Gender Sensitivity in Urban Design: Strategies for More Inclusive Pedestrian Spaces in Tseung Kwan O, Hong Kong

As gender equality and women’s rights have gained significant attention globally, there is a significant gap in gender-sensitive urban design in Hong Kong. To address the need for a more inclusive approach in urban planning, more research is needed, particularly regarding women's perceptions of and satisfaction with street design. This research investigates gender-based differences in pedestrian satisfaction through a case study of Tseung Kwan O, a high-density new town in Hong Kong. Using survey data from users of four different pedestrian path types, the study identifies seven key factors influencing the public space perception of different genders. Findings indicate that women prioritize service facilities such as signage and shops, lighting, and landscape comfort, while men focus on road safety. Female pedestrians reported lower overall satisfaction, highlighting the need for gender-responsive interventions. The detailed findings of this study inform guiding principles for creating inclusive pedestrian spaces, by identifying various factors which impact satisfaction and relating these to neighbourhood characteristics. This work highlights the need to take gender into account in urban planning, and proposes an urban design approach for the future development of pedestrian spaces in Hong Kong, aiming for a more inclusive urban environment.