Urban spaces are continuously evolving through complex social, economic,ÌýpoliticalÌýand environmental forces. However, in responding to these changes, the perspectives of many local communities are often overlooked. Research on inclusive urban planning emphasises the need to recognise the lived experiences of diverse groups such as mothers, young people and teenage girls when shaping urban environments.Ìý
This research highlights how motherhood reshapes everyday mobility and engagement with the city. The study of first-time mothers with premature babies in inner London shows how navigating urban environments while caring for vulnerable infants involves emotional and sensory challenges, including concerns about overcrowded public spaces, accessibility for prams, and exposure to infection. These experiences influence how mothers move through the city and can shape their sense of belonging or exclusion in public spaces.Ìý
Similarly, research on youth participation in urban planning shows that young people, particularly teenagers, areÌýfrequentlyÌýexcluded from decision-making processes despite having strong views about how cities should function. Interviews with teenagers across several European cities revealed that young people prioritise community, inclusion, environmentalÌýsustainabilityÌýand accessible public spaces, highlighting the importance of involving them directly in shaping future urban visions.ÌýTogether, these perspectivesÌýdemonstrateÌýthat creating inclusive and democratic cities requires empowering diverse groups (including mothers, youngÌýpeopleÌýand teenage girls) toÌýparticipateÌýin urban placemaking and decision-making.ÌýÌý
If you wish to know more about the project or discuss about potential collaboration, please contactÌýProf. SilviaÌýGullinoÌýSilvia.Gullino@bcu.ac.uk.Ìý
Publications and media:
Gullino, S., 2026. Reimagining walkable cities: exploring the experience of mothers of premature babies. Town Planning Review, pp.1-21.ÌýÌýÌý
Gullino, S. and Rubin, M., 2026. Urban assemblages, motherhood and mobility in Johannesburg and London. Third World Quarterly, pp.1-20.ÌýÌýÌý
Shtebunaev, S.,ÌýGullino, S. and Larkham, P.J. 2023.ÌýPlanning the smart city with young people: Teenagers’ perceptions,ÌývaluesÌýand visions of smartness. Urban Planning, 8(2).ÌýÌýÌý
Gullino, S., Kaiser, A., Khan, H., Phillips, A., Elwin, A. and Edwards, A.D., 2017. New mothers’ experiences of the urban environment with their preterm infants involve complex social,ÌýemotionalÌýand psychological processes. ActaÌýPaediatrica, 106(3), pp.405-410.Ìý