In her conference paper, Lilian Muller makes an interesting comment about past and current planning theories. Yes, they do shift depending on where the power lies and who defines the public interest. In rational planning theory, the planner is expert. In neoliberal planning theory, the market is dominant. Currently, it is questioned whether public interests can exist at all.
If we are to take the concept of public interest seriously we should involve citizens in the planning processes.
Muller discusses the role of the private sector and how governments initially acted to prevent private interests. They were in control of the public interest. She then turns to her previous studies on implementing, or not, universal design into planning processes. Understanding how stakeholders view users is an interesting insight.
Skewed image of the user
Muller found that in public policies and guidelines there were clear expressions of the imagined user. That is, the policy developers were inserting their own perceptions into the documents. The perception of users’ abilities determined the priorities in the planning and designing of buildings and places.
Prominent characteristics of expected users were youth, education, health and success. Notably absent were older people and people with disability. There is a visible gap between laws and political visions on one hand, and practice on the other. This was evident at the early stages of planning.
Gap between policy and outcomes revealed
Master plan illustrations were not compatible with regulations. High demands were place on functional abilities to walk, use steps and bikes. There was an expectation that people could walk long distances between transport stops and services.
Muller’s workshops and interviews showed clear opportunities to reach common positions when planning and building for all. The key is using concrete, practical examples and networking between stakeholders with competing interests. That’s when the public interest is served and citizen rights are preserved.
“Based on the experiences from the workshops, Universal Design appears as a useful and important asset in such a strategy. A built environment accessible and usable by all is not a modest demand – it is a minimum requirement.”
Despite laws, policies, and political visions to create cities and societies for all, barriers still exclude people from using buildings and public places. The commitments made in global agreements require significant changes to meet the needs of the population.
Adopting universal design in urban planning processes is one important step towards a society for all. Three recent studies in Sweden focused on how, where and what factors supported or impeded UD along the planning and construction processes. The process from conception to implementation was analyzed from a universal design perspective.
The findings highlight three critical areas: Competing and contradictory interests, Critical choices and aspects, and Images of the user.
These challenges need to be addressed by all actors involved to reach common understanding on how an inclusive built environment can be designed and realised.
Equity in the urban built environment
This book explores inequities in the urban built environment across a diverse range of places. It offers practical solutions and strategies for building more just, inclusive, and sustainable cities. It’s about people of diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, ages, and abilities feeling welcome in public spaces,
Equity in the Urban Built Environment, has 16 chapters covering buildings, roads, public spaces and other infrastructure. It highlights inequities in the way amenities (and disamenities) and policies create unjust patterns.
The history of wayfinding has evolved from visual orientation by the stars and landmarks, to signage and digital technology. A good wayfinding system will use all three – visual orientation, signage and digital applications. But it requires consistent application. If not, the likelihood of being confused and then anxious increases. That’s where some neuroscience for inclusive wayfinding comes in.
Effective wayfinding systems are essential for spatial orientation, personal safety, and emotional well-being, especially in complex environments like hospitals, transit systems, and large institutions.
A research project from the US carried out a literature review, case studies, and field work to develop a framework for solutions. The findings emphasised the critical importance of consistency in design and the strategic placement of signage. Technologies such as augmented technology also enhance user navigation experiences.
Key recommendations
Adopt human centred design principles and address the diverse cognitive and sensory needs of users.
Incorporate digital tools, real time data updates, and interactive maps.
Training programs for staff are essential for enhancing the overall user experience.
The following chart is a screenshot of a table of recommendations from the research paper.
Integrating multi-sensory engagement and user-centered design strategies, wayfinding systems can better support individuals in complex environments. This will ultimately contribute to more inclusive public spaces and improve quality of life.
Recommendations for staff training
Staff training is a key component of wayfinding support in complex environments. Training programs equip staff with skills to assist the diverse nature of visitors. Training positively impacts the cognitive and emotional wellbeing of service staff and users. The following chart is a screenshot from the research paper.
Wayfinding, has moved from traditional navigation methods reliant on visual cues and landmarks to modern systems that integrate digital technologies and neuroscience.
Accessible and consistent wayfinding systems that accommodate diverse user abilities, particularly in public transit, hospitals, and large institutions are needed. Current systems often lack coordination, clear signage, and comprehensive coverage, leading to navigation challenges.
