الفهرس | Only 14 pages are availabe for public view |
Abstract Despite the negative perception and impacts of the increasing informal economy practices on the different aspects of the city, experts argue that the informal economy, notably informal markets, and street vendors have a great potential of enhancing the quality of life for city dwellers. where these practices are believed to stimulate pedestrian movement and circulation providing good urban spaces. In that context, the aim of this research is to study to what extent informal economy practices participate in achieving good public spaces. To attain the aims of the research, the thesis provides literature that offers a clear understanding of the informal economy in addition to an explanation of the theory of conviviality that tackles the aspects of creating good public space. Based on the given literature, a framework has been developed to support the empirical study that took place in 10 informal markets in Cairo and adopts a descriptive approach where primary data was retrieved through observation supported by secondary data from literature and the ISDF. The research findings show that Informal markets have a noticeable impact on increasing the vitality of the streets where most markets force the provision of pedestrian movement stimulating social interaction. Thus, with the proper management and inclusion of these practices in the planning process, informal markets have the potential to enhance the quality of public spaces. |