Reimagining urban public space: the impacts of urban renewal in the case of Voortrekker road corridor improvement district in Bellville, Cape Town

Abstract

Cities are economic growth engines that have the ability to increase investment and employment opportunities in the urban space. They allow access to institutions and better services to its population. Because of this reason, a high number of people are moving to the city for the opportunities that cities can offer. The increase in the number of people that reside in the city without proper development of infrastructure and services may result in urban decay. This study examines the impact of urban renewal interventions in the case of the Voortrekker Road Corridor Improvement District (VRCID) in the Bellville Central Business District (CBD) on the formation of- and practices in public space. The study used a qualitative research approach. Eight in-depth interviews were conducted. Non-participant observation and document analysis were also used as tools to collect data. The research data were analysed using thematic content analysis. The study area of Bellville forms part of the Tygerberg District strategy and has been undergoing renewal since 2012. Respondents indicated both positive and negative impacts. Findings show that urban renewal implementation in Bellville has contributed towards formal employment opportunities, and safety and security in the area have improved. However, there is a concern that urban renewal interventions are more into economic development and profit making than redevelopment. Furthermore, these interventions contribute to gentrified, financialized, and captured urban public spaces in Bellville. They have segregated the area. As a result, other spaces are considered safer than others.