ZAROSINSKI Adriano_Suburban Civility by RMIT Landscape Architecture

SUBURBAN CIVILITY. Policy as a design technique for enabling social cohesion within the context of suburban public open space.

ADRIANO ZAROSINSKI ——— s3813507

DESIGN RESEARCH COMPENDIUM SUBURBAN CIVILITY

P o l i c y a s a D e s i g n Te c h n i q u e f o r E n a b l i n g S o c i a l Cohesion within the Context of Suburban Public Open Space

SUBMITTED BY Adriano Mauro Zarosinski s3813507

RMIT UNIVERSITY School of Architecture & Urban Design

MASTER OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE ARCH1485 Landscape Architecture Masters Design Research Project B

TUTORS J e n Ly n c h Adam Gardner

C O U R S E C O O R D I N AT O R S J e n Ly n c h Dr Alice Lewis

Semester 01, 2021

contents

PAG E

Abstract

SECTION 01 08 10

Introduction Project Ambition Client/Stakeholders UN Sustainable Development Goals

Theoretical Framework

SECTION 02 18 20 22 24 28

Project Location Municipal Profile Grasslands Ward Strategic Landscape Defining the Project Public Open Space Civility Social Cohesion Democracy “In-between” Spaces Public Realm

Policy & Design

SECTION 03 38 40 44

Ty p e / Ty p o l o g y Existing Condition Appropriation in Action

Categorising Public Open Space Current Categories of POS

48 54

P ro p o s e d Ty p o l o g i e s N i n e Ty p o l o g i e s O f “ I n - b e t w e e n”

62 64 70 76

S t u d y Ty p o l o g i e s Site 01 - Gillespie Easement S i te 0 2 - S te p h e n C a l l e j a / M a i n Road We st Re s e r ve Site 03 - Ibis Grove Reserve

SECTION 04

SECTION 05 84 86

Opportunities In Existing Policy Design Iteration

106 108

Ty p o l o g y 3 Ty p o l o g y 5 Ty p o l o g y 2

Fro m D e s i g n t o Po l i c y. . . t o D e s i g n Design & Policy Cycle

SECTION 06 116 119

Reflection Conclusion

121

Appendices Interviews Precedent Design Projects D e s i g n Te s t i n g

138 140

Acknowledgments References

abstract

Access to quality public open space (POS) is integral to productive social cohesion. Landscape architecture regularly engages with policy in its interpretation and implementation throughout the design process. The discipline, however, has limited engagement in the actual design of policy and, when it does, it is generally within a restricted, advisory capacity. In my own experience as a practicing town planner, this dissentious parallel between policy and design has been a recurring observation. The landscape architect offers profound credibility in the design of POS policy. This design research project is situated at the intersection of landscape architectural and urbanist discourses, emphasising the privilege which experts in the design of the urban can offer in contemporary policy design. Using the municipality of Brimbank as a case study, a set of problematic POS typologies are identified and interrogated, to propose and test a series of policy interventions intended to improve social cohesion. Through the presentation of a multi-scalar framework document, the project intends to establish an adaptable set of guidelines for use by government agencies and industry bodies in policy development. The project demonstrates that a synergy exists between landscape architecture and policymaking which should be harnessed in revitalising suburban “in-between” POS.

SUBURBAN CIVILITY

How can policy be used as a tool for landscape architecture in the design of suburban public open space?

SUBURBAN CIVILITY

What insight and privilege can the landscape architect offer in the design of policy and policy as a design technique within the context of suburban “in-between” public open spaces?

introduction

The importance of quality public space, and what it means, is a topic of much discourse and research. The landscape architect often engages with policy in the capacity of responding to set objectives, strategies and design guidelines that are generated by policymakers. Policy has an immense power in shaping the built environment and, in its implementation, has a direct impact on the quality of the public realm. With expertise in design thinking and the application of policy objectives, there is an opportunity for the landscape architect to intervene at the policymaking stage to accommodate better design outcomes. This research project investigates, explores and interrogates the capacity for the landscape architect to use policy as a design tool in the context of suburban public open space. Through the lenses of civility and democracy, the research critiques the current suburban public open space policy landscape to identify gaps in the delivery of quality public space. Drawing on research and practice across the disciplines of landscape architecture, planning, urban studies, politics, sociology and philosophy, the project develops, through the perspective of the landscape architect, a critique on existing public open space strategic and policy documents to propose a series of interventions that intend to have a direct impact on built form outcomes. Located in the north-west of metropolitan Melbourne, Brimbank City Council is one of Victoria’s most culturally diverse municipalities. However, the local government area is also characterised by significant disadvantage. The public realm in this instance plays an especially important role in improving quality of life and the policy intervention takes place within a complex social sphere. Looking at public space voids within the municipality, the design research establishes a typology of “in-between” spaces to propose a series of policy interventions that would have a direct impact on the built form outcomes of the suburban landscape. The intention of the policy intervention is to improve these disinvested areas of “public” space to empower citizenship and, in turn, foster a strengthened sense of belonging.

