Evaluating NSW Public Spaces

Harden, and residents across the Hilltops, are encouraged to participate in the initiative launched by the NSW Government, to evaluate public spaces.

The Evaluation Tool for Public Space and Public Life and a Great Public Spaces Guide - two new free resources will help improve public spaces for every community across NSW.

The four-page Evaluation Tool allows anyone to evaluate the quality of their public space and document changes over time. It will help government, councils, industry and communities identify opportunities to deliver better and activated public space.

The Great Public Spaces Guide introduces everyone to the meaning of place and the elements that create a great public facility, open space or street.

“Local communities know exactly what they want and need from public spaces such as parks, libraries, sporting fields and streetscapes,” explains Alex O’Mara, Group Deputy Secretary at the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment

The Evaluation Tool gives everyone a way to identify and document those desires and have a shared conversation on potential improvements,” Ms O’Mara said. “The Great Public Spaces Guide will provide people with greater insight and inspiration on what can be achieved in their public spaces.

“A better understanding of public space will lead to healthier, happier public spaces that are full of life.” Ms O’Mara said.

The Evaluation Tool is available in digital and printed form. It allows assessment of public space by four themes:

• Am I able to get there?
• Am I able to play and participate?
• Am I able to stay?
• Am I able to connect?

“These two new resources will support the development of high-quality public spaces throughout NSW and they can be used by anyone who wants to better understand their public spaces, no matter your technical expertise or background,” Ms O’Mara said.

The Evaluation Tool for Public Space and Public Life and the Great Public Spaces Guide are components of the year-long Festival of Place.

The Great Public Spaces Guide and Evaluation Tool are available at: https://www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/premiers-priorities/great-public-spaces/festival-of-place/great-public-spaces-toolkit

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• Community