successful spaces: developing a public realm that supports a sociable and sustainable urban environment
The key role that effective public spaces play in the delivery of thriving and sustainable urban environments is now widely recognised by public agencies, private developers, planners, place making and management professionals and politicians.
However, a great deal of public space that exists in our towns and cities, and some that is currently being designed, is uninspiring and does not tackle current or future urban challenges.
Thankfully, there are great examples of how the public realm can be designed and managed to help create thriving urban areas and in turn more socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities.
It is essential that lessons are learned, issues recognised and the value of investing in a successful public realm communicated effectively amongst all the players.
Videos and multimedia from the 13th Quality Streetscapes Conference are available to view below
Creating effective public spaces
Henry Shaftoe, Senior Lecturer in Planning and Architecture, Cities Research Centre, University of the West of England & author of the new book Convivial urban spaces: creating effective public places
Which places work and why?
Sarah Gaventa, Director, CABE Space & author of New public spaces
Alternative uses for spaces and streets: changing functions and appearance
Councillor Daniel Moylan, Deputy Leader, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
Integration of traffic management requirements into well designed streets: New guidance from the Department for Transport
John Emslie, Projects Director, MVA Consultancy
Long-term management of public places: keeping a place functioning over time
Cathy Parker, Development Director, institute of Place Management
Measurement and valuation of street quality: A new study
Stuart Reid, Director, sustainable transport and communities, MVA consultancy, and Andrew Smith, London Analytics
What makes a great place? O’Connell Street, Dublin
Dick Gleeson, Chief City Planner, Dublin City Council
What makes a great place? Duke of York Square, London
Paul Davis, Chairman, Paul Davis and Partners
What makes a great place? Princesshay, Exeter
John Rigby, Director of Economy & Development, Exeter City Council
