislations (Thika Sub-Country Bylaws)

The Environmental Department manages public parks in Thika Sub-Country. According to the
bylaws, littering in parks and elsewhere in the town is strictly prohibited. Regardless of having
this bylaw, the Sub-Country of Thika has not provided trash containers for the Christina
Wangari Garden (Njambi, 2014). This shows a clear disconnection between the bylaws and the
Sub-Country to facilitate such a requirement. The bylaw further restricts nail painting and
saloon activities in parks. According to Njambi (2014), during weekends when there is low
supervision, a lot of these types of activities are evident in the garden.

3.4.2.4. Planning Policies of Public Park in Thika

There are several policies that affect the use of public parks in Thika town which include:
National Urban Development Policy, Vision 2030, Physical Planning Handbook 2008, Thika
Strategic Plan and Nairobi Metro 2030 Plan.

Physical Planning Handbook 2008: It gives the planning condition for public parks in the
urban area. This planning policy precisely clarifies the land budgeting for public parks as 1-2
hectares of land for every 10 000 people. It further gives facilities required for an urban open
space. This policy suffers diverse setbacks since it does not explain the planning requirement
for different parks hierarchy from neighbourhood to metropolitan level, as well as the office
mandated to manage urban open spaces is not familiar with this document, therefore its
requirements are not well implemented (Njambi, 2014).

National Urban Development Policy: This planning policy states the land conditions for
recreational land use for urban open spaces but there is silence when it comes to the
requirements for an explanation for different parks and sporting facilities such as stadiums.

39
Nairobi Metro 2030 Plan and Vision 2030: These two policies propose the revitalisation of
urban open spaces in Kenya and use a sustainable approach in utilisation and management.
These policy strategies and guidelines borrow a lot from international policies such as The
Brundtland Report on sustainability and Millennium Development Goals on sustainable
development (Njambi,2014). Both policies were adopted in order to improve the sustainability
of urban open spaces.

(i) Lesson learned

The eThekwini Municipality can learn a few things from the Christina Wangari Garden's urban
open space even though there are more challenges in the space. The urban open space is well
populated with adequate trees that provide shade for users. The majority of the areas of the
space possess vegetation that is well maintained. As stated there are more challenges than
benefits in the space. The urban open space fails to carry the demand of city users which then
results in overcrowding. The space is poorly designed when compared with Hyde Park in
Australia. Christina Wangari Garden lacks adequate open areas in the park, and also limits
access to physically challenged people. There are no facilities such as benches, fountains and
shelters. Some entrances to the urban open space are blocked by vehicles as shown in Map 3.3.
The urban open space lacks a sense of beauty and attraction. The discussion will now focus
locally in South Africa.

3.5. Urban Open Spaces in South Africa

The state in South Africa today is a mixture of speedy urbanisation and inequalities due to
apartheid. The informal settlements and townships are unhygienic and severely lacking in
recreational facilities and public open space. There is an imbalance in the establishment of open
spaces, particularly for active recreation. The central urban area and recognised residential
zones are well placed and well managed. The providing of open spaces has been in terms of
convenient standards based on 'horticulture tradition' rather than an attained balance between
environmental sustainability and user-need. The establishment of public open space in
townships and informal areas was generally leftover space not appropriate for development or
'recreational and sports field' facility standards with slight concern for the biophysical setting
or the needs of the user community. Furthermost open spaces have either been squatted on or
have declined into littered useless wastelands (Hindson, et al., 1995; IPS, 1997).

40
South Africa has a designated system that influences how spaces are used which is called a
MOSS. It is essential to discuss it since this study focuses on the current and purposed use of
urban open spaces.

3.5.1. Metropolitan Open Space Systems

The Metropolitan Open Space System (MOSS) is fundamentally the logical classification of
open spaces and zones in the urban environment. It is outlined in the South African
Metropolitan Spatial Development Framework (2000), as an interconnected and controlling
system of open space, that helps relations concerning economic, social and environmental
activities, improving both human settlements and ecological developments. A MOSS entails
private and public spaces, precisely undeveloped ordinary spaces, developed spaces,
undisturbed natural spaces, disturbed and unspoiled environmental green areas. Some of the
objectives of MOSS plans is that the ultimate open space system is the outcome of a planning
procedure that is publicly motivated, serving and aiding the public (JMOSS, 2002). The
establishment of a MOSS indicates that open space is appreciated and respected in its
identifiable right and is well-planned and integrated into the city setting.

An important characteristic of a MOSS is possessing a functional and operative green area

system. Open space systems are well-described structures of diverse categories of open space
that act as a rational whole (Corday, 2006). They frequently contain passages or greenways
that link various surroundings and open zones, so that places are connected other than
inaccessible (Cook, 1991).

Urban open spaces are confronted with different challenges as it was discovered from Hyde
Park in Australia, it is fundamental for the study to also deliberate on challenges in the South
African context.

3.5.2. Current Challenges of Urban Open Spaces in South Africa

According to the South African Cities Network (2016), the current reality suggests that green
infrastructure and urban green spaces are often sacrificed and neglected. Urban developments
are often prioritised because of the monetary value reflected in property rates, profits from
developments, high taxes and increased market price for land (Cilliers, et al., 2015). In contrast,
green open spaces are professed to have little or no monetary value (Cilliers and Timmermans,
2014), and are only considered a visual quality, and not a necessity. According to Mchunu
(2016), a growth of informality is taking place, particularly in Durban municipal areas. He
further states that open spaces are misused by the Shembe church which acts contrary to what

41
they intended or against their zoning designations. The existing lack of communal unity
between residents and users of the inner-city (Simone, 2004) has destabilised the level of social
control within urban public parks which results in allowing unlawful activities such as
muggings and drug-dealing to occur in many instances within these spaces.

Pillay and Pahlad (2014) explicitly indicate that numerous recreational parks and preserved
spaces in the South Durban Area (SDA) remain under-utilised or not used at all by citizens
because of lack of maintenance. Numerous discoveries also support claims that local people
progressively perceive open spaces in residential zones as insecure and unsafe (Jim & Chen,
2006; Perry, 2008; Omoleke, 2012; Sreetheran and van den Bosch, 2014). Accessibility, social
and environmental issues are some of the challenges for proper use of public parks. However,
the challenges of accessibility to public parks, mostly in residential areas of cities are least
explored (Honiball, 2016).

The challenges encountered in city open spaces indirectly motivate the importance of the state
to prioritise planning such spaces.

3.5.3. Importance of Planning for Urban Open Spaces

Statistics South Africa projected a mid-year population of 52, 98 million persons in South
Africa by 2013, significantly more than the projected mid-year population of 50, 59 million
people in 2011. Many people are shifting from country side regions to municipal zones
resulting in an escalation in urbanisation. Quick urbanisation, which signifies the rising
quantity of persons in the city space can initiate great force and pressure on the city
environment (Pacione, 2005). Furthermore, it places challenges for service delivery from the
government, threats to ecological and health concerns and exacerbates criminality
(Nevhutanda, 2007). The problem is clearly that there is a growing population with insufficient
space. As an effect of quick urbanisation, the land set apart for the use of open spaces is being
used to construct and deliver family units for the increasing populace resulting in the value of
life in the city setting not being taken into account.

Fast and continuous development also impacts park accessibility and propinquity destructively.
Accessibility hold two principles: a spatial component (reflecting the distribution of the
activities) and a temporal element (proximity between two points or the travel time)
(Pasaogullari and Doratli, 2004). It is essential that when local municipalities design parks that
both these characteristics of accessibility are considered in order to ensure that all people have
adequate access to parks nearby (Pasaogullari and Doratli 2004). The use of urban open spaces

42
is encouraged by easy access and less travelling time and this is expounded more in Chapter
five of this study.