We evaluate best practices for inclusive wayfinding. Key findings emphasize the importance of consistent visual design and strategic sign placement. Integrating technologies like interactive maps and augmented reality are essential.
The study highlights the role of multi-sensory engagement and neuroscience in improving spatial orientation and reducing user anxiety. Adopting a user-centered approach, the research proposes wayfinding strategies that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility. There are valuable insights for urban planners, architects, and policymakers. The focus is on enhancing user experience, advancing inclusivity, and promoting well-being in public spaces.
The retrofitting of Olympic and Paralympic Games venues for accessibility tends to focus on the Paralympic Games, para-athletes. While we continue with this discourse inclusion will continue to be seen as a parallel and separate endeavour. Both Games need the same levels of accessibility and inclusion and should therefore be discussed as one event, not two.
“This effort goes beyond simply following established guidelines; it calls for a deeper commitment to embracing both the letter and the spirit of universal design principles.”
“… effective transformation is contingent on targeted retrofitting strategies rooted in universal design and a commitment to inclusivity among all stakeholders.”
Focus on wheelchair users is not the end but the beginning
We have entered an era of conservation when it comes to staging major international events. The Olympic and Paralympic committees now want to see existing facilities upgraded rather than new infrastructure. While this might tick sustainability boxes, not all venues can be easily adapted. While basic access can be improved, it is questionable whether inclusion is attained for all.
A literature review looks at past Olympic and Paralympic sporting and spectator facilities. The researchers found that relying on existing regulatory frameworks are an insufficient condition for access and inclusion. Reflections on past events reveal the importance of going beyond basic compliance. And that means taking a universal design approach.
Universal design is needed
A universal design approach promotes the need to meet inclusive standards, not just compliance standards. Modifications to the layout and architecture are important and need the integration of specialised equipment and designated areas for the diverse range of athletes and spectators.
Embracing these standards as a catalyst for innovation rather than mere compliance fosters the pursuit of excellence and aligns with the spirit of the Paralympic Games.
The title is, Enhancing Access and Inclusion: The Retrofitting of Olympic Facilities for the Paralympic Games. The authors recommend a systematic evaluation of universal design in sports complexes with a focus on tangible benefits for all. Paralympic Games can act as a catalyst for universally accessible and inclusive sports facilities.
From the abstract
This paper examines the significance of retrofitting initiatives in creating accessible sports environments. By modifying existing venues, these efforts accommodate the unique needs of individuals with disabilities, enhancing both athlete participation and the spectator experience.
Key retrofitting strategies, such as installing wheelchair ramps and accessible seating, contribute to a more equitable environment. Addressing the specific needs of Paralympic athletes and spectators demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity in sports.
Beyond the Paralympic Games, retrofitted facilities set a standard for future events and public venues, promoting societal inclusivity. This paper highlights how retrofitting fosters equality in both sports and society, emphasizing its role in advancing an inclusive and accessible future.
Tokyo’s Olympic legacy acknowledges population ageing
Although Japan has the oldest population in the world, creating accessible urban spaces is making very slow progress. Tokyo aimed to have all parts of the city that linked to the Olympic venues completely barrier-free. That includes buildings, transportation, services and open spaces. Tokyo’s Olympic legacy is discussed in an open access book chapter.
Deidre Sneep discusses the issues regarding the urban design legacy in the Japanese context and commercialisation. The title of the book chapter on page 91 is, Discover tomorrow: Tokyo’s ‘barrier-free’ Olympic legacy and the urban ageing population. It’s free to download, but if you have institutional access you can access the journal article version.
One interesting aspect is that some argue that the government’s guide to promote a ‘barrier-free spirit’ makes it sound like an act of friendliness. Any kind of patronising attitude or slogan only serves to maintain marginalisation as the norm. Posters focus on young people and make barrier-free a special design. There are no older people in the pictures.
The implementation of the universal design concept is increasingly commercialised says Sneep. This is likely due to the history of universal design in Japan. One of the first international universal design conferences was held in Japan in 2002, and was led by giant product manufacturers such as Mitsubishi. The International Association for Universal Design (IAUD) remains active.
Abstract from journal article
In 2020 Tokyo will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games for the second time in history. With a strong emphasis on the future – Tokyo’s slogan for the Olympic Games is ‘Discover Tomorrow’ – Tokyo is branded as city of youth and hope. Tokyo’s demographics, however, show a different image: in the coming decades, it is expected that well over a third of the citizens will be over 65. Despite the focus on a youthful image, Tokyo is well aware of the fact that its demographics are rapidly shifting.
