Alleys to streets: Understanding urban transformations through the prism of diverse pedestrian experiences

Viewed through the lens of walking, this research analyses the contribution of an urban transformation to the Right to the City (RTTC). Walking as a mode of transport is a potential ‘equalising mode’ related to social, economic and environmental inequalities. Understanding an urban transformation through its effect on the experiences of pedestrians is a way to reflect on its contribution to the RTTC. The case is a settlement upgrading project in Maputo that led to the transformation of alleys into streets. The effects of this transformation are illustrated via a comparative analysis of a geolocated survey that captured the diverse walking experiences of inhabitants, comparing those of pedestrians that live in two areas that have been transformed, to those of residents and pedestrians in other parts of the studied neighbourhood. The analysis considers intersectional sociodemographic characteristic, acknowledging that the same urban environment is experienced and perceived differently by diverse individuals. Results show that, regardless of location, walking is the main mode of transport for people in the case study. The study indicates that physical interventions in the walking environment contribute to the RTTC by enabling diverse individuals to use their city accessing safely and with enjoyment their daily activities, albeit in different ways.