The key challenge with many of the present green spaces is the absence of amenities and
preservation by metropolises, resulting in the space having an unappealing, unattractive and
uninviting feeling (Parker, 2014). Hence it is isessential to plan for urban open spaces in
reaction to pressures of urbanisation.

Sandton Central Park in Johannesburg will be used as a case study, which is in South Africa.
This gives a perspective about the local experience of city open spaces.

3.5.4. Sandton Central Park

Map 3.4: Sandton Central Park

Source: Google maps 2019

The Sandton CBD is located within Region E of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan
Municipality. The Sandton node can be considered as the financial area of South Africa as well
as a mixed-use node offering a variety of guesthouses, hotels, employment opportunities,
transportation networks and shopping centres. The Sandton node is encouraged and
strengthened by the existence of head offices of larger companies in South Africa such as Rand
Merchant Bank, Standard Bank, the Industrial Development Corporation and the South African
Breweries (City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, 2010).

The Sandton Central Park, as shown in Map 1 is situated at the intersection of two mobility
roads. Furthermore, Sandton City, a node in the area is found up the road from the site along
5th Street. Sandton Central Park moreover, is accessible to the public due to the bus network

43
and Gautrain Station by the Sandton CBD up 5th Avenue at the intersection on Rivonia Road
(City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, 2010).

3.5.5. The Use of Sandton Central Park

The discussion on how Sandton Central Park is used will be deliberated under three factors,
namely; economic, social and environmental factors.
(a) Economic Factors
The park is appropriate in terms of its linkages and accessibility but does not accommodate any
economic opportunities to the point that the urban open space does not offer a varied range of
activities and uses (Shelton, 2016). Economic activities may include a place of refreshment and
a jungle gym for children.

According to Shelton (2016), Sandton Central Park is situated on each of its Sub Areas within
the Region E of the Johannesburg Spatial Development Framework and in terms of
contextuality, the park is well located in the Sandton CBD in terms of transport by which
incorporation of the park with the rest of the Sandton CBD is possible. The park nevertheless
does not have parking amenities and facilities. Therefore, the Sandton Central Park is
accessible to public transportation users and pedestrians but not private car users. This can be
regarded as a negative element of the park, to provide accessibility but no parking lot for users
of the park.

(b) Social Factors

Shelton (2016) notes that Sandton Central Park does not provide an extensive choice of
activities and uses, and only offers an elementary use to the public by providing access to a
well-designed outdoor area. As an outcome, the park only delivers social benefits in terms of
recreational space. Shelton (2016) states that since access is uncontrolled, the space cannot be
guaranteed to be secure and safe. When there is no form of surveillance in urban open spaces,
users are likely not to visit the space (Elizalde, 1997).

Image 3:4 Seating Area and Pathways

Source: Shelton (2016)

44
As indicated in Images 3.4, there is an abundance of spaces with seating and shade for public
use and there are pathways throughout the park, which are user-friendly and maintained Shelton
(2016). A large area of the park provides an opportunity for events over week-ends and at
night and the park further offers an opportunity for market days, due to the accessible shade
that is offered by the trees (Shelton, 2016). This positively indicates that the urban open space
is not limited to daytime use but extends an invitation to be used even at night.

(c) Environmental Factors

Image 3.5: Poor Public Display Sign

Source: Shelton (2016)

As indicated in Image 3.5. there is poor signage, identity and lack of sense of place that makes
the public unware of the park, even though the park offers an arguably beautiful place in terms
of trees, flowers and rolling hills (Shelton, 2016). The lack of signs in Sandton Central Park
makes it hard for users to identify the park. According to Hughes (2002) signs offer a
significant tool for enhancing visitor knowledge.

There is a recommendation that space offers more design interventions such as signage and
lighting to make the space more welcoming, seating furniture, artwork and sculptures (Shelton,
2016). Artwork and sculptures are important features for urban open spaces as was also
discovered in Hyde Park in Australia.

To have a comprehensive picture of urban open spaces in South Africa, the relevant legislative
frameworks will be discussed.

3.5.6. Legislative Framework and Urban Open Spaces in South Africa

Some of the recent environmental acts and policies that impact the way open spaces are used
and premeditated comprises of the Constitution of South Africa, National Environmental
Management Act (NEMA), Environment Conservation Act (ECA) and the Local Agenda 21

45
(LA 21). On hand are municipal bylaws at municipal level which also influence how urban
open spaces are utilised.

3.5.6. The Republic of South Africa Constitution 1996

The South African constitution was legislated in 1996 with the purpose of strengthening the
post-apartheid models. Beginning from a conservational perspective, South Africa’s
constitution relies rather heavyly on the subjects of ecological protection and rights. Chapter
2, Section 24 best clarifies this and records that:

Everybody has the right-

a) to an atmosphere that is not unsafe to their health and

b) to have the environment safe, for the use of current and future generations, through
rational law-making and other methods that
i. stop contamination and environmental deficit;
ii. encourage preservation
iii. protected environmentally maintainable growth and use of natural
wealth while encouraging acceptable social and economic growth
(Republic of South Africa, 1996).

The movement of environmental rights embedded in the constitution and in town aims, marks
in better attention on conservational concerns. For open spaces, these conservational rights
may perhaps communicate the necessities of persons to have a metropolitan atmosphere that
embraces open space.

3.5.6.2. The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) 1998

The Act originated in 1998 with the purpose of warranting that environmental management be
incorporated within cities and in order to deliver supportive environmental control between
legislative bodies and organizations (Republic of South Africa, 1998a).

The principles of NEMA state that:

‘‘environmental controlling should be incorporated, recognising

that all fundamentals of the atmosphere are interconnected and
related, and it must explain the effects of choices on all parts of
the environment and all persons in the environment by following
the selection of the greatest feasible environmental
choice’’(Republic of South Africa,1998a: NEMA 2 [4b]).

46
 and that :

‘‘environmental managing requires to put the public and their

essentials at the forefront of its worry, and attend their
psychologica, developmental, cultural and societal benefits
equitably’’ (Republic of South Africa, 1998a: NEMA 2 [2a]).

The National Environmental Management Act proclaims that sensitive environments

necessitate particular planning and management attention, specifically when there are great
levels of people usage and development forces (Republic of South Africa, 1998a: NEMA 2(4r).
NEMA is essential for open space usage because it reaffirms the necessity to protect
ecologically sensitive and valuable areas.

Since the study is based in Kwazulu-Natal in the city of Durban, it is therefore imperative that
the bylaws of parks and recreation are discussed.

3.5.6.3.eThekwini Municipality: Municipal Parks and Recreational Grounds Bylaw 2015

An introduction of a certain bylaw is meant to control, monitor and guide the use. The
Municipal Council of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, permitted according to section
156 read with section 11 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, 2000 (Act No.32
of 2000), made the Bylaw of Municipal Parks and Recreational Grounds (2015).

The Bylaw has several objectives that aid in regulating urban open spaces by city users, which
are listed below;

a) Guard and reserve open spaces for the benefit of the municipality;

b) Control suitable use and satisfaction of squares by public community;

c) Standardise the fees arranged for the reservation of squares for private occasions and
gatherings; and

d) Offer for matters related thereto.

According to the Parks and Recreational Grounds Bylaw (2015), city-users are allowed to
access urban open spaces but there are certain terms and conditions that they need to follow.
Users of urban open spaces are required to notice and conform with all the communications
demonstrated at any zone of the park, comprising entrance thereto and conforming to any legal
order given to him or her by a permitted official.

