Edinburgh prioritizes women’s safety in urban planning reforms

In a significant initiative, the city of Edinburgh, Scotland, is adopting a feminist approach in its urban planning efforts. This move comes as the council aims to improve safety and accommodate the needs of women and people of marginalized genders. The plans include commissioning statues and naming roads after women, which is a part of a broader strategy to create a more inclusive environment. The council is taking inspiration from various European cities, notably Vienna and Barcelona, which have previously implemented gender-focused urban planning manuals. These recommendations have proven successful and are now being tailored for principles that will be applied within Edinburgh. Key recommendations include increasing the width of pavements to allow for easier movement, adding more benches in public spaces to encourage social interaction and rest for individuals, improving lighting to enhance safety during dark hours, and installing ramps to make areas more accessible for people requiring wheelchairs or strollers. Additionally, there are aims to visibly commemorate women and the queer community through public art and infrastructure, addressing a historical imbalance where animals have been more frequently memorialized than women in the city's statues. This initiative is part of a larger trend among cities worldwide to reassess urban design principles, ensuring that they reflect the needs of all citizens. By prioritizing the safety and comfort of marginalized genders, Edinburgh is paving the way for a transformative urban experience. Citizens are encouraged to participate in discussions and provide input on these changes, fostering a community-driven approach. The decision reflects an increasing awareness and acknowledgment of gender bias in urban environments. With this initiative, Edinburgh is not only addressing immediate safety concerns but is also challenging the traditional narratives of urban design which often neglect the experiences of women and marginalized groups. This shift in planning philosophy may inspire other cities to reevaluate their own urban policies and the histories they choose to memorialize in public spaces.