1266 | 35 | Gender relations in new suburban housing estates: What does transformative urban-ism actually transform?

Suburban residential quarters have been criticised to foster unequal gender relations. Especially the spatial layout of the housing estates and the car-oriented transport infrastructure were seen as problematic. Gender-sensitive planning has emerged in the 1990s and promised that improved and more flexible spaces, tailored to the needs of women as well as men and especially caregivers of all genders, would bring about more opportunities for all and thereby, eventually, gender equality. It has been argued, however, that a recognition of reproductive tasks by planning better infrastructure does not bring about equality but merely eases the burden for the main caregivers._x000D_
Many cities across Europe are currently planning new expansion projects at the outskirts. These aspire to differ from earlier ones, especially in terms of infrastructure provision and the multifuncionality of spaces. One of these projects is Hamburg-Oberbillwerder. Its master plan has a strong focus on transportation: Guiding principles are, firstly, the “Connected City” which aims to connect OBW to the neighbouring districts as well as to Hamburg’s city centre, and, secondly, the “Active City” which is to contribute to exercise and a healthy lifestyle based on walking and cycling. Mobility Hubs will significantly reduce stationary traffic and add to a lively atmosphere. _x000D_
In my presentation, I will discuss the plans for the new district based on a qualitiative content analysis. I will show that many of the demands of feminist and gender-sensitive planning and transport critique have been incorporated, making suburban transport less car-dependent, more diverse and more accessible for all. A decidedly feminist/care-oriented perspective, however, has not been applied so that planning in this respect remains on a tactic level. A transformation of reproductive relations cannot be expected and is – unlike the transformation of travel behaviour – not seen as lying within the responsibility of planners.

Henriette Bertram
Kassel University, Germany

ID Abstract: 35