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3.5.6.4. Durban Metropolitan Open Space System
D’MOSS is shorthand for the Durban Metropolitan Open Space System; this was previously
recognised as the eThekwini Environmental Services Management Plan or EESMP. The
Durban Metropolitan Open Space System, presently 94 000 hectares in size, is a spatial layer
of inter-relating open spaces in public, private and traditional authority ownership that seek to
protect the ecosystem services and biodiversity of Durban for future generations (eThekwini
Municipality, 2011).

Map 3.5: Durban Metro Open Spaces

Source: SDF 2017/18
Importance of DMOSS
Apart from the protection of open spaces and biodiversity, according to eThekwini
Municipality (2011), D’MOSS delivers a multiplicity of services to residents of Durban,
including the creation of soil, erosion control, climate regulation, water supply and regulation,
raw materials for craftsmanship and construction, cultural and recreational opportunities,
pollination, food manufacture, nutrient cycling and waste treatment.

48
Starting from a weather alteration viewpoint, the biodiversity that is sheltered within D’MOSS
plays an essential part. For example, amplified flood occasions can be toned down by making
sure that floodplains and wetlands are secured and where obligatory improved. Forecast
increased heats can also be lessened by D’MOSS, as vegetated zones support with cooling
(eThekwini Municipality, 2011).

(i) Lesson learned

The eThekwini Municipality can learn from Sandton Central Park (Johannesburg) in South
Africa. The urban open space is well located in the Sandton CBD in terms of transport by which
incorporation of the park with the rest of the Sandton CBD is possible. The park nevertheless
does not have parking amenities and facilities. It is important for open spaces to have facilities
other than providing visual features for users. There are poor signage, identity and lack of sense
of place that makes the public unware of the park. eThekwini Municipality must take into
consideration the presence of signs that identifies city open spaces so that they are easily seen
by users.

3.6. Summary
This chapter gave an indication of the literature surrounding urban open spaces, current and
purposed use of open spaces. It more importantly began to identify the benefits of urban open
space. The literature indicated four categories of urban open space benefits, namely; economic
advantages, social advantages, planning advantages and ecological benefits (Maruani and
Amit-Cohen, 2007; Baycan-Levent and Nijkamp, 2009). The chapter outlined the relationship
between accessibility and linkages in urban open spaces. Essentially, the legislations that guide
and monitor open spaces were outlined from an international and local perspective. According
to Hindson (1995), urban open spaces are created out of tradition and used for beauty rather
than environmental sustainability. This argument, therefore, concludes that attitudes towards
urban open spaces from international and local viewpoints are different, which then leaves
room to examine the use of urban open spaces in Durban, at Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini
Park.

49
 Chapter 4

Case Study of Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park

4.1. Introduction
The objective of this section is to provide the historical setting of the two case study areas and
their locality within the eThekwini Municipality. The case study areas involved are Albert Park
and Gugu Dlamini Park. This chapter will also discuss each area’s characteristics where the
case studies are located. Both of the focus study areas fall under the Central eThekwini
Municipality Town Planning Scheme.

4.2. The eThekwini Municipality

The eThekwini Municipality is found in the state of Kwazulu-Natal on the east coast of South
Africa. As recorded in Statistics South Africa (2011), the Durban Municipal space covers over
an area of about 2 297 km² and has a population of 3 442 361 million people. Statistics South
Africa (2011) further states that from 2001 to 2011, the population developed by 1.08 per cent
as paralleled to the 2.34 per cent progression between 1996 and 2001. It is the economic hub
of the KwaZulu-Natal Province. In 2005 the local gross product produced by the city amounted
to R135 billion and in nationwide terms provided 10 per cent of South Africa’s economic
output (eThekwini, 2006).

Durban is found in the Maputaland-Pondoland-Albany global biodiversity hotspot, regarded as

such because of its great intensities of habitat loss and bush endemism (Mittermeier, 2004).
Durban comprises of urban, rural and peri-urban environments, with almost two-thirds of the
metropolitan area being rural or semi-rural, where huge amounts of native dwellers are poor
and openly dependent on environmental amenities for their simple necessities (Roberts and
O’Donoghue, 2013; Sutherland, et al., 2014).

This study focuses on the inner city of Durban with the aim of examining the current use and
purpose use of open spaces. Map 4.1. shows the eThekwini Municipality according to the
scheme boundaries.

50
Map 4.1: eThekwini Municipality
Source: eThekwini Planning Scheme

4.2.1. Legislative Framework

There are diverse environmental policies and documents that influence and regulate the use of
city open spaces in the eThekwini Municipality. For the benefit of this study the Integrated
Development Plan, Spatial Development Framework and Town Planning Scheme will be
discussed.

4.2.1.1. Integrated Development Plan (IDP)

According to StepSA (2010) “the IDP is a management tool for developmental local
governments to align scarce resources to established policy objectives, priorities actions,
guarantee integration with other spheres and provide the basis for engagement with
communities”. It becomes a consultative process with communities regarding issues and

51
challenges that they face. As a strategic document, it spells out the municipality’s strategic plan
of action for five years.

Relevant to the conservation of natural resources in eThekwini. According to eThekwini

Municipality’s IDP (2019/20), the Durban Metropolitan Open Space (D’MOSS) was latterly
restructured, grounded on the Systematic Conservation Assessment. D’MOSS is a well-ordered
advanced layer and categorises those conservation service resources that necessitate controlling
and guarding (eThekwini Municipality, 2011). These resources include grasslands, rivers,
wetlands, plantations and coastal zones (eThekwini Municipality, 2011). For the sake of this
study, the focus is on grasslands which include open spaces. The D’MOSS execution approach
aims to realise and guarantee such spaces are managed and protected.

4.2.1.2. Spatial Development Framework (SDF)

The Municipal Systems Act (No. 32 of 2000) states that the IDP must have a Spatial
Development Framework (SDF), which should include elementary strategies for a land use
controlling system that applies to the entire city. In essence, an SDF is a plan or a
map which proposes the appropriate location and form of physical development and
savings to promote desired outcomes. The SDF is a legal obligatory section of the IDP and
therefore, it needs to be detailed and precise in cases where it wants to prevent or enforce
certain types of land uses.

According to the eThekwini Municipality’s SDF (2018/19), many of the natural resources
within the Central Spatial Region are under danger from the endless pressures and development
progression. Neglecting ecological systems reduces opportunities for building a structure of
open space which provides essential environmental services and goods to the inhabitants of
Durban. Both case studies of Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park are located in the Central
Spatial Region where natural resources are under threat. As recorded in the IDP, it is again
expounded on the SDF, the significance of D’MOSS is protecting and managing sensitive areas
in Durban.

According to the SDF (2018, 19), should anyone request to advance their property, if the
property is found in the D’MOSS layer, an analysis of the site to be advanced will be instigated
to assess the prospective environmental effect of the proposed development. This assessment
will be fundamental in terms of town planning schemes but possible also in terms of the
National Environmental Management Act 1998, (NEMA, Act No.107 of 1998).

52
4.2.1.3. Durban Town Planning Scheme
Town planning schemes are tools utilised by metropolises to manage and guide current and
new development with reference to plans, visions and guidelines of the Spatial Development
Framework and Integrated Development Plan in the significance of the overall community, to
encourage maintainable growth and quality of life (KwaZulu-Natal Land Use Management
System, 2004).

