Re-Examine Conventional Concepts in Urban Design: The Conflict Between Urban Space Utilization and the Elements of Power and Control - Case of Hawkers within Amman, Jordan

Abstract

Architecture and urbanism are disciplines based on knowledge of space. From this point of view, this research aims to study the challenges of dealing with hawkers (Street Vendors) in Jordan's urban centres generally by shedding light on downtown Amman. Although they succeed in acquiring and controlling space informally in Amman, hawkers have been ignored by local planners and even been harassed by local authorities for not being given space to operate their businesses. Rigid transformations should be carried in urban planning strategies in downtown Amman. Local policies need to be enforced to end this conflict and provide suitable conditions and capacities to read and respond to the hawkers' needs. They represent an integral part of the region's urban fabric. This study is based on reviewing related literature, field survey, and observations carried out for two months in the study area. In addition to several informal discussions held with the hawkers, pedestrians, merchants, and local authorities, questionnaires were used to clarify specific issues. The study suggests a few recommendations to help fulfil urban centres' effective utilization and harmonize formal activities and the hawkers in order to resolve this conflict. The study found that street hawkers are only considered troublemakers and have never been involved in decision-making when urban planning occurs. These will be an ongoing issue, not unless they are integrated into the planning processes. The study suggests different scenarios for proper allocation of hawking space can be done regarding accommodating them according to their space requirements worked out the basis of the products sold, as has been done in the present study. In short, this will help in providing suitable trading environments for the hawkers, creating a pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood, decreasing the unemployment rate, among other advantages.