Governmental bodies have been actively trying to find solutions for anticipated problems related to the ageing population for decades. One of the solutions discussed and implemented is highlighted by the 2020 Olympics: the implementation of universal design in public spaces in the city in order to make it more easily accessible – in other words, making Tokyo ‘barrier-free’ (bariafurī).
This chapter presents the concept of ‘barrier-free’ in a Japanese setting, critically analyses the history and current implementation of the concept, pointing out that it seems to be increasingly commercialised, and evaluates the purpose of implementing the concept in the light of the 2020 Olympic Games.
Co-design is a term that emerged in the field of accessible and inclusive design. But co-design methods have been around for a long time in one form or another. Academics will recognise this as Participatory Action Research. Citizen science is a version of co-design that has its roots in environmental monitoring. This method is now used in urban planning and design.
Co-design and citizen science have similar principles. The common theme is being inclusive – that the people affected by design decisions help to shape them.
Is citizen science the same as co-design?
Citizen science, participatory action research, and co-design methods are all basically the same, but have roots in different disciplines.
Co-design strategies vary according to the context and complexity of the project as do citizen science projects. The Fifth Estate has an article that discusses citizen science as a method of community engagement in planning. It explains citizen science as a type of research that actively involves members of the public in the research process. Regardless, it makes sense to involve users in the process of the design. This is something the universal design movement has been advocating for some time.
“Citizen science has a long history in conservation and environmental monitoring, but has grown in momentum in recent years across a range of disciplines, including planning and urban design.”
Walkability in Tasmania
A citizen science approach was used in Tasmania. Residents audited the the local environment for barriers to walking. They identified priorities by using a walkability assessment tool taking photos, and participating in workshops. The information gathered was not only useful at a local level, but at state and national levels as well.
“Our use of citizen science is enabling researchers, policy makers and community members to work together to generate data and establish priorities to support walkability that reflects community needs.”
Citizen design science is a synthesis of citizen science and design science that uses a bottom-up approach. The transformation of a car park into a multifunctional public space is the subject of a citizen science paper from Turkey. The authors explain the project and how they went about engaging with citizens. The co-design process relies on communication between designers, residents, visitors and the local authority.
An additional outcome of the project was to establish a Citizen Participation Unit within the municipal authority to facilitate citizen coordination.
A key element of successful co-design is finding ways to design with non-designers through every stage of the project. Establishing a common language is essential for understanding the needs and thoughts of all participants. The authors break down the process into three parts:
Citizen science – type of data collected from participation
Citizen design – citizens actively design
Design science – translation of citizens’ ideas into designs by expert designers
The study showed that people without prior design knowledge are able to work constructively with professional designers.
Citizen Design Science is a co-design strategy for urban and architectural systems that uses design tools for citizens’ observation, experience, and local knowledge. The strategy improves the planning, design, and management of cities, urban habitats, and architectural structures.
This study is about the transformation of Atakent Car Park Area into a public space using a co-design process. Using design science data, two conceptual urban design projects were prepared. This included 178 local citizens’ wishes, needs, and suggestions about the area. Participating citizens were asked to vote for their preferred project and the selected conceptual design was implemented. Laypersons without prior design knowledge were able to establish a common language with a professional designer.
Age-friendly green space by citizen science
In many cities at least a quarter of the population will be over the age of 65 years by 2030. Adelaide in South Australia has one of the oldest populations at 37% over the age of 50. So this is a good place to run a citizen science pilot with older residents.
The method involved the use of smart phones to collect data, and the development of audit tools. The participants were encouraged to go about their daily lives so that the data reflected their natural life.
While the data were not the main focus of the project, several important design elements emerged. In order of importance they were: seating, street trees, natural bushland, park trees and lakes/river/ocean. The researchers noted that public green spaces in local neighbourhoods may be seen as “green corridors” – a conduit to everyday life rather than destinations in themselves. They conclude that citizen science methods are a good way to implement age-friendly urban design at a detailed level.
The quality of public green spaces is mostly measured through expert assessments by planners, designers and developers. A disadvantage of this expert-determined approach is that it often does not consider the appraisals or perceptions of residents. Daily experience, often over long periods of time, means older residents have acquired insider knowledge of their neighbourhood, and thus, may be more qualified to assess these spaces, including measuring what makes a valued or quality public green space.