The Central Scheme of Durban provides details about the sensitivity of green lands in
municipal areas. These areas are demarcated by a green hatched pattern (eThekwini SDF,
2018/19). The Durban Metropolitan Open Space System guided zone is a layer in the town
planning document and is implementable by the ecological planning and climate protection
department (Central Town Scheme,2019). As stated in the Central Town Scheme (2019), no
individual shall, in a D’MOSS guided area, as well explained in Section 2, advance to some
extent land, or dig or eliminate some natural plants from, or construct any building of any kind,
carry out any labour upon such location short of having first attained the permission from the
Ecological Planning and Climate Protection Department.

4.3. Albert Park

Map 4:2. Albert Park

Source: Google Maps (2019)

The study area is located within the Durban CBD and currently operates as a recreational park
to the broader Albert Park area within its immediate vicinity. Albert Park received its name
from the adjacent large public park which is the case study. The Albert Park area is mainly

53
Table 4.2. depicts the status of employment in Ward 32. A high number of the population is
employed, even though there is a huge number depicting those who are not economically
active. The socio-economic profile focused only on the racial composition and employment
status because the prime focus of the study is the recreational area at Albert Park.

4.3.2. Zoning of Albert Park

Map 4:3. Zoning Map

Source: Author (2019)

Map 4.3. shows that the dominant zoning adjacent to the study area is residential. General
Residential 5 consists of largely medium to high-density residential flats. Whereas the zoning
of commercial activity is found on the ground floor and nearby the General Residential 5
buildings. Table 4.3. indicates the primary use of zoning adjacent to the study area and the
precluded land uses.

55
Table 4.3. Zoning Table adapted from eThekwini Central Town Scheme

Use Zone Symbol on Primary (Purpose Special Consent Precluded

map Use)
General Dark Blue Business Bar, Action Noxious Industrial
Business with Hatch premises(excluding Sports, Adult Building, Brothel
those referred to in Premises, Bottle and other uses not
column 4), Store, Casino, under column 3
Accommodation, Bath House, and 4.
Dwelling Houses, Funeral Parlour,
Residential Massage Parlour,
Building, Shop, Tavern, Shelter,
Fast Food Outlet, Parking Garage,
Place of Assembly, Place of Worship,
Licenced Hotel, Spray Painting,
Place of Work House,
Amusement, other uses not
Industrial Building, under column 3
Crèche, Social Hall and 5
General Light Brown Domestic staff, Place of Worship, Bath House, Adult
Residential with Hatch Dwelling House, Place of Premises, Brothel,
5 Accommodation, Instruction, Funeral Parlour,
Residential Parking Garage, Tavern, Work
Building, Fast Crèche, Social House, Shelter,
Food Outlet, Hotel, Hall, Action Massage Parlour
Institution Sports Bar, Bottle
Store, Night
Club, Casino,
Source: Author (2019)

4.3.3. Land Uses surrounding Albert Park

There are several land uses that have been identified along Diakonia Avenue which includes,
the Albert Park recreational area, Durban YMCA Non-Profit Centre for classes and services,
commercial activities, residential apartments, Durban Musical School, coordinating board,
Floyds Pharmacy, Diakonia Council of Churches, Diakonia Centre and supermarket. There is

56
a mixed number of numerous land uses found within the surrounding area of Diakonia Avenue,
each sharing its own unique features. Engen garage, Trinity Church, a post office and a few
banks along Joseph Nduli Street. There is a land use of the Metro Police within the Albert Park
recreational area.

4.4. Gugu Dlamini Park

Map 4:4. Gugu Dlamini Park

Source: Google Maps (2019)

Gugu Dlamini Park is an open space in central Durban. Map 4.4. shows that the park is located
behind the Workshop Mall. The open space (previously Central Park) was termed on Global
Aids Day in 2000, in honor of Gugu Dlamini for breaking the quietness on Aids in the country.
She is the woman who was heartlessly assassinated for revealing her HIV positive status at a
period when HIV and AIDS was blanketed in ignorance (DUT, 2013).

4.4.1. The Socio-economic Profile of Gugu Dlamini Park

Gugu Dlamini Park is found under Ward 28 of the eThekwini Municipality. Census (2011)
indicates that the ward has a total population of 23 170. Below is Table 4.4. depicting racial
composition.

57
4.4.2. Zoning of Gugu Dlamini Park

Map 4:5. Zoning Map

Source: Author (2019)

Map 4.5. depicts the study area (Gugu Dlamini Park) and the nearby zonings. The General
Business 4, Special Zone and Municipal/Government are the zoning areas surrounding Gugu
Dlamini Park. They characterise the area. Table 4.6. shows the use under each particular zone
and the precluded uses.

Table 4.6. Zoning Table adapted from eThekwini Central Town Scheme
Use Zone Symb Primary (Purpose Special Consent Precluded
ol on Use)
map
General Blue Sports Bar, Adult Base Agricultural Doings,
Business with Places, Skills Telecommunicat Agricultural Plot,
4 Hatch Studio, Gambling ions Landing field,
Garage, Lodging Transmission Seashore Amenity
House, Protected Station, Car Facility,
Zone, Playschool, Wash, Burial Constructors Plot,
Exhibition Space, Parlour, Lawn Graveyard/Cremator
Scholastic Garden Centre, ium, Cottage

59
 Institution, Escort Car Garage, Car Development,
Agency, Factory, Funeral Straight Access
Demonstration home, Place of Provision Centre,
Area, Flats, Communal Apartment House,
Marketplace, Reverence, Manufacturing –
Fuelling Station, Accommodation, Extractive,
Beauty Clinic, Special Industry, Moveable
Fitness Workshop, Building, Home Park &
Guesthouse, Transportation Camping
Service Facility, Workshop Ground, Various
Open Space, Unit Development,
Restaurants, Shop Nature Reserve,
Reprocessing
Centre,
Development
School, Waste
Dumping,
Controlled Building,
Retirement Area,
Horse-riding, Scrap
Plot, Lorry Stop,
Zoological Orchard

Special Light Motor Wash, Bed and breakfast, Motor Test Centre,
Zone Blue Fuelling Station, Association,Park & Gallery,
with Motor Garage, Sleep outdoors, Environment
Hatch Parkade Multi-Unit Reserve, Night-
Development, time Club, Office –
Office, Place of Medical, Pet
Worship, Private Training Parlour,
Open Space, Open Residence of Public
Space Performing,

60
 Reprocessing Place,
Restructuring
School, Waste
Dumping,
Controlled Building

Governm Parkade, Fine art Base Industry –

ent and and Abilities Communications Extractive Industry,
Municipa Workshop, Transmission Common Industry,
l Graveyard/Cremator Station, Natural Light Industry,
ium, Preservation surroundings Harmful Industry,
Zone, Convention Reserve, Open Truck Shop, Scrap
Centre, Correctional Entertaining, Yard, Waste
Structure, Direct Place of Dumping
Access Service Worship,
Centre, Dwelling Reserved Open
House, Scholastic Space, Re-
Establishment, Flea utilising Place,
Market, Funeral Old Age Home,
Parlour, Plot Transportation
Nursery, Workshop
Government /
Metropolitan,
Association,
Landfill, Market,
Funeral home,
Motor Test Centre

Source: Author (2019)

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4.4.3. Land Uses surrounding Gugu Dlamini Park
There is the Workshop Centre which entails diverse land uses because it is a mall. Outside
the mall, there are informal traders and Virgin Active. The nature of the area is associated
with human interaction.

