IN-PERSON Barcelona Livable Cities. Section A

Abstract

In the rapidly urbanising regions of the Global South, urban open spaces are vital for promoting environmental sustainability, social cohesion, and public well-being. However, in countries like India, traditional approaches to classifying and managing open spaces – based on the size and population served – often fail to address the diverse needs and aspirations of local communities. These rigid frameworks overlook key aspects of accessibility, such as safety, ease of access, and perceptions, resulting in underutilised or overcrowded spaces. This disconnection highlights the need to redefine public spaces through a process that actively involves residents in decision-making. This study proposes a reimagined hierarchical classification of urban open spaces rooted in accessibility, designed to foster community participation. By incorporating individual perceptions, sociocultural factors, and behavioural dynamics, the framework addresses barriers to access while prioritising the equitable distribution of open spaces across urban areas. Participatory planning processes, including resident consultations and surveys, play pivotal roles in identifying disparities and co-creating solutions. The classification system also enables planners to map accessibility gaps, ensuring resource allocation targets underserved regions and aligns with community needs. In the Indian context, where sociocultural diversity and limited resources pose unique challenges, redefining public spaces through accessibility-based classifications can decrease disparities, enhance inclusivity, and foster equitable access. By involving residents in the decision-making process, this approach ensures that urban open spaces are not only more accessible but also better distributed, fostering shared ownership and responsibility. Ultimately, public spaces are transformed into dynamic, equitable, and sustainable assets for urban life.