Age-friendly university with citizen science
And a university campus provides a neat environment for a case study. Researchers at the University of Manitoba went about examining the age-friendliness of their campus using specific citizen science techniques. This is all documented in their article,Exploring University Age-Friendliness Using Collaborative Citizen Science.
The main aim was to test the method, but the data collected were useful as well. The data revealed physical accessibility, signage, and transportation as being the most important for improving overall age-friendliness.
The age-friendly university initiative began in Ireland at the Dublin City University and has turned into a global network. Academic institutions looking to complete assessments of their age-friendliness, particularly those exploring physical barriers and supports, could benefit from incorporating older citizen scientists into the process of collecting, analyzing, and mobilizing findings. You can read more about this global movement in a Forbes article.
Despite laws and policies, new building projects are still creating barriers that exclude people with disability. So where does it all go wrong? Urban design choices essential to ensure a universal design outcome are left too late in the process to deal with them. Conflicts between city departments as well as city and private developer goals are part of the problem. Their goals don’t match.
“…it was clear that the earlier phases, especially the planning and projecting phase, were critical, where most decisions and design choices took place that could result in either an inclusive or exclusive design.”
Three Swedish researchers delved into the design choices made in the the development of major built environment projects. They wanted to find out when universal design concepts fell through the gaps.
Conflicting visions and goals in the design process
The researchers found that the city itself had clear competing goals between private and public interests. There were even different views and goals within different departments about desirable design choices.
There are conflicts between the amount and the quality of urban development and how an ideal densified city should be designed. This is a serious challenge to universal design solutions as well as basic accessibility.
Balancing conflicts of interests and ideas between green and socially sustainable development also arose in the research. Urban design trends also challenge design choices that support universal design.
“There is no focus on who will live in the new homes, only how many new citizens the city will get.” This does not support the obligations for the Sustainable Development Goals, or the UN Convention for people with disability.
Image from the research paper
The research paper includes examples with photos to explain how universal design would have been easy and cost effective to include from the outset. They conclude with seven recommendations, many of which are based on education and coordination of effort.
Refurbishment projects, however, appear to be better at including universal design concepts. Perhaps experience is not an educator – the rectifications on one project do not always result in better outcomes next time.
Despite laws, policies and visions to create cities and societies for all, barriers still exclude people with disability from using buildings and public places. We wanted to find out what choices were made and when they were made in the development process. We also wanted to know how and when these choices arise during the process. Our other question was what is needed to implement universal design as a strategy to include everyone.
The study involved employees and private actors in city development processes. They were asked to identify impediments and support of universal design in completed building projects. We wanted to know what choices were made and in what conditions universal design could be implemented in the process.
The analysis was based on qualitative data from workshops and interviews. The findings show that accessibility for all users is dealt with (too) late in the process, often giving rise to special solutions.
Urban trends such as densification and high exploitation can cause the exclusion of some users. An unbalanced view of sustainable development that prioritises ecological aspects puts high demands on users’ abilities.
The findings also show that universal design appears more clearly in remodelling projects than in new constructions. Other factors such as pre-studies that include human diversity, allocation of resources and experts’ early opinions also prove to be clear drivers for universal design. We conclude by providing seven recommendations for addressing these challenges.
Are the lives of children really considered in our planning processes? The main reason for not walking to school is not the distance. There are several other factors at play here, particularly safety. However, getting to school and other activities is not a priority in land use and transport planning. Consequently, many schools are not conveniently and safely accessible by footpath or public transport. Result – they are reliant on cars.
Traffic, personal safety, convenience in busy schedules, lack of safe, reliable public transport are key issues. Consequently, driving is seen as the only viable option to ensure children arrive safely and on time.
Hulya Gilbert and Ian Woodcock discuss the issues in an article in The Fifth Estate. Road trauma is the leading cause of death for 1-14 year olds. That’s one issue. The other is that using the car for safety and convenience reduces physical activity. Getting to school on foot is good for gaining independence and opens up opportunities for social interaction.
School drop-off danger zone
Poor planning on the placement of schools often results in chaotic and dangerous school drop-offs. Gilbert and Woodcock say the afternoon pick ups are the most dangerous of all. Local school travel plans attempt to overcome some of the issues, but it is a piecemeal approach.