SUBURBAN CIVILITY

project ambition LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT AS ADVISOR

CLIENTELE

Victorian Local Councils

The project is driven by the desire to improve the public realm in the context of suburban publicCopen L I E Nspace. T Using the City of Brimbank as a case study, the project intends to explore the ability for landscape architecture to guide policy which enables inclusive and active public spaces. While over the past decade, the City of Brimbank has implemented a number of strategies and plans relating to public space and community facilities, the municipality faces a number of challenges. Indeed, it is a municipality that is marked by significant disadvantage, being the second most socio-economically disadvantaged municipality Brimbank City in Metropolitan Melbourne (Brimbank City Council 2015). While publicCouncil space is important for physical activity and mental health, I argue that within public space also lies an opportunity for increased civic engagement and, consequently, active participation in civic life. Through this design research project, I hope to contribute a mechanism for improving existing open space and the “inbetween” spaces of the suburban fabric capable of empowering citizenship. Improved access, inclusivity and equity are themes which form the foundations for the research project.

ND R HI NOVLODLE VE I N D II C A ITCIAVTEI VCE LSITEANKTE/HSOTLADKE E R MTEINMTE L I N E I N V O LV E M E N T

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

P R O J E C T S TA G E

INCEPTION

BRIMBANK CITY COUNCIL VICTORIAN PLANNING AUTHORITY D E LW P PA R KS V I C T O R I A M E L B O U R N E WAT E R C I T Y W E S T WAT E R PORT PHILLIP & WESTERNPORT CMA GREENING THE WEST LEADWEST B R I M B A N K YO U T H S E R V I C E S BRIMBUG OTHER COMMUNITY GROUPS COPPERFIELD COLLEGE K I N G S PA R K P R I M A R Y S C H O O L K I N G S PA R K R E S I D E N T S RESIDENTS OF ADJACENT S UBURB S

S I T E R E V I E W & A N A LY S I S

ENGAGEMENT 1

DR AF T P OLICY

C O N S U LT A T I O N

ENGAG

S TA K E H O L D E R S STATE-W ID E P O L ICY A ND STRATEGY

C L I E N T/ S TA K E H O L D E R S

For my research, the City of Brimbank is the client, with the Landscape Architect as advisor. In the case of public open space across Brimbank, a sample REGIO NA L P O L ICY & of stakeholders are provided in the below diagram. Local stakeholders would vary Port Phillip & Westernport STRATEGY Catchment Management site to site. As one moves up the stakeholder chart to municipal, regional and state Authority levels, agency/authority transferability increases. Said another way, in different sites ‘local stakeholders’ would vary while ‘state stakeholders’ would not.

