IN-PERSON Barcelona Livable Cities. Section A

Abstract

It is estimated that 15-20 percent of word population are neurodivergent (e.g. with autism, ADHD) whose interaction with the environment through their senses are different from neurotypical people. Currently in Australia, accessibility design requirements primarily focus on designing for physical disabilities, and inadequately address the needs of neurodivergent individuals. This is a common approach around the world. Exclusion of this population from urban public spaces will widen inequalities in access to infrastructure and wellbeing, threatening the social sustainability of our cities. Academic research on this topic is limited, thus a scoping literature review will identify potential areas for future investigation. This presentation will draw on our findings from a scoping review which identifies studies on environmental needs and sensory sensitivities of neurodivergent individuals in public open spaces. They include smell, crowd, noise, lighting, thermal comfort and wayfinding. We will also demonstrate how these needs can be accommodated in public open spaces through various forms (e.g., street furniture, footpaths, signage, transport stations, space connectivity, and maintenance) to create a network of neurodiverse-friendly public spaces. The presentation will identify knowledge gaps and provide recommendations for future research and practice to advance inclusive urban design.