Urban Green Infrastructure in Rotterdam: Evaluating the project inclusivity of the Hofbogen- and Rijnhavenpark

Cingoz, Leander

Urban Green Infrastructure in Rotterdam: Evaluating the project inclusivity of the Hofbogen- and Rijnhavenpark

Authors

Cingoz, Leander

Issue Date

2024-09-15

Language

en

URI

https://theses.ubn.ru.nl/handle/123456789/17955

Abstract

Cities find themselves at the centre of global economic development, competing for high-skilled workforce, businesses, and investments. Over the last decades, this economic-centred approach has come under criticism for failing to address non-economic factors, such as ecological and social (eco-social) development. Urban green infrastructure (UGI) has been regarded by city halls across the globe as a means to enhance environmental credentials and ensure that all citizens have access to green spaces. In the case of Rotterdam, the Hofbogenpark and the Rijnhavenpark are regarded by the municipality as two of its key projects, reflecting its values of a sustainable and inclusive city. The inclusivity of UGI is, however, debatable. Some criticism relates to the project process, including the extent to which community interests are reflected in participation outcomes. Other criticism relates to more general socioeconomic impacts, such as rising housing prices in surrounding areas and the eventual expulsion of less affluents citizens. This thesis evaluates the project inclusivity of the Hofbogenpark and the Rijnhavenpark. The research follows a critical spatial theorist perspective and has acquired knowledge from policy officials and experts on the ground. The evaluation of these two major city projects, based on the aforementioned research framework, provides insights into whether and how cities are responding to a growing awareness for inclusive urban growth.