Background
Since Gellerup and Toveshøj were built in late 1960s, they have developed into a socially disadvantaged residential area.
Massive community and social initiatives have been launched in the area, but they have failed to alter the trend.
However, experience from abroad has shown that it is possible to turn the tide in a disadvantaged area by changing the physical environment.
Like similar housing estates in Denmark and abroad, Gellerup and Toveshøj are turned in on themselves. There are no through roads, and the area basically contains nothing but public housing. Danish experts agree that the physical causes of ghettoisation can be eliminated or significantly reduced.
Radical changes to the physical environment are therefore needed to create an open, attractive neighbourhood with businesses, educational institutions, owner-occupied and rental properties, attractive outdoor areas and a well-organised network of safe roads and pathways.