An alternative approach: Child Friendly Index
With a focus on population ageing there is a risk of leaving children out of urban planning decisions. However, what is good for children is good for everyone. Gilbert and Woodcock have devised a Child-Friendliness Index which combines social and built environment attributes. The Index demonstrates that areas with higher levels of friendliness have higher levels of walking, cycling and public transport when accessing schools.
The Index enhances understanding of what attributes make a ‘local school’. It provides concrete pointers towards specific actions and interventions. As such it supports the development of clear polices so that children can reach a wider range of environments.
Once again, designing for a marginalised group has benefits for everyone. Children should always be part of a universal design approach. Their experiences matter too.
Universal design in its broadest sense is about social sustainability. As such it links closely with other sustainability concepts such as “green” building and healthy cities. Sustainable design is like universal design because it is good design. That means it is less likely to be noticed until it’s not there. Four articles explain more on this topic.
Can universal design create social sustainability?
Applying the principles of universal design at the formation stage of planning can lead to harmonious, accessible, sustainable and healthy cities. This is the conclusion of a European study.
The study looked at the design and development of city space from the perspective of the varying levels of human capabilities. The overall aim of the research was to raise the quality of urban planning, and to develop tools for healthy cities compatible with the principles of sustainability. You can download the PDF of Sustainable Urban Development: Spatial Analyses as Novel Tools for Planning a Universally Designed City, by Joanna Borowczyk.
Forgotten social sustainability
When it comes to sustainability, how many people think about social sustainability as well? Environments and people are inter-linked. The Sustainable Development Goals make this clear and one unifying factor is universal design. A new book chapter investigates the issues further.
“In this chapter, Rieger and Iantkow discuss socially sustainable design, especially its emphasis on universal and inclusive design. They present a history of thinking on accessible design in Alberta, which has moved toward greater inclusion. They also explain the incorporation of these concepts in design education and a greater social consciousness toward the need for accessibility. However, they stress that this isn’t enough.
Sustainability from an ergonomic perspective
The focus of sustainability has been on energy efficiency and all things “green”. But sustainability should have a broader context argues Erminia Attaianese. She claims that this narrow focus is paradoxical as maximising the building’s efficiency is not always maximising the comfort and efficiency of the building’s occupants.
“Green” buildings are often labelled and measured as “sustainable” but social sustainability is missing from the list. True sustainability includes social, economic and environmental factors. The US LEED green building rating system uses the term “sustainable throughout but is focused more on environmental factors. This is confusing because green is not the same as sustainable.
Stella Shao in a thesis poster says that as a consequence we are getting “energy efficient buildings that are not designed for people”. Prioritising social sustainability is good for people and the planet.
Using the Tulsa City-County Library as an example of sustainable design Shao lists three key factors for social sustainability
Comfort rooms for people who are neurodivergent, nursing, overstimulated, or need privacy for religious rituals.
Universal wayfinding to help orient people to make the space legible for people of different cultures, languages and abilities.
Comfort options for visual, acoustic and spatial comfort so every visitor can find a space comfortable for them.
Image from the poster
Shao’s literature review for this study revealed very few research articles on this topic which meant there was no best practice to refer to.
While green buildings today are labeled as “sustainable,” many fall short on social sustainability metrics. This study examines what the current state of research and development is on social sustainability in green buildings and what the best practices are.
Green building rating systems are a major trend in the academic research. However, they are criticized for valuing environmental sustainability over social sustainability. Document analysis confirms that LEED, the most widely used green building rating system, does not adequately address social sustainability.
The LEED-certified Tulsa City-County Library demonstrates how to properly balance social and environmental sustainability in a building. Recommendations are made for future green buildings based on the data collected.
An article focused on the social dimension of sustainability says that universal design is the way to go. It argues that there are promising results for a better future for social sustainability. In doing so, it presents universal design in all its formats in a clear and informed way. The way in which universal design is presented and discussed has particular clarity. For example,
“Universal design is always accessible, but because it integrates accessibility from the beginning of the design process, it is less likely to be noticeable.
Universal design sometimes employs adaptable strategies for achieving customization, but it is best when all choices are presented equally. Some universal design is transgenerational, but the approach is inclusive of more than just age-related disabilities.
Universal design is sometimes adaptable and sometimes transgenerational but always accessible. Universal design, adaptable design, and transgenerational design are all subsets of accessible design. Sometimes a design can be considered to be two of these subsets, and some designs are all three. Not all accessible design is universal. Universal design is the most inclusive and least stigmatizing of the three types of accessible design because it addresses all types of human variation and accessibility is integrated into design solutions.”
