Streets are closed and paradises open: the closed allotments and the unequal reproduction of space in city of Sobral/CE

Abstract

The reproduction of urban space in Sobral (CE) is examined in light of the appearance of closed allotments, inserted in the Renato Parente neighborhood. This housing model arrives in this location as a new modality of urbana realization, as it leads to socio-spatial hierarchization and the incorporation of rural lands to produce an increase in income, profits and interest. This residential typology clearly demonstrates how the middle stratum seeks to live in peripheral areas of the City, maintaining spatial and social distance from others. With this intention, the research proceeds with a qualitative approach, relying on relevant bibliographical demands, field visits and semi-structured interviews with developers, brokers, residents and employees of the Sobral City Hall. Therefore, the arrival of the residential typology represents the denial of the City and the place, as it deepens socio-spatial segregation. With the real state expansion in Sobral, it has produced an unequal space, where a huge contradiction is taking place on the outskirts, the middle class intends to distance itself more and more from this poor city contour.