16. Is public space well designed and does it have suitable management arrangements in place?
PPG 17 (planning for open space): ‘New open spaces should improve the quality of the public realm through good design.’
The space around buildings is as important as the buildings themselves. Any development should be able to provide some public open space, whether it is for children’s play and adventure, or for reflection and learning. If this is well designed it will result in a pleasurable place that will be popular and well used. This brings with it economic, social, environmental and cultural benefits.
Good public space is usually planned for a particular use. Too often, public space is the area left once buildings have been planned. This can lead to undefined areas with no specific use.
Watch our video explanation
The 20 Criteria
Environment & community
Character
Streets, parking & pedestrianisation
Design & construction
| Does the development provide (or is it close to) community facilities, such as a school, parks, play areas, shops, pubs or cafes? |
Further reading
- Start with the park (CABE Space, 2005)
- Green Flag awards
