Tuesday, 16 April 2013

Public Space is Our Space: Why not use it?

Empty seating in Woodford Square

As you can tell by my last couple of posts, I'm all about public space. Along this blog journey I've definitely learnt alot, not just about urban geography but about myself and country. One of my last posts was titled "Perceptions about Public Space" and this post is a sort of follow up. I spoke about how I perceived urban public spaces as places for old people and the homeless, only to be utilized as a landmark or pass through along my way to elsewhere. Obviously after reading numerous articles and research pieces praising such public spaces, it was only fitting that I look for new ways to appreciate and employ it.
The above photo shows an empty table with ample seating in Woodford Square, Port of Spain, practically crying out to be used. Changing the perception of public places to one that is more inviting and friendly begins with us, the public. This is our space, why not reclaim it. The photographed table and chair can be used for a meeting place for lunch among work colleagues as opposed to crowding for seating at the various food malls in downtown POS, for a meet up among school friends in the afternoon as opposed to being mainly used by senior citizens alone.
Ofcourse it would be foolhardy to ignore the reasons as to why persons do not utilize such spaces, but again it is our responsibility to get out there and try to change that. Perhaps by ensuring that these areas get proper upkeep and are not mere resting places for the homeless.
In order to make public space more viable, according to the American Planning Association they must meet the needs of the people. To make public space attractive a shortlist of criteria are given.Characteristics of a Great Public Space include:
  1. Promotes human contact and social activities.
  2. Is safe, welcoming, and accommodating for all users.
  3. Has design and architectural features that are visually interesting.
  4. Promotes community involvement.
  5. Reflects the local culture or history.
  6. Relates well to bordering uses.
  7. Is well maintained.
  8. Has a unique or special character.
It would definitely be interesting to see if our own local planners can include these traits into the creation of public space.
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3 comments:

  1. lyss17 April 2013 at 18:04

    I really wondered why you don't see much school children liming or utilizing these areas. It's probably because it has this attach stigma that its only for old people and vagrants, since they use there most often. Its actually a really nice place to lime, yet you see children liming outside malls and on Fredrick st.

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    Replies
    1. Unknown17 April 2013 at 18:12

      so true. there is so much space to sit and relax, yet people continue to crowd up the pavements

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  2. Geography UWI-STA2 May 2013 at 13:51

    Great. Can you provide us with some links to our own public spaces docs or the APA's?

    Using the planning guidelines for public spaces, how well do our here match up? How would you grade them as "successful" public spaces?

    Any media on public spaces you can refer to?

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