The paper concludes that design schools should include the philosophy of universal design throughout their education program.
Despite of the number of people injured in the Iran-Iraq war, and legislation for accessibility, urban spaces in Tehran still have a long way to go.
Hence this article outlining research on finding solutions for increasing access in the built environment. The research asks: What is causing inefficiency in the regulation of universal design, why is social participation by people with disabilities limited, and which factors are contributing to universal design? It seems the issues are worldwide regardless of whether the population is affected by war.
The consequences show that many of problems are rooted in cultural issues. The people must attend to disability as a public concern which can involve everybody. They must comprehend that all members of society, regardless of their physical condition, have the right to use public facilities independently.
The second problem is related to lack of any integrated approach to applying universal design. This research proposes some solutions such as preparation a universal design master plan, an integrated approach for implementation project in all organizations, and public education for improving citizens’ knowledge about universal design.
The smart city concept offers promising solutions using technology to optimise infrastructure and services. However, whether people with disability and others will benefit is unknown. Data insights and assistive technology should offer solutions for inclusive environments, but do they? Researchers in the UK outline the challenges for people with disability and explore the role of smart solutions in urban planning. Based on their findings, the researchers propose policy recommendations.
Briefly the challenges are:
Physical barriers
Transportation challenges
Communication barriers
Social isolation
Emergency preparedness
Financial barriers
Policy implications and recommendations
The smart city recommendations below are explained further in the research paper.
Inclusive urban planning frameworks and ensuring access standards are always applied
Collaborative governance models, and co-design with stakeholders
Access standards and guidelines specifically for smart city initiatives for all infrastructure
Inclusive procurement practices for products and services that meet access standards
Accessible public transportation across infrastructure, system planning and services
Data privacy and security means updating privacy laws and regulations
Capacity building and training based on universal design principles and assistive technology
Funding mechanisms to ensure dedicated funding streams are available for innovations
Prioritising accessibility in smart city initiatives can engender social inclusion and economic empowerment for all residents. Embracing universal design principles advances a more just urban future for all.
Smart cities hold great promise for revolutionising urban living. However, their potential to improve the lives of people with disabilities remains underexplored. This paper investigates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in everyday urban environments. It explores how smart technology can mitigate these challenges.
By leveraging data-driven insights, smart cities can create more inclusive environments that enhance the overall quality of life for people with disability. This paper discusses the various issues encountered by individuals with disabilities and proposes strategies for utilising smart technology to address these challenges effectively.
Smart cities: the road to inclusion?
The smart city is about connecting technology with urban planning. But will it solve all the accessibility and inclusion problems?
Women, children and people with disability face difficulties accessing public space. This is because of safety concerns and physical barriers in the built environment. But public space must be welcoming and meaningful for all citizens. This is where community-led activities in designing public space becomes important.
Two researchers looked at digital technologies to see how they could help reframe public space design to be more inclusive. Technology should go beyond data collection to playing a central role in promoting social responsibility. Their research established a framework for creating inclusive public spaces based on site visits and users’ opinions.
The research study emphasises the importance of involving citizens in the governance of public spaces. They provide valuable data and insights about the quality and use of these spaces.
Involving citizens in leveraging smart technology for monitoring, providing real-time information and services improves facility efficiency, and creates an eco-friendly environment.
This paper promotes the development of an urban public space that caters for a diverse community, fostering a sense of belonging and well-being for all.
Although technology offers several benefits for more inclusive and liveable environments, there are also drawbacks.
Inclusiveness is embedded in the London Smart City Strategy, but there is still room for improvement.
Improving citizen engagement through collaborations, increased transparency, and measures for preventing data misuse and misinterpretation will boost inclusiveness.
The London case study highlights the potential barriers in implementing inclusive strategies for smart cities in practice. The valuable lessons may provide good information for other cities.
Good health is an outcome of smart cities if data is collected and analysed within an inclusive framework. See a comprehensive look at all the issues in Building Sustainable and Inclusive Smart Cities. Chapter 11 focuses on health and wellbeing.
Smart cities: a revolution?
City-wide technology offers hope for people with disability, but only if there is a shift towards universal design and inclusive solutions.
An article by Marcin Frackiewicz discusses the possibilities for smart and inclusive cities from a optimistic perspective of technology.
