Factors of Integration and Social Cohesion of Urban Facilities in the Northern and Southern Peripheries of Granada

Abstract

The study of urban facilities of the northern and southern districts of the city of Granada is proposed, which are observed from their spatial conditions of localization. The point would be to assess the way in which these conditions infl uence the ability of each urban facility to generate social cohesion in urban surroundings. Urban facilities have a social function as collective urban nodes, becoming meeting places and linking of the collective sphere. Currently, the social and spatial fragmentation of cities is increasingly higher, which deepens the social breaking up of public spaces. Thus, it is necessary to strengthen social cohesion using available public resources: public spaces and the set of urban facilities. A proper location of public buildings in the urban fabric -in terms of accessibility, proximity to residential areas, etc.-promotes social interaction and the strengthening of the social capital of the neighbourhoods. The research proposed a study on two levels, morphological and social. Each of them requires a triple methodology related to each other: cartographic, on a qualitative level, and on a quantitative one. The preliminary results of research are presented here. A comparable set of multifunctional urban facilities (civic centres, sports centres, and health centres) is addressed. The social dynamics of the surroundings of each one is analysed, trying to draw conclusions about the better or worse suitability of diverse solutions. Results allow us to conclude with a series of patterns and criteria of location and urban design of facilities in the city. Promoting the economic and social activation of urban areas and strengthening the social fabric are other research objectives. In addition, the aim would be to improve the conditions of urban location and design and relative to the public spaces attached.