Social conflicts over public space : a case study of Hornsbergs strand, Stockholm

Sammanfattning: This study of Hornsbergs strand, Stockholm, aimed to explore the dynamics of social conflicts in public spaces following three research questions: (1) what are the driving factors in the spatial conflicts between inhabitants and visitors of Hornsbergs strand, (2) how do spatial conflicts in Hornsbergs strand reflect broader societal issues of polarization and segregation in Stockholm, and (3) what can be done on behalf of urban planners to avoid and manage similar conflicts in the future? Departing from literature related to spatial conflicts, tourism conflicts, and exclusionary practices in public spaces, I conducted observational studies, indepth interviews, and a document analysis of planning material. The study shows that differences between users and uses of public spaces in Hornsbergs strand are central in constructing spatial territories and was where most spatial conflicts originated. Further, results suggest that the development of Hornsbergs strand was made through an exclusive planning process, and that spatial conflicts reflect broader issues of polarization and segregation in Stockholm.