Policy Implementation & Public Systems
Arne Lindahl
Applied learning focused on policy implementation across public systems and delivery.
Policy Observation: Urban Space Activation and Behavioural Uptake in Dundee Waterfront Regeneration Area
Arne Lindahl
Structural Issue Identified
Urban regeneration projects often aim to support climate policy goals by improving walkability, encouraging active travel, and strengthening the social use of public space. However, the presence of physical infrastructure does not automatically translate into sustained public activity or behavioural change.
Understanding how regenerated urban spaces are actually used in everyday conditions can provide insight into how design decisions influence mobility patterns, social interaction, and the uptake of low carbon transport behaviour.
What problem this work relates to
This observation relates to the broader policy challenge of aligning urban design with behavioural outcomes linked to climate and mobility policy.
Policy frameworks such as Scotland’s National Transport Strategy, the Active Travel Framework, and the EU Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy emphasise walking, cycling, and accessible public space as key components of climate transition.
However, behavioural uptake depends not only on infrastructure provision but also on factors such as seating design, commercial activity, spatial connectivity, and perceived comfort within the built environment.
Observing how regenerated public spaces are used in practice can provide insight into how these factors interact with policy objectives.
Structural Adjustment & Implementation
An independent field observation was conducted at Dundee Waterfront, including the areas around City Quay, Slessor Gardens, and the promenade surrounding the V&A Museum.
The observation period lasted approximately four hours during favourable weather conditions suitable for outdoor activity.
The purpose of the visit was to observe patterns of public behaviour within the regenerated waterfront environment and consider these patterns in relation to policy ambitions surrounding active travel, modal shift, and public space activation.
Observed factors included levels of pedestrian activity, seating use, presence of commercial activity, cycling infrastructure, and connectivity between the waterfront and surrounding city areas.
Observable Effect
Activity levels within the waterfront promenade appeared relatively low considering the scale of the redevelopment and favourable weather conditions. Most individuals moved through the area rather than remaining for extended periods.
Sustained activity was concentrated in a small area containing children’s play features and a coffee van near the V&A museum, while other areas of the promenade appeared under-used.
Observations also suggested that seating orientation, limited commercial activation, and weak visual connections between the city centre and waterfront may influence how the space is used.
These observations highlight the potential gap between urban design intentions and behavioural outcomes, particularly where climate and mobility policies rely on active use of public space.
Practice note: This observation forms part of an ongoing practice examining how climate, transport, and urban design policy frameworks translate into everyday behaviour within public space environments.
Related Work:
Relevant Institutions and Policy Frameworks
The Scottish Government (through its National Transport Strategy and Active Travel Framework) and the European Union (through its Fit for 55 framework) both set policy directions to decarbonize transport by prioritizing walking, cycling, and a shift away from cars.