This study examines the spatial and design barriers that impede active transportation (AT) in the historic Juanda area of Central Jakarta, a context characterised by rich heritage, informal street life and multimodal transit integration. Employing a qualitative methodology encompassing field observation, spatial mapping and stakeholder interviews, the study identifies key challenges including inactive ground floor frontages, fragmented pedestrian infrastructure and the exclusion of informal economies. Drawing on human-scale urbanism and heritage-sensitive mobility frameworks, the paper formulates adaptive strategies that embrace, rather than displace, local sociocultural dynamics. The findings emphasise contextually embedded solutions that integrate informal trade, cultural practices and micro-mobility within walkable, living heritage corridors. Recommendations target urban planners, heritage conservationists and public space managers, highlighting pathways for regenerating urban environments that are sustainable, inclusive and responsive to the realities of Southeast Asian cities undergoing rapid modernisation. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/. © Henry Stewart Publications