Accessible cities 2017-2020

This project is one of four interrelated and integrated projects that form part of one programme or suite of projects. This project is the main project and it builds upon the work that has been previously done between NMBM and the City of Gothenburg.

Based on the toolkit produced in the previous project we will examine how the relationship within and between suburban areas and other parts of the cities can be improved in order to create more accessible cities.

The project will focus on all aspects of access in our cities.
Access is to be considered in a broad interpretation of the word.

• Politically/democratically/socially
• Economically
• Spatially/physically
• Notionally

Access is not limited to the traditional concepts of access relating to mobility or proximity.
The project is based upon the recognition that the living conditions in Gothenburg and Nelson Mandela Bay can be improved through better urban development and redevelopment. Financial and policy Investments must be as sustainable as possible to realise city visions and scarce resources must be optimised with a long term view. These interventions must have regard to the accessibility of our cities.

The overall objective is to decrease the numbers of Citizens that do not have full access to the cities (in all the dimensions of accessibility) so that our cities are more just and sustainable. This will strengthen the cities as systems for justice as well as strengthen local communities. By ensuring that the services and investment are provided locally, more long term resilient communities are created. It will also improve the relationship to the rest of the city for every citizen.

Better knowledge of how investment decisions are made as well as planning processes regarding the theme of accessibility will contribute to reducing poverty and will develop more nuances of democracy.