The Nature and Use of Public Open Space in the City of Tshwane
The nature and use of public open space in the City of Tshwane Prof Karina Landman Public space is Public open spaces also public realm with public these spaces through provide opportunities for space designed as civic art. participant observation and important in cities. It recreation and relaxation However, many questions interviews, and identified (Gehl, 2011) and contribute remain about public space the perceptions of users is the common ground to the greening of cities. in the city, with people towards spaces through This can enhance the often claiming that it is interviews. where people interact quality of life of people and unsafe or dirty. In addition, formally or informally provide opportunities for the Tshwane Open Space This article only focuses more sustainable living. Framework recognises on nine of these spaces, to bind the community Given this, public spaces challenges related to safety including three inner city should be accessible to all, and maintenance in many squares (Church Square, (Carr, Francis, Rivlin with physical and visual parks. It therefore raises Lilian Ngoyi Square and access from buildings and questions about the nature Sammy Marks Square), and Stone, 1992). It is streets (Tibbalds, 2001). In and use of open spaces in three inner city parks (the essence, a public space can the city. park in front of the Union also a place where one be summarised as “… space Building, Burgers Park and that allows all the people The Department of Town Venning Park) and three can meet strangers to have access to it and and Regional Planning at suburban parks (Magnolia and engage with the activities within it, the University of Pretoria Dell, Paul Cilliers Park and which is controlled by a embarked on a multi-year Waterkloof Glen Park).
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