4.5 Summary
This chapter introduced the case studies of the research, which are Albert Park and Gugu
Dlamini Park. The socio-economic profiles were outlined from the ward’s perspective for both
case studies. It gave the spatial location of the adjacent land uses to the study areas. In the
outline, it was noted that Albert Park has dramatically changed over the years, from being a
White neighbourhood in the 1970s to later being unattractive during the 1980s and being taken
over by Blacks. On the other hand, Gugu Dlamini Park was formerly known as Central Park.
It was changed to honour Gugu Dlamini who was cruelly slayed for revealing her HIV/AIDS
status publicly. Both study areas are acknowledged by the eThekwini Municipality as Public
Open Spaces.

As indicated in the SDF and IDP, many of the natural resources within the Central Spatial
Region are under threat from the unceasing pressures and development growth. It was also
discovered in Chapter 1 of the dissertation that both case study areas are currently facing
numerous challenges. The following chapter provides the findings that were attained by the
researcher of this study.

62
 Chapter 5
Study Findings

5.1. Introduction
This section presents data collected in the field pertaining urban open spaces. The data was
collected from the users of urban open spaces and from the municipal authorities responsible
for controlling and monitoring city open spaces in eThekwini. The interviews from users of
both urban open spaces deliberated their perspectives and what recommendations they had for
these spaces. The interviews were structured around the issues that were advocated as essential
by the literature and covered the participants’ concerns and opinions regarding the social
function, physical quality, safety, maintenance, activities and accessibility of the urban open
space. Conversations were overall short, condensed and lasted between 15 and 25 minutes.
Most interviews were voice-recorded. The researcher spent a few hours on different days
observing the use of both Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park, with this observation, examining
the current use of the urban open spaces. The spaces were visited both during the week and on
week-ends. This chapter also evaluates the principles of urban open spaces that were discussed
in Chapter two.

The presentation of data is done in a comparative approach throughout this chapter since the
research focused on two case studies. The findings are analysed and presented within the
perspective of some of the research objectives of this study and information is presented in a
thematic manner since it is a qualitative study. It should also be noted that information from
the municipal officials is presented in relevant themes. There was an additional participant from
academia and his perspective is incorporated in this analysis. Photos and graphs are used to
present and analyse information.

5.1.1. Presentation of Findings

The analysis of the current and purpose use of urban open spaces at Gugu Dlamini Park and
Albert Park is presented below. The following findings present the information gathered from
users of both urban open spaces, academia, researcher’s observations and key eThekwini
Municipality officials. Direct quotes from participates will be indicated in italics throughout
the analysis.

63
5.3. The Current Use of the Urban Open Space
One of the objectives of this research is to examine the current and purpose use of Albert Park
and Gugu Dlamini Park. From the end user’s perspectives, the eThekwini Municipality official,
academia as well the researcher’s observations, urban open spaces are used differently from
each other. The discussions below under informal and formal activity themes provide the
current and purpose use of both spaces. The use of the words, ‘informal and formal activities’,
were decided after the interview with the eThekwini Municipality official who regarded formal
activities as those with permits while informal activities are those prohibited by the
municipality.

5.3.1. Findings from the eThekwini Municipality Official

The initial objective of the researcher was to interview two municipal officials working closely
with Durban Open spaces but due to unforeseen limitations, only one official provided input to
the study.

Purpose Use of Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park

According to the municipal official, the nature of Albert Park is predominantly zoned for
residential. It is an area that is also full of life with many other land uses that are utilised by
residents. The recreational area at Albert Park was therefore provided to offer residents a space
to connect with nature and activities. The municipal official further stated that residents are
able to walk to the park since it is closer to their residential areas. As also argued by Gehl
(2011) good urban open spaces must be easily accessible, which correlates with the municipal
official’s explaination of Albert Park being effortlessly accessible by its users. At Gugu
Dlamini Park the official stated that the urban open space was designed because of the mall at
the Workshop Centre. She elaborated that it is a busy area; therefore, it is imperative that the
users of the mall and nearby land uses are able to have an area that offers a space for nature. In
Chapter 3 of this dissertation, under the section of land use zoning, it emphasises the
importance of compatibility and connectivity, which agrees with the contribution of the
municipal official in terms of how urban open spaces must be designed in a way that is efficient.
The intention of providing both Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park to city users was to provide
them with greenery and relaxation areas.

66
Current Use of Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park
Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park are unique spaces that form part of the city of Durban.
‘‘The use of both urban open spaces has not changed in the past 15 years but instead, there is
an increase of activities especially at Albert Park’’. Albert Park offers numerous activities.
According to the municipal official all activities in the urban open space are allowed by the
issuing of permits. Often activities that require permits include weddings, political campaigns,
church services, Muslims fast, etc. Umembeso which is a Zulu traditional ceremony is one
activity that has become prominent in the past 15 years at Albert Park. These activities show
the level of diversity in the city and how the municipality is embracing diverse ethnic groups
and multi-culturalism. The urban open space also offers activities for users such as an outdoor,
basketball, play area for children, chess area and a soccer field. These activities do not require
permits. The urban open space offers a rich environmental role as the space is dominated by
indigenous trees which the official said some users are able to enquire for knowledge purposes.
It was also discovered through literature that the environmental roles are expounded to
ecological enrichment such as cleaning and returning rainwater to the ground and reducing
inner-city temperatures (Kellet & Girling, 2005). Environmental roles are therefore not only
limited to green features of urban open spaces.

At Gugu Dlamini Park the urban open space is not designed for play area activities because of
the zoning nature of the area. According to the municipal official the urban open space is for
relaxation and entertainment. There are also permits required for performance activities even
though many people overlook this requirement. The open space is mostly used for relaxation.
According to the municipal official all forms of trading taking place at Gugu Dlamini Park are
illegal and the eThekwini Municipality prohibits them. The Town Planning Scheme is another
municipal document, which discourages activities or land uses that are not complementary (see
Chapter four of this study).

Urban Open Space Management

The eThekwini Municipality is fully responsible for managing both urban open spaces of Gugu
Dlamini Park and Albert Park. Figure 5.3. provides the segment of management for urban open
spaces.

67
 “There are dustbins that are found in the spaces and there is a team that also cleans
the parks during the week.” The official further said that the urban open spaces are well
maintained as they are always clean and attractive. Chapter four of the eThekwini
Municipal Parks and Recreational Bylaw (2015) states that a person visiting an urban
open space must not throw or deposit any rubbish, paper or anything else anywhere
other than in a container supplied by the municipality. Good maintenance does not
afford aesthetic value only but also enhances the repeat use of urban open spaces.
 Security: Perceived safety is a vital aspect that may discourage many potential visitors
from enjoying and using available urban open spaces (Dogrusoy, 2017). The use of
public open spaces must be well incorporated with safety by city authorities. The
municipal official remarked that:
“Safety is a big issue for both Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park. We have deployed
two securities at Albert Park that provide 24-hour surveillance but still, things are
bad.” As stated by the municipal official above, safety in both urban open spaces is a
problem. She stated that regardless of the security provided by the municipality at
Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park, users of both urban open spaces are harassed and
robbed by homeless people. The municipal official stated that these challenges have
left the spaces as unsafe areas. The municipal official said that it is difficult to manage
safety at Gugu Dlamini Park because the open space does not have a demarcated fence.
The level of safety will be discussed further under the findings of the researcher’s
observations and interviews with the space users.
 Daily activities: Urban open spaces become alive and vibrant because of the activities
that these spaces offer or provide. The municipal official remarked that:
“It is not simple to manage daily activities in both Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park
but there are measures put in place which make it easy for users to enjoy themselves.
There are signage in designated areas in both spaces that communicate about each
zone in the spaces, at Albert Park, there is a signage that communicates about the
children's area, chess game area, and etc. The municipality also has signage that
prohibits some activities and this is communicated through the signage and securities
at Albert Park.” According to the municipal official the management of daily activities
are controlled by signage and also security. Daily activities are controlled by time. The
municipal official stated that at Albert Park, the urban open spaces operates from six

69
been advocated to enable societal unity by generating space for communal relations (Maas, et
al., 2009). Gugu Dlamini Park is located in the entral Business District, and there are colleges
close to the park. Two participants who are students expressed their views about the purpose
use of the open space. Relevant to them, it is a place for destressing after a few hectic hours of
class attendance.

