Kreja, K. & B. Edwards, 2004, Tensions between privately owned retail-related plazas and the public realm: a case study of social inclusion in Princes Mall, Edinburgh, in: OPENspace, ‘Open space, people space’, OPENspace, Edinburgh
- Author : Kreja, K. & B. Edwards
- Year : 2004
- Published in Book : Open space, people space
- Abstract in English : The tourism industry has become one of the leading forces of change in the redevelopment of many European cities. It has been common practice for the maintenance and even ownership of public open space in historic locations to be the responsibility of retail developers. Although numerous tools have been established to control the design of development located in the tourist areas, good urban design does not necessarily lead to inclusive spaces. This paper focuses on a case study of the roof terraces (or plaza) of Princes Mall in Edinburgh. Through the analysis of its current layout, use and management, possible ways of enhancing the interface between public-private interests are highlighted. A re-balancing of space needs for tourists, local users and retailers at and around the plaza has been identified as a valid solution to improve the level of provision and quality of the open space experience. It is clear that the balance between the public and private realms has entered a new phase in which the growth of private management of formerly public areas is now having a greater influence on the design of historic cities than in the past. Since the phenomenon is identified as a crucial one for the future development of public space in heritage-based cities, the author signposts the related issues of publicness and inclusiveness in the urban experience.
- Comments/Notes : KEYWORDS: open space, tourist place, shopping centre, private ownership and public use. [paper 6 p.]