region

City West Water

Regional Community Groups

S TA K E H O L D E R S

Victorian Planning Authority

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

E NVIRO NME NT & S U STA INA BIL IT Y

municipal

Brimbank Youth Services

Parks Victoria

state

STATE-WIDE P OLICY AN D STRATEGY

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT AS ADVISOR

BrimBUG Bicycle Group

CLIENTELE

AS S E T MA NAGE ME NT

CLIENT

Melbourne Water

City West Water

Regional Community Groups

BU ILT EN VIRON MEN T

REG ION AL P OLICY & STRATEGY

Port Phillip & Westernport Catchment Management Authority

AS S ET MAN AG EMEN T

region

Melbourne Water

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

L E A D E RS HIP

Brimbank City Council

Victorian Local Councils

Brimbank Youth Services

BrimBUG Bicycle Group

municipal

EN VIRON MEN T & S U STAIN ABILIT Y

LE ADERS H IP

C O MMUNIT Y E NGAGE ME NT & PA RTNE RS HIP

local

COMMU N IT Y EN G AG EMEN T & PARTN ERS H IP

local

U S ER G ROU P

I N D I C AT I V E S TA K E H O L D E R I N V O LV E M E N T I N V O LV E M E N T

USER GRO UP

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

P R O J E C T S TA G E

INCEPTION

S I T E R E V I E W & A N A LY S I S

ENGAGEMENT 1

DR AF T P OLICY

C O N S U LT A T I O N

ENGAGEMENT 2

P OLICY REVIEW

DESIGN DRAFT

SITE TEST

ENGAGEMENT 3

I M P L E M E N TAT I O N LO C A L I T Y/ /C O N N E CT I O N T O S I T E

SITE TEST

ENGAGEMENT 3

I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

DESIGN DRAFT

P OLICY REVIEW

SUBURBAN CIVILITY

K I N G S PA R K R E S I D E N T S

RESIDENTS OF ADJACENT S UBURB S

LO C A L I T Y/ /C O N N E CT I O N T O S I T E

GEMENT 2

While the design research is not intended to be site specific, the project is situated in the City of Brimbank. Broadly, the intention of BUILT the research is to help E NVIRO NME NT guide the conversation within local government toward applying design thinking in the preparation and implementation of policy. As such, the intended clientele are municipal level governments.

Parks Victoria

state

Victorian Planning Authority

U N S U S TA I N A B L E D E V E LO P M E N T G OA LS GOAL 10 REDUCED INEQUALITIES

Target 10.2 By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.

GOAL 11 S U S TA I N A B L E C I T I E S A N D COMMUNITIES

Target 11.7 By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible, green and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons and persons with disability.

GOAL 16 PEACE, JUSTICE AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS

Target 16.7 Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision making at all levels.

(United Nations 2020)

These three UN Sustainable Development Targets are relevant to the design research project in their emphasis on participation, democracy, equity and inclusiveness. Target 10.2 directs development to promote and empower social, economic and political inclusion for all which is a guiding principal that I would like to develop throughout my project (United Nations 2020). In particular, in empowering citizenship within suburban public open space, it is vital that all members of the local community are engaged with and can access the space. Similarly, Target 11.7 highlights the importance of public spaces being inclusive and universally accessible (United Nations 2020). Of relevance to the design research project, is the notion that there is a particular emphasis on minority groups and those who are usually excluded from public space.

SUBURBAN CIVILITY

Finally, Target 16.7 requires that decision making at all levels is responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative (United Nations 2020). What this means for my design research project is that, in establishing a policy framework for the landscape architect, consideration must be given to facilitating inclusive and participatory decision making that responds to the interests of the local community and represents their ideas and desires.

theoretical framework

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S SE DESIGNING DISO C APa b lo S e n dra & R i c h a rd S

In De s ig ning Dis ord e r, the id e a s fir st d is c us s e d 5 0 ye S e nnett’s “ T he U s e s of Dis S e nd ra is a n a rc hite c t a nd p ote ntia l d e s ig n inte r ve ntio a nd d e s ig ning for d is ord e r. notions of the d e m oc ratic c d is c us s how to c re ate p ub l e nc oura g e a nd fa c ilitate in p a r tic ip ation. “ De m oc ratic c re ating a for um for the s e (p. 3 5 ). Nota b ly, the a uthor ta nc e of c ons id e r ing p la c e c onsta ntly evolv ing a nd re s ty re s p ons e /c ha ng ing ne e d

T H E PRODUCT ION OF SPACE

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KEY

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C o-d es ig n L a b & O t hers // 2 018 // Aotea roa , N ew Zea l a nd Th i s bo o klet i s t h e o u t pu t fro m a t wo - day sympo si u m h eld i n Au ckla n d, N ew Zea la n d, by D r Peny Ha ge, Rebeka h Fo rma n a n d Lee Rya n . Th e sympo si u m lo o ked at s even c a s e st u di es i n Aotea ro a to u n derst a n d a n d di s cu ss t h e po li cy i mpa ct s of a co lla bo rat i ve desi gn pro cess. Th e i ntent i o n of t h e res ea rch i nten ded to ex plo re t h e ro le of desi gn i n bri n gi n g peo ple to get h er, en a bli n g t h o s e affected by po li cy to en ga ge i n i t s develo pment a n d to st ren gt h en feedba ck lo o ps.

THE EMP T Y

Te re s a H os k y n s H os k y ns exa m ine p a r tic ip ator y d e m link ing he r re s e a p hilos op hy a nd s p rov id e s a c om p the or ie s a nd the s p a c e a s we ll a s refe re nc ing the w Lefe bvre.