One respondent from Albert Park stated that the purpose use of urban open spaces is to offer
an opportunity of connecting with nature since it was her prime motive for visiting the space.
Such a perspective emphasises the high level of importance for the municipality to provide
more green areas than hard open spaces. At Gugu Dlamini Park, 28 per cent of the participants
used the urban open space to wait or meet someone. This is also supported by Holland (2007)
who states that public open spaces allow people to meet on supposedly neutral ground in
unplanned and planned ways, to network and interact with others within the environment of
the whole community.

The majority (60%) of the park visits lasted between 3 – 5 hours, 15 per cent stayed for more
than 5 hours per visit at Albert Park while it was difficult to determine the visit duration at
Gugu Dlamini Park, because of the multiple trails connected to adjacent land uses.

The researcher visited Albert Park on a Sunday afternoon and there were different activities
taking place. The security guard alluded that the municipality legally allowed the activities by
permits. There was a soccer game and a church service occurring concurrently (see image 5.8.).
The issuing of permits by the municipality indicates that there are certain activities that are
precluded from taking place in urban open spaces. The use of permits shows the determination
by eThekwini Municipality to bring order and user-friendly urban open spaces for users. It is
also said that the Australian government leases permits to regulate urban open space activities
and further uses them as a mechanism to preserve and protect the environment (Director of
National Parks (DNP) 2015).

The activities discussed above were considered formal because they do not infringe upon the
South African Constitution, municipal policies and bylaws of eThekwini. It is essential for the
study to discuss the factors contributing to the current use of both Gugu Dlamini and Albert
Park.

5.3.1.2. Factors leading to Current Use

There are certain factors that influence the current use of Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park.
These factors were obtained by interviewing the participants and by the researcher’s

75
 ● Recreational purposes: According to 50 per cent of the participants at Gugu Dlamini
Park and 44 per cent at Albert Park, they visit the urban open space for leisure. The
majority stated that easy access to the park without any particular restrictions influences
their use of the urban open space. One participant said that Gugu Dlamini Park does
not require any fee for use and this has therefore encouraged her to visit more often for
leisure.

The factors above leading to the current use of both urban open spaces are easy access to the
parks and lack of securing and monitoring from the municipality. The discussion below arises
from the academia’s perspective regarding the use of urban open spaces.

5.3.1.3. Findings from Academia’s Perspective

In an interview for this research, a Town and Regional Planning lecturer spoke about the
purpose use, role, design and challenges that are faced by urban open spaces and users.

Purpose Use/Role
The lecturer remarked that:
“Town planning consists of different land uses and urban open spaces are one component that
provides unique use and refreshing atmosphere for cities. They offer a space of interactions,
social cohesion and winding up”. According to the lecturer, in keeping with the study, urban
open spaces are for meeting up with friends and viewing nature. There is a close relationship
between the lecturer’s views and broad discoveries from previous research into the use of urban
open spaces globally. For example, in the United Kingdom (Seaman, et al., 2010; Irvine, 2013),
the Netherlands (Chiesura, 2004), Denmark (Schipperijn, 2009), Iran (Abkar, et al., 2010).
Going for a walk, viewing nature, having a break, taking children to play, meeting families,
exercise and a fresh atmosphere are all explanations that are threaded through these studies as
purposes of use of urban open spaces.

Design
The lecturer remarked that:
“Designing of urban open spaces involves distance and time taken from one land use to another
and planners must design spaces that are easily accessible by city residents”. The perspectives
of the lecturer can be complemented by the researcher’s observations. For example, the
distance from Gugu Dlamini Park to the Workshop Mall is a practical model on how urban
open spaces must be incorporated with adjacent land uses. It takes less than 2 minutes at a
distance of 500 m walking from the mall to the urban open space.

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Challenges
The lecturer remarked that:
“Town planners are mostly accountable to the end-user product. There is a lack of
participation during the design of urban open spaces and therefore they result in activities of
misconduct. Another challenge is that urban open spaces are not relevant in terms of design
and location”. The challenges raised by the lecturer during the interview are applicable and
relevant to the study. At Albert Park the design of the urban open space encourages insolation.
In Map 5.2. areas are indicated that are used by homeless people. During the researcher’s
observations the areas dominated by vagrants lack facilities that can make the space come alive.
The challenges that were raised were accompanied by a solution from the lecturer. He
emphasised the importance of participation when designing urban open spaces in order to make
them relevant. In order to develop a healthy community and liveable city, planning for parks is
an important matter (Saffuan, Ariffin and Amin 2013). Hence, Marafa and Shing (2006)
proposed that authorities and practitioners should pledge and initiate more unrestricted
participative opportunities because park users are the major stakeholders and could ensure the
achievement of urban parks. In the context of the eThekwini Municipality it means that city
citizens must be involved in the compilation of the Integrated Development Plan. The problems
in terms of design of the urban open spaces shows the practicality of the modernisation theory
which was discussed in Chapter two of this report. Duminy (2007) discusses the negatives of
the modernisation theory which emphasises rational and no participation of affected and
relevant stakeholders. From the argument above, one can therefore say it is essential to
understand users’ expectations and needs when designing urban open spaces. According to
Francis (2003) users’ needs are categorised into four categories namely; passive engagement,
comfort, active engagement and relaxation.

Based on secondary data sources (especially park-design handbook/manual), the following

criteria in Table 5.1. were developed to facilitate the researcher’s observations on facilities
available at Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park.

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Table 5.1. Overview of Facilities at Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park

Urban Open Space Design- Yes/No Gugu Dlamini Park Yes/No

Features/Facilities (Albert Park)
Presence of Toilets Yes Presence of Toilets No
Presence of entrance Yes Presence of entrance (not Not
applicable, open space not Applicable
fenced)
Presence of seating areas Yes Presence of seating areas Yes
Presence of rubbish bins No Presence of rubbish bins Yes
Presence of fountain No Presence of fountain No
Presence of lighting along paths No Presence of lighting along paths Yes
Presence of signage and maps Yes Presence of signage and maps Yes
Presence of artwork No Presence of artwork Yes
Presence of policing Yes Presence of policing Yes
Landscape design (trees, grasses) Yes Landscape design (trees, Yes
grasses)
Presence of sheltered areas in case of No Presence of sheltered areas in No
hostile weathers (rain and winds) case of hostile weathers (rain
and winds)
Maintenance Yes Maintenance
Presence of Parking Yes Presence of Parking No
Presence of play equipment for Yes Presence of play equipment for No
children children
Presence of recreational facilities Yes Presence of recreational No
facilities
Presence of walking trails Yes Presence of walking trails Yes

5.4. Facilities in the Urban Open Spaces

This section will discuss the features or facilities found at Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park.
These features encourage the potential satisfaction of urban open space users and provide
another angle on how the spaces are currently used. Park facilities also depict a picture of
efficiency.

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protects and preserves parks for the benefit of the public and further states that it regulates the
proper use and enjoyment of parks by members of the public.

The presence of homeless people harassing users of both urban open spaces shows a big gap
of lack of management from the eThekwini Municipality. The lack of management has resulted
in both urban open spaces regarded as an unsafe atmosphere for users.

