Public spaces are vital for the dynamic social functions of public life of diverse user groups. They provide areas for social encounter, recreation (including work, play and study), shelter needs and other forms of community engagement. Officially, they are defined as “areas that are publicly owned, intended for public use, accessible and enjoyable by all without charge and not driven by profit motives”. However, public spaces are under threat. Rapid urbanization has exacerbated conflicts over land use meaning cities are failing to allocate enough land for public space, instead prioritizing other forms of urban development. Today, public spaces tend to be a product of complex interactions amongst multiple stakeholders from across the public and private sectors. Outdated and ambiguous legal frameworks, fragmented governance structures and inadequate financial models hinder the effective development, management and use of public spaces.
The New Urban Agenda complements the SDGs, providing an action-oriented guideline which calls specifically for an increase in public spaces, champions the role of sustainable urban design and promotes the role of governments at all levels to lead the development and implementation of effective urban rules and regulations, planning and municipal finance. As cities seek to improve environmental sustainability and enhance economic prosperity, it is crucial that the governance of public space facilitates community infrastructure and supports placemaking for all.
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