Article révisé par les pairs
Résumé : The privatisation of public space is an important part of the analysis of contemporary urban spaces. The apparent spatial progression of privatisation is being emphasised by more and more sources, along with the many forms it can take. Given the scant level of interest shown so far in defining either privatisation or the various ongoing processes, a study such as this seems pertinent. The article is split into three sections. An initial look at the concept of public space leads to the identification of three areas which are relevant to the study of privatisation processes: property, access to and regulation of space. The article then lists three themes underlying the different forms of privatisation that shape discussion on the subject: the longing for security, the desire to take part in a community, and the improvement of profit. Recognising these factors allows us to formulate a typology of the various forms the privatisation of public space can take, illustrated with concrete examples.