Goals
- Provide a clear definition between public and private spaces.
- Provide places for play and relaxation.
- Create a safe, well-lit, and easily surveyed pedestrian route.
- Employ sustainable landscape practices.
- Use easy-to-maintain, durable materials and designs.
Lessons Learned
Through participatory design and development with local leadership and the relevant municipal departments, the professional team was able to transform a high-crime area into a sustainable, multifunctional public space.
Keys to Success
Community participation in the design and implementation phases in Khayelitsha facilitated the development of designs for various components of the spaces. This enabled community participation, skills transfer, and ongoing work opportunities in the maintenance of the public spaces.
Local pride, involvement, and stewardship have been fundamental in reducing vandalism and urban violence, transforming the use and perception of the space.
Residents volunteered as security groups and participated in maintenance efforts. Many activities take place today in the new public space, which increases the eyes on the street and supports a sense of safety.
Involvement
Public Agencies
City of Cape Town, South African National Treasury, Federal German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, German Development Bank (KfW)
Citizen Associations and Nonprofits
The community of Khayelitsha, Khayelitsha Development Forum (KDF), VPUU NPC, Grassroots Soccer, Mosaic
Designers and Engineers
AHT Group AG/SUN Development Team, Tarna Klitzner Landscape Architects (TKLA), Jonker & Barnes Architects, Naylor Naylor Van Schalwyk, Talani, N2 Construction, and Ross Engineering