According to eThekwini Municipality (2011), D’MOSS delivers a multiplicity of services to

the inhabitants of Durban, including cultural and recreational opportunities. The researcher’s
observations and findings from the users of both Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park indicates
that there is a gap when eThekwini Municipality is providing recreational opportunities,
because of the lack of facilities and maintenance provided.

5.7. Principles Evaluation

In Chapter two of this study principles of urban open spaces were discussed. After observations
by the researcher, it is imperative to examine the extent of how these principles were present
at Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park, because they influenced how both urban open spaces
are currently used and the responsiveness of eThekwini Municipality.

1. Legibility: Building legibility in urban open spaces is significant to define the

boundaries of a space with good focal points and clear accented entrances. Users need
to be able to detect where space begins and ends to judge their position in a city and
space. Clearly legible and permeable entrances attract users to open spaces particularly
within high and dense cities such as Durban. At Gugu Dlamini Park there are entrances
from multiple routes, which therefore make it easy for users to access the city open
space. On the south area of the open space, a clear (edge) boundary demarcates the end
of the urban open space. At Albert Park the principle of legibility is limited because of
the unclear entrances to the urban open space. There are only two gates with signage
far away from the entrance point. It is difficult for the public to locate the urban open
space as compared to Gugu Dlamini Park. Albert Park possesses clear boundaries as
there is a fence that surrounds the urban open space.
2. Diversity and Accessibility: In today’s society, particularly in Durban where different
demographics of people reside, it is essential that urban open spaces provide available
access and cater to the inherent needs of diverse cultures. Providing access to users of
all ages and physical qualities is important. According to the researcher’s observations,

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 both Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park neglected to design for persons with a
disability. This is an involuntary exclusion for such a group of people. Accessibility for
children at Albert Park is easy because of the designated areas for them to play.
Therefore, the principle of accessibility at Albert Park embraces children to use the
urban open space. It is essential for spaces to be non-definitive in excluding future
growth or expansions in diversity meaning. “Public spaces require a cultural argument,
but one that is neither too explicit nor literal, leaving space for this accrual of meaning.”
(Gallacher, 2005, pp.53). It was difficult for the researcher to determine the diverse
cultures using both spaces but the overview group utilising Gugu Dlamini Park and
Albert Park were black people, which included Indians.
3. Sense of Place/Places for People: The formation of urban open spaces is needed to
create functional and meaningful spaces for people. A sense of place for people can
include qualities such as connection and meaning with a place. One participant at Gugu
Dlamini stated that the urban open space provided an arena to connect with other people
and nature. He further stated that the significant of the space was for individuals to be
free to honor Gugu Dlamini who was killed for disclosing her HIV/AIDS status
publicly. According to the researcher’s direct observations at Albert Park, the urban
open space does not embrace the principles of a sense of place or place for people. It is
an open space that provokes fear in users because of the high presence of vagrancy.
4. Ease of Movement: open spaces demand obtainable ease of access and suitable
connections to its surroundings to entice users. This is derived from the human
approach whereby people are more likely to use space or locations when they are easily
accessible. The extent or degree of movement within urban open spaces is reliant upon
how well connected the open space is, when compared to surrounding districts and to
the city as a whole. According to Corbett (2004) this can therefore be regarded as crucial
open space success. The principle of ease of movement at Gugu Dlamini Park is feasible
because the urban open space is well connected to streets and surrounding land uses.
According to the researcher’s observations, the ease of movement allows users to easily
access the urban open space and this is evident as seen in the high number of users
during the day. At Albert Park there is a barrier to connectivity and there are no clear
visual and key views to the urban open space. Spaces that are easily seen from the street
by passers-by are more likely to be used than those that are visually obscured (Corbett,
2004, pp.82).

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5.8. Summary
To conclude this chapter, the results obtained from the eThekwini Municipal Official, the
researcher’s observation, questionnaire survey, academia, and photographs indicate that Gugu
Dlamini Park and Albert Park are not well-utilised urban open spaces. This chapter further
alluded that current use of the spaces is contrary to the municipal bylaws , which therefore
showed that the purpose use is limited due to the informalities that currently take place in the
urban open spaces.

The use of two case studies has assisted in this analysis by showing that CBD urban open
spaces are used differently from city spaces located in a residential neighbourhood. Chapter 6
will provide key findings and recommendations on how best these spaces can be effectively
and positively used.

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 Chapter 6
Summary of Findings, Recommendations and Conclusions

6.1. Introduction
This chapter presents a summary of the findings from the information presented in Chapter 5.
It is divided into two sections. The first section looks at the summary of findings. The second
section wraps up the whole dissertation with recommendations on how urban open spaces can
be best used in South African cities, but with a closer look at Durban and touching on the use
of Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park, Durban.

6.2. Summary of Findings

The aim of the study was to provide a clear understanding of the relationship between the
current and purpose use of the urban open spaces of Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park. Four
key objectives and research questions were identified to guide the study towards a better
understanding of the current and purpose use of both urban open spaces. The open spaces are
located in different areas in the city of Durban, which means their users responded differently
from each other. Gugu Dlamini Park is located in the busy area of the CBD with a mall adjacent
to it, while the park at Albert Park is located in a predominatly residential area.

Land uses and locations of spaces influence the use. Albert Park is surrounded by a residential
area and educational institutions, therefore the majority of the users of the space are students
and unemployed individuals (see figure 5.4.). The current use of both urban open spaces shared
many similarities. A number of findings can be drawn from the results previously outlined.
Firstly, the prominent and disturbing current use was that of homeless people occupying both
spaces and leaving fear in users of the spaces. A second key finding revealed that the main
factor leading to the current use was because of the lack of security in the spaces. Seventy-six
per cent of the participants perceived both urban open spaces to be unsafe.

Thirdly, by means of the researcher’s observations, it was discovered that there is no effective
maintenance in both urban open spaces. Albert Park has broken signage and a damaged fence
which are important elements of the space, while Gugu Dlamini Park becomes untidy during
week-ends because of littering. At Gugu Dlamini Park, the urban open space is currently used
as an area for diverse activities such as alcohol, public sex, informal trading and unauthorised

95
entertainment and the factor leading to these uses was discovered to be the easy access to the
open space.

Fourthly, urban open spaces are supposed to be inclusive and friendly to all groups of people.
It was discovered that the design of entrance trails to both spaces does not support wheelchairs
of the physically challenged. Gungor (2016), in the process of proposing and designing a public
model, states that it is necessary to design the co-habitated physical environment by equally
considering the needs of all its dwellers. Physically challenged people are equally deserving to
use urban open spaces.

Another key finding is that the urban open spaces are not correctly managed which then results
in a wrong user pattern. Important facilities like toilets are not provided, which resulted in users
of Gugu Dlamini Park and Albert Park utilising these spaces as a zone for disposal. Finally,
during rainy and hot days, it was discovered by participants and observations made by the
researcher that both urban open spaces lack shelter.

6.3. Recommendations
Based on the findings of this study, the researcher would like to outline a set of
recommendations going forward, that are directed at the planning authorities to improve the
liveability of urban open spaces in Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park. Safety is a big problem
for both urban open spaces and therefore it is essential that the municipality improves in this
area.

Safety
 In order to have safe and friendly open spaces, the municipality needs to increase the
number of security guards. For example, at Albert Park, the open space is too large to
be monitored by two people. The municipality needs to collaborate with both Metro
and SAPS for a clean-up campaign now and then. This will improve and reduce the
number of vagrants. The visibility of local police may assist with urban open space
users feeling secure while utilising the park.
 Institutions such as rehab facilities, homeless shelters, the private sector and other Non-
Governmental Organisations (NGOs) that deal with social development issues could be
brought in as an intermediary to help vagrants occupying the urban open spaces to be
integrated well within the community.