Street cameras to help keep people safe and automatic doors are commonplace technology. And newer ideas such as ridesharing are possible because of technology. Apps for real-time updates for public transport to minimise unpleasant surprises. So what else can we look forward to?
Frackiewicz claims that the use of data for fine-tune urban services enables a place for “undervalued voices”. He optimistically says smart city technology is equalising, by making sure that everyone thrives.
How to design a smart city that’s inclusive of wheelchair users? That was the challenge for a diverse group of engineers. Their project goal was to create a 3D simulation of a smart city that is sustainable and accessible as well as smart.
Underpinning their design concepts were the Sustainable Development Goals. These goals have inclusion and universal design at their heart. The team documented their project from the formation of their group through to the final creation.
Their report shows pictures of their Lego creations, sketches and artist impressions of sites. Smart services are the vision for the future, such as autonomous vehicles and how they will fit into the fabric of our community designs. They also considered smart parking, trains, trash systems and lighting.
This is a very detailed but well-laid out report. It reads more like a story, with plenty to share, including their spin-off into mobile apps. They had planned to do the final presentation using virtual reality, but COVID-19 and a university shut-down cut that short. The title of the 19MB report is, Smart City Simulator: “Phase Two” – The Wheelchair Challenge.
From the abstract
Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet) assigned a project with the aim of addressing these issues. The main part of the task was to create a wheelchair accessible Smart City, as a visual simulation. Researchers focused on wheelchair users and all kinds of limitations: blindness, deafness, mobility difficulties, old, young, and pregnant women.
Based on our results, a Lego model built by Oracle, we asked participants what belongs in a Smart City, and what challenges specifically the participants with disabilities have in their everyday life in cities.
After the research, we decided to create a Smart City in Universal Design. We implemented an electric autonomous public transport system, a smart trash system, a smart parking system and a smart lighting system.
Gender equity for women is a fine aim, but it’s not just about social attitudes or equal pay. Urban environments have a role to play when it comes to workforce participation. According to researchers in the UK, the way we design urban spaces is yet to catch up with this aim. Their paper on gender responsive urban planning takes a user-centred look at how women use urban space.
It wasn’t so long ago that women stayed home performing household tasks and walking to the shops for daily food supplies. Meanwhile, men were free to range the urban environment, assuming they were fit and able.
People produce spaces through their everyday use. Feelings of streets, squares and other spaces are important aspects in how they are experienced. This is essential knowledge for urban planners.
The researchers’ exploratory study involved participants taking a walk to a central point and then giving feedback. Accessibility, comfort, safety and convenience emerged as themes. Their research paper outlines the method in detail and poses future planning strategies.
Future planning strategies
Planning strategies identified in the study included:
Incorporating social activities, not just economic ones, that embrace diversity and promote inclusion. Temporary art spaces and pop-up streets are two examples
Seeing and being seen give a sense of safety. More lighting to illuminate dark places such as underpasses
Aesthetic features add to the sense of comfort and safety. More greenery, street furniture, attractive shopfronts artworks and fountains
In the UK shops with awnings are not commonplace, but awnings offer shelter from the weather, particularly the rain. Another simple by useful strategy to make places more welcoming.
Editor’s note on terminology: if a study is about women specifically, it should say so. “Gender responsive” studies should be seen from a broader perspective and not used as code for women. However, environments designed with women in mind will be more comfortable for more people and take in gender diverse communities.
From the abstract
This research investigates gender walks as a method for gathering knowledge in urban planning and design processes. It is about gender-sensitive design, which aims to tackle gender inequalities in cities.
Intersectional gender-aware design is complex. Therefore we look at walking – in its simplicity and effectiveness – as a responding strategy. A comparison of three existing exploratory walk insights outlines the criteria for the initial design of our walking audit method.
The knowledge gained on gender-aware planning from both urban design and sociological perspectives provide support and critique for the ongoing City Centre Transformation Programme. The aim is to optimise public spaces for women’s inclusion, safety and enjoyment.
Gender inclusivity in streetscapes
In 2010 the Los Angeles Department of Transport published a report on gender inclusivity in streetscapes and transportation planning. The findings showed women and girls, especially those on low incomes, were at a disadvantage in this car-centric city. So what to do about it? The Department of Transport devised infrastructure design strategies that also included amenities in streetscapes.
