Abstract/Summary

Community participation is considered as highly desirable and a positive contribution to the urban design process and the places it shapes. Several frameworks for urban design processes have been proposed that take different approaches to participation, but few consider the practical implications. Using Malta as a case study and Carmona's (2014) Place-Shaping Continuum as a conceptual framework, this study explores how a participatory urban design process can inform an approach to introducing shared space in streets and squares. In Malta, such a participatory approach needs to take into account cultural issues such as apathetic local communities and a strong car culture. The latter has led to large parts of public space being taken over by the private car, with negative effects on walkability and quality of life. Based on analysis of policy documents and interviews with key stakeholders, this research seeks to explore how the socio-economic and political context, stakeholder attitudes and power dynamics, and the urban design process influence the adoption of a participatory approach. This research tests the validity of the Place-Shaping Continuum in a different context, and identifies two main adaptations, which consist of the need to give more consideration to how participation influences the urban design process, and to give more importance to the role of those who lead and coordinate the urban design process. The research also adds to the body of knowledge on the adoption of a participatory urban design process in Malta and identifies six recommendations for policy and practice, which include the need to depoliticise the urban design field, the collaborative development of visions and strategies, and the need for professionals trained to facilitate participatory processes. Three recommendations were made regarding shared space, including the need to address car culture first and not to overemphasise shared space.