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Maintenance is a vital component that can determine a repeat visit from a user. It is essential
that the eThekwini Municipality respond promptly to damaged facilities as discovered at Albert
Park and Gugu Dlamini Park.

Maintenance
 In order to have healthy and clean open spaces, dustbins must be strategically placed
around both urban open spaces. They must be reachable and visible to users.
Responsive strategies to damaged facilities are needed such as monitoring the spaces
on a daily basis in order to identify new challenges.
 Establish an independent organisation that has accessibility to the resources of local
government to maintain, clean and manage urban open spaces but will still be supported
by City Parks. This may contribute to a strong identification of roles and
accountabilities in the development of new urban open spaces and the maintenance of
existing urban open spaces. This organization will further address and manage the
problem of vagrants in the urban open spaces and will work hand in hand in creating
the initial design of new urban open spaces.

The urban open spaces are currently confronted by activities such as public sex, alcohol,
informal trading and unauthorised entertainment. The park bylaws strongly prohibit these
activities.

Signage
 The municipality must provide clear signage at the entrances of urban open spaces,
listing all activities that are prohibited. The signage must be also strategically placed in
areas more likely to attract such activities. There must be fines listed to discourage users
from engaging in these activities. In parks, maps, educational signs, bulletin boards and
even directional signs are required because they make amenities such as benches, cafes
and restrooms more accessible.

The study discovered that there are no adequate shelters in both urban open spaces. Gugu
Dlamini Park has one structure that provides shelter, while Albert Park is compensated by the
large amount of trees during hot days.

97
Shelters (urban open spaces considering local climate)
 There must be a balance in the provision of trees and shelters. The design of urban open
spaces plays a big role in how shelters can be placed around the spaces. Shelters must
be placed close to areas in the urban open space that offer activities.
 Ensure the walkways are shaded using trees.
 Ensure that the urban open spaces are well shaded during midday especially seating
areas.
 Modify the lay-out of the urban open spaces to enhance the thermal comfort.

The increase of informalities occurring in the urban open spaces shows that users are not
exposed to the significance thereof. It is essential that these spaces are conserved and protected
by users more so than by eThekwini Municipality Authorities.

Education
 The municipality must provide clean-up programmes and workshops for the youth,
since both urban open spaces are located in areas where there are educational
institutions. The municipality must extend an invitation to the colleges to encourage
the essence of open spaces and how they need to be preserved.

According to the researcher’s observations, there is a need to re-design both urban open spaces
to be inclusive of physically challenged individuals and also attraction.

Guarantee Good Quality Design

 Ensure the design of urban open space delivers respectable imageability, attachment,
human scale, clearness and involvement. This will require architects and town planners
to work together with other relevant stakeholders such as the Association for the
Physically Challenged in order to provide inclusive spaces.
 Ensure visual and physical access.

Gugu Dlamini Park already possesses artwork which is an advantage for the municipality to
capitalise on by providing more knowledge about the provided sculpture. This can attract
tourists and economically boost our city. The artwork at Gugu Dlamini Park offers silent
lessons about HIV/AIDS and tolerance among people.

98
Artwork
 Deliver municipal art that reproduces societal and national values. Artwork beautifies
spaces and encourages repeat visits. The sculpture symbolizing HIV/AIDS at Gugu
Dlamini Park is a great first step. Many users of the park were observed taking pictures
and resting next to the sculpture (See image 5.17).

The urban open spaces experience a lot of informal trading, which is a cry from users of the
city since they have a right to the city. There are no forms of shops in the urban open space at
Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini Park, but only unpermitted trading, therefore, economic needs
must be incorporated.

Ensure Urban Open Spaces correspond to Economic Needs

 Ensure delivery of good quality drink and food services in urban open spaces.
 Encourage the use of mobile shops in designated areas in urban open spaces.
 Offer permits for informal traders.

Incorporate Urban Open Spaces with Municipal Strategic Goals

 The Inner Thekwini Regeneration and Urban Management Programme developed six
key objectives to accomplish inner-city development and one of these objectives is
improving security and safety (Jali, 2017). As the municipality plans for safety, it must
fully incorporate and prioritise providing security for surrounding land uses for urban
open spaces. If adjacent land uses to city open spaces have good surveillance, urban
open spaces are most likely to benefit.

Chapter 3 of this study articulated the environmental benefits of urban open spaces which
included nature conservation and promoted biodiversity. The last recommendation, therefore,
encourages the eThekwini Municipality to promote the purpose use of the city open spaces
through encouraging environmental benefits.

Urban Open Spaces must provide Environmental Benefits

 Urban open spaces must be designed in such a way that they promote ecological and
environmental benefits such as guidelines for pollution control, nature conservation,
flood control and urban climate. They must be able to reduce urban heat and increase
property values.

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6.3.1. Future Research
Durban is perceived as a multi-cultural area but from the researcher’s findings, only black
people utilised the urban open spaces even though according to Chapter four, in Tables 4.1.
and 4.4. of this study, different races were depicted to be occupying areas adjacent to both
urban open spaces. The future research study will focus on factors that discourage the
inclusivity of users of urban open spaces in the inner city.

6.4. Research Objectives and Aims

In Chapter 1, the following objectives were outlined. These objectives have been arranged in
Table 6.1. to specify in which chapter each of the objectives has been dealt with.

Table 6.1: Research Objectives alongside the Chapters responding to the Objective
Research Objective Corresponding Chapter
Compare and contrast the purposed use and Numerous topics related to urban open
current use of Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini spaces and the purposed use of them were
Park discussed in Chapter 3, the Literature
Review. The current use was partially
discussed in Chapter 3 and then fully
articulated in Chapter 5, the Study Findings.
Examine how the urban open spaces were In Chapter 5, through the study participants,
used in the past 15 years at Albert Park and the eThekwini Municipal Official and users
Gugu Dlamini Park of the urban open spaces. They contributed
to how both spaces were used in the past 15
years.
Examine the factors which leads to change of In Chapter 5, through the researcher’s
the use of Albert Park and Gugu Dlamini observations and users of the urban open
Park spaces, the dynamics that contribute to the
current use of the urban open spaces were
identified.
Provide recommendations on how best to use In Chapter 5, during the discussion of
urban open spaces of Gugu Dlamini Park and findings, there were recommendations that
Albert Park were also discussed. Chapter 6 provided all
the recommendations on how best to use

100
 urban open spaces of Gugu Dlamini Park and
Albert Park.

6.5. Conclusion
It is easy to determine the purpose use of urban open spaces through constitutions, bylaws,
policies, acts and any other authorised documents, but the most important indicators that need
to be embraced are factors influencing the current use. This study indicated that there are a lot
of informalities currently taking place in both urban open spaces, making it imperative
therefore to critically find a holistic approach that will help to encourage healthy, friendly, safe
and welcoming urban open spaces in eThekwini and South Africa.

This study has attempted to outline the challenges that are currently taking place in urban open
spaces. The objective was to come up with recommendations on how best these spaces can be
used. It is clear that urban open spaces are essential for the city and its users, and therefore, not
only town planners and the eThekwini Municipality should be responsible in making sure they
are usable. If this aspect of responsibility is neglected by city residents, we will most likely
continue to have and experience the same challenges in the city’s open spaces. Cities’ open
spaces are an element that brings a refreshed atmosphere in cities, making it imperative that
they are well-monitored, maintained and regulated for users.

101
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Annexure: 3 Information Sheet

109
Annexure: 4 Declaration of Consent

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