The revitalisation of inner cities through arts and cultural precincts : a case for Durban.

Abstract

Most cities are faced with the issue of decline that often causes segregation between people and places within its walls. Often, the problem lies in the condition of these cities. Cities are no longer bustling, active places that attract people and encourage lingering within, but rather have become places that are unhealthy and feel unsafe (Ravenscroft, 2000; 2534: Oc and Tiesdell, 1997; 5). In some cases, fragmentation takes place, which encourages clustering and segregation between race groups, economic groups and even age groups. The city is no longer a place for everyone within its footprint, but rather a collection of fragments which further divide areas into mono-functional or single demographic zones. The purpose of this dissertation is to investigate the issues around the topic of decline and to gain understanding of the governing factors that contribute to the decline of cities. By understanding the causes of decline, one can further derive conclusions as to how these cities can be revitalised into places that are liveable, healthy environments that encourage activity and occupation. Further issues to be investigated are the creation of ‘Place’ within the city, as well as the methods on how existing boundaries can be bridged to create a more interconnected and integrated city. The current boundaries that exist within the city include physical boundaries (such as unoccupied and decaying buildings, vacant land, highways and roads), social boundaries (between various races, ages, backgrounds and religions) and economic boundaries. The idea of using Arts and Culture as method of revitalisation and integration will be explored for the purpose of this dissertation.