8 UCLG PUBLIC SPACE POLICY FRAMEWORK
WHAT IS A PUBLIC SPACE POLICY FRAMEWORK? THE INTENTION OF THIS FRAMEWORK is to influence cities to recognize the importance of localized citywide public space policy, to deepen the understanding of local governments’ role and responsibilities on public space development, and to maximize public space dividends at a city level. A public space policy framework provides a high-level strategy for local governments to localize key targets listed in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as opposed to detailed prescriptive policy interventions.
The aim of this framework is to assist municipalities to develop new public space policies and implementation strategies. This framework is a guiding strategy for local governments in which public space is a central axis. In such frameworks, built on evidences and practices, public space is a catalyst for cities’ development to enhance citizens’ quality of life by ensuring the values of equity, public participation, accessibility, transparency, efficiency, fairness, and accountability. These elements are central to develop public space implementation strategies for cities. Local governments should start implementing this framework by recognizing their challenges, specific to their own realities. Therefore, the government can decide to develop new public space policies and implementation strategies, to improve or shift existing policies and public spaces. It is very important to check the sustainability of the policy by monitoring regularly the social, economic and environmental benefits. The higher the dividend in a certain area, the better the policies met the challenges and the demands.
conceptual framework for maximizing the public space dividend UCLG public space policy framework focal areas
Social benefits
Social inclusion Preservation of culture Social cohesion Improved wellness Improved citizen equity etc.
Economic benefits
Development promotion Urban renewal Improved revenue Improved infrastructure Fiscal benefits etc.
Develop localized policies
City specific public space policy
Implement
Implemented public space
(regulate, build, maintain)
Research and analyse
Existing public space challenges
Environmental benefits
Mitigate climate change Help to build resilience Improve urban environment Contribute to the protection of the biodiversity Improve the access to natural resources etc.
The more benefits that is realized in each sector the greater the public space dividend is for the city