IN-PERSON London. Section A

Abstract

Many cities in developing countries are unplanned and haphazardly developed, resulting in vacant and underutilized spaces. These underutilized spaces, known as Urban Voids, are the areas with ample opportunities and potential. The urban voids are the poles of creative possibilities, which help regenerate the city’s body and answer society’s concerns. Consequently, the right to exist of these unused spaces is parallel to the right to built-up space and must be protected. Researchers have defined urban voids differently, varying with their context-specific studies. This research attempts to chronicle the state of knowledge available to the extent of urban voids. The study will present an overview of international and national literature, theories, and practical examples from different cities to illustrate the role of unused urban voids as a potential resource for development. This research explores the transformative potential of urban voids and discuss the successful strategies from the past for reviving these unused spaces. Urban voids break the city’s urban fabric as no activity takes place in that void. Therefore, these spaces hold an immense possibility of being converted into functionalized areas. The study highlights the importance of urban voids in transforming urban environments into more harmonious and friendly places. The research findings offer significant perspectives for scholars, policymakers, and urban planners looking to develop effective strategies for creating more resilient and liveable cities.