While there is discussion about gender differences in transportation needs, little improvement has been made to solve the issues. And this is not just in Los Angeles. The first transportation report,Changing Lanes, provided the baseline information. The follow up is a report, using case studies, provides design strategies.
Case studies
Five case studies from different cities informed the recommendations.
Street Lighting: Seattle
Public Seating: New York
Bus Stop Amenities: Portland, Oregon
Pedestrian Infrastructure: Minneapolis
Bicycle Infrastructure: Austin
Photo credit Steve Morgan for TriMet, Portland Oregon.
Note the small seat or shelf on the the bus stop pole. Perhaps a perch seat higher up the pole is better for people who cannot rise from a seat placed so low. The bottom right photo indicates a cycle lane between the bus shelter and the boarding platform. However, there is space for prams and wheelchairs under the shelter. Backrests on the seats would add extra comfort.
Planning recommendations
Six recommendations for improvements are based on the case studies.
Take a proactive approach to identifying deficiencies in infrastructure
Use geospatial data to prioritise
Set quantitative goals with success criteria
Establish goals between city agencies for partnerships and cooperation
Collect self-disclosed information on the gender of participants during public outreach
Include a gender equity component in project prioritisation methods
This is an easy to read report which supports other research on inclusive and accessible infrastructure. For example, wide level footpaths, kerb extensions and pedestrian safety islands.
The title of the report is Designing Streetscapes for Gender Inclusivity, published by UCLA Institute of Transportation Studies. There are some good examples applicable to many other jurisdictions.
From the abstract
Within the US, Los Angeles has been at the forefront of making efforts to factor gender inclusivity into transportation planning. In 2021, LADOT released Changing Lanes: A Gender Equity Transportation Study. This study found that LA’s current transportation system is not adequately serving low-income people of colour, women, girls, and gender diverse groups.
To address these inequities, LADOT is taking the next steps to implement gender-inclusive transportation infrastructure design strategies. This paper presents case studies that support walking, biking, rolling, and waiting.
Each case study focused on a different strategy for improving gender inclusivity in streetscape design. That is, pedestrian street lighting, public seating, bus stop amenities, pedestrian infrastructure, and bike infrastructure. The implementation of these design strategies can ensure the needs of women, girls, and gender diverse groups who rely on active transportation and public transit are met.
Gender neutral toilet facilities are the subject of discussion in academic research, legislation and architectural briefs. Urban planners say any toilet away from home should be informed by the proportion of needs in society. Enter the gender neutral category of amenity as the solution that can best resist bias and discrimination. But maybe it doesn’t.
Nicole Kalms and Laura McVey argue that “the proposed legislative changes for the provision of ‘all gender’, ‘gender-neutral’ or ‘unisex’ toilets operate under an incorrect assumption that gender neutrality will lead to greater inclusion”.
The proposed legislative changes note that one in 500 people in Victoria identify as trans, but fail to note that one in two Victorians are women. Kalms and McVey claim that rather than offering inclusivity, it will further penalise those already disadvantaged in amenity design.
The issue of signage
Repurposing women’s public facilities or accessible toilets as gender-neutral is an ad hoc response to the real issues.
“This will multiply the ad hoc arrangements where a sign and/symbol on an existing ‘female’ or ‘disabled’ toilet provides a ‘gender-neutral’ or ‘all genders’ amenity, leaving the men’s facility intact”. Indeed, it will double men’s toilet options.
The article goes on to discuss different sections of the population including people who are homeless, and women from culturally diverse backgrounds. Public toilets are also places of personal care and of refuge from sexual violence. An important discussion paper which shows how the default to the male toilet is the norm – they remain the same. Women’s toilets have become the “adaptable” quick-fix place for all other groups. But at the cost to whom?
In summary
“We therefore suggest that current reform proposals for inclusivity do not go far enough, and put forward the need for a more ‘radical redesign of public sanitary facilities. Such a radical redesign, we argue, requires a needs based design ethos based on users’ requirements. This approach reiterates the importance of more inclusive design, but does so by considering and prioritising those most significantly and disproportionately impacted and neglected by current design.”
The title of the book chapter is, Commentary on Let Us Pee in The Feminist Legislation Project. An important discussion on how easy it is to exclude people in design, albeit unintentionally. Another reason for engaging in co-design and co-creation processes.
Although Japan has the oldest population in the world, creating accessible urban spaces is making very slow progress. 
