Alfred Herrhausen Gesellschaft

Crime and unemployment are broadly linked. Endorsed by a wide range of funders, this Khayelitsha-based project aims to build safe and integrated communities by addressing issues of social, economic, cultural and institutional exclusion.

The project focuses on reclaiming public space by transforming it into a freely accessible arena for recreation and community life. Using indicators, a particular neighbourhood is targeted for development. Participatory urban appraisals are held to develop a community action plan for new social and recreational facilities, and safe, walkable paths between them, a process that generates high levels of ownership amongst residents. The project is revolutionary in that it proves, for the first time on a large scale, that inclusive, universal urban design principles, coupled with community consultation, have the power to reshape the most blighted landscapes.

http://www.vpuu.org/index2.php