Public spaces are an integral part of our urban landscape. They provide a sense of community, contribute to our well-being, and play a crucial role in making our cities more livable. In recognition of their importance, the New South Wales Government  has developed the NSW Public Spaces Charter. The charter aims to provide a framework for the creation and management of public spaces that are inclusive, safe, and accessible to all.

The NSW Public Spaces Charter was developed through a collaborative effort between the government, public space experts, and community members. It is a comprehensive document that sets out a vision for public spaces in NSW and outlines a set of principles and guidelines for their creation and management.

At the heart of the charter is the principle of inclusivity. The document recognises that public spaces should be welcoming to all members of the community, regardless of their background or abilities. It encourages the creation of public spaces that are accessible and safe for everyone, including children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

The charter also emphasises the importance of community engagement in the creation and management of public spaces. It recognizes that local communities have a unique understanding of their needs and aspirations and should be actively involved in the design, development, and maintenance of public spaces in their neighbourhoods.

Another key principle of the charter is sustainability. The document recognizes that public spaces play an important role in promoting sustainable development and encourages the creation of spaces that are environmentally responsible and promote active and healthy lifestyles.

The NSW Public Spaces Charter provides a useful guide for local councils, developers, and other stakeholders involved in the creation and management of public spaces. It provides a framework for the development of public spaces that are inclusive, safe, and sustainable, and that contribute to the well-being of local communities.

The NSW Public Spaces Charter outlines ten principles that provide guidance for the creation and management of public spaces. Here's a breakdown of each principle:

Open & Welcoming: Public spaces should be inclusive and accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, age, ability, or other factors.

Community Focused: Public spaces should bring people together, and be developed and managed in consultation with local communities, recognizing their unique needs and aspirations.

Cultural & Creativity: Public spaces should celebrate and reflect the cultural identity of local communities, providing a sense of place and promoting cultural understanding and diversity.

Local Character & Identity: Public spaces must reflect who we are and our diverse stories and histories.

Green & Resilient: Public spaces should be environmentally sustainable and designed to enhance biodiversity and climate resilience.

Healthy and Active: Public spaces allow everyone to participate in active healthy lifestyles, such as through the provision of green spaces, bike paths, and walking tracks.

Local Business & Economies: Public space supports a dynamic economic life and vibrant town centres.

Safe & Secure: Public spaces should be designed and managed with safety in mind, including the safety of all users, such as pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists, regardless of the time of day.

Designed for Place: Public spaces should be adaptable and able to respond to changing community needs and demands, such as through the provision of flexible spaces that can be used for multiple purposes.

Well Managed: Public spaces should be developed and managed with a focus on functionality, ensuring the ease of ongoing care, that resources are used efficiently and effectively to deliver the best outcomes for local communities.

By following these ten principles, the NSW Public Spaces Charter aims to promote the creation of public spaces that are inclusive, safe, sustainable, and enhance the liveability of our urban areas.

As a landscape architecture firm, Nangle Landscape Architecture understands the importance of public spaces and their impact on our urban environment. That's why we have become a signatory for the NSW Public Spaces Charter, a document that sets out a vision and guidelines for the creation and management of public spaces that are inclusive, safe, and sustainable.

Becoming a signatory for this charter demonstrates our team's commitment to creating public spaces that meet the needs and aspirations of local communities. It shows that we recognize the importance of community engagement in the design, development, and management of public spaces, and that we value the principles of inclusivity, safety, sustainability, and liveability.

By becoming a signatory for the NSW Public Spaces Charter, Nangle Landscape Architecture is making a public commitment to upholding these principles and working towards the creation of public spaces that enhance our urban environment and contribute to the well-being of local communities. We are keen to continue to support the NSW Public Spaces Team, being involved in workshops and providing expertise in public domain design.

As a landscape architecture firm, we play a crucial role in the creation and management of public spaces. Our expertise in design, planning, and management can help ensure that public spaces are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible.

By adhering to the principles outlined in the NSW Public Spaces Charter, Nangle Landscape Architecture can create public spaces that are truly reflective of local communities' needs and aspirations, promoting inclusivity and accessibility for all members of the community.

To learn more about the exciting work around the NSW Public Spaces Charter, click here. All images are the property of NSW Government.