Socio-spatial differentiation and public accessibility of urban spaces in the post-transformational city: case study Saint-Petersburg

In: Europa Regional, Band 19.2011, Heft 3-4, S. 48-63

Abstract

In present-day Saint-Petersburg socio-spatial differentiation can be observed in various morphological post-transformational urban zones, but has not yet led to full-fledged special polarization or segregation. At the same time, the extent of socio-spatial differentiation varies in morphologically different urban housing types and can only be understood on the basis of the historical context and residents' preferences. In order to understand their impact on socio-spatial differentiation of various urban areas more concretely, two studies were conduc- ted (one in 2007, another in 2009) with the participation of the authors of the present contribution. The results of these studies, which are based on two different samples of model zones or building types in Saint-Petersburg, showed that residents' preferences were driving socio-spatial differentiation or segregation both on a microscopic (for example, closed staircases in an open court with otherwise open staircases) and macroscopic scale (for example, closed suburban settlements or new high-rise buildings). The degree to which this segregation is spatially implemented depends on the income levels of residents and, of course, strongly correlates with real estate prices. No other significant drivers of socio-spatial differentiation or segregation have been identified, besides a desire by wealthier city residents to increase the security of person and property. No other significant drivers of such tendencies have been identified. For example, no mentionable correlation between the degree of commercial activity and the proportion of closed vs. publicly accessible spaces was discovered. Further research is proposed in order to better understand the impact of recent legislation on socio-spatial differentiation in Saint-Petersburg.