C I

T I

P OLICY BY DESIGN

C h r i st i a n B a s on // 2 Dis c us s e s the p ra c ti in the d eve lop m e nt o b e a re s ourc e for p ol a nd us e d e s ig n a s a t De s c r ib e s m ethod s a c olla b oration, p a r tic i throug h a d e s ig n le ns

T // C AS E

R i c h a rd B oyd // 2 006 B oyd p rovoke s a n e nq uir y into w hat c a n b e to e nc oura g e the p ra c tic e of c iv ility in c on p ora r y ur b a n life. T his a r tic le is p e r tine nt i d e s ig n re s e a rc h p roje c t a s it f ra m e s the no of c iv ility a s a v ita l a s p e c t of c onte m p ora r y ur b a n life. Wr itte n f rom the p e r s p e c tive of d is c ip line of G ove r na nc e a nd p olitic a l the o the a r tic le p rov id e s a n outline of c iv ility w i the ur b a n c ontext a nd its c om p lex histor y exc lus ion a nd us e for s oc ia l c ontrol.

ECE D

DEN

‘ THE VALUE OF CIVILIT Y?’

ECED // PR U DY

a m e r i c a n poli t i c a l ph s oc i a li st fe m i n i st Young is k now n for he g roup d iffe re nc e s . You new ins ig hts into fe m i m od e s of d e m oc ra c y. on reve a ling a nd b r ing tie s in p olitic s , d e m oc

I ris Ma rion Young // 1990 Th ro u gh t h e len s of po li t i c a l t h eo ry, Yo u n g (19 9 0) i nterro gates t h e t ra di t i o n a lly h o mo gen o u s a ppro a ch to pu bli c po li cy, st ressi n g t h e i mpo rt a n ce of h etero gen ei t y a n d reco gn i t i o n of di fferen ce i n po li cy. “The univer sal citizen is also white and bourgeois. Women have not been the only per sons excluded from participation in the modern civic public ... The respectable man should be straight, dispassionate, rule-bound. The bodily, sexual, uncertain, disorderly aspects of existence in these cultural images were and are identified with women, homosexuals, Blacks, Indians, Jews, and Orientals.” ( Young 1990, pp. 110-111)

IRIS MARION Y

JU ST ICE AND T H E P OLIT ICS OF DIFFERENCE

f re n c h h i stor i a n a n d c u lt u ra l c r i t i m ost we ll k now n for his a na lys e s of e s of eve r yd ay life “In his seminal The Practice of Ever yda C erteau argues that strategies are the the powerful (government), and tactics response of the weak (citizens).” (Lydo 2015, pp. 9-10) “the ‘weak tactics of the strong’ and th tactics of the weak’.” (Jacques 2018)

CA S

s oc d ia w it “Se sec slow esc c ate beg 1974

MICHEL DE CERTE AU

Loc a l Offic e L a nd s c a p e A rc hitec t s // 2 012-2 015 // Mia mi, F L Pri vately ow n ed pu bli c o pen spa ce, repu rpo si n g o ld M i a mi Heat Aren a si te. Tempo ra ry, pro gra mma ble a n d mu lt i - pu rpo s e pu bli c spa ce, desi gn ed fo r fl ex i bi li t y. Perma n ent a men i t i es provi di n g pa ssi ve recreat i o n , desi gn ed fo r fi n a n ci a l a n d i nfra st ru ct u ra l i n depen den ce. Pro j ect led by develo per- a ct i vi st Bra d Kn o efl er. “Knoefler convinced the City of Miami that the project was a good idea and got permission from the landowner to rent the site until the developer chose to move for ward with a plan to build. The challenge for Knoefler was to figure out how to derive enough revenue from the pop -up park to cover the hefty lease he committed to paying” (Lydon & Garcia 2015, p. 144).

frenc h ma rxist t heo rist , ph i los oph e r a n d s oc iol og ist B est kn ow n fo r h i s wo rk o n the p rod uc tion of spa ce, every day li fe a n d the or ie s a round the ri ght to t h e ci t y. “...The Production of Space stands at the pinnacle of contemporar y social and politic al thought. He did not follow sociology’s methodologic al imperative ... Lefebvre had a grand project: to discern the consequences of modernity in its late c apitalist inc arnation for the multiplicity of forms of social life and for (social) being itself.” (Aronowitz 2015, p. 74)

MIAMI GRAND CENT RAL PARK 6

H ENRI LEFEBVRE

On civility, or social cohesion, the project also looks to key concepts and ideas which underpin tactical urbanism – or bottom-up, guerrilla urbanism (Aelbrecht, Stevens & Nisha 2019; Berglund 2019; Littke 2016; Lydon & Garcia 2015; Sennett 2020).

RE F

Drawing on the research and insights of a range of disciplines the project is situated at the intersection of landscape architecture, urbanism, sociology and philosophy, and politics.

The community of practice is interdisciplinary and explores various aspects of public space and citizen participation. In the context of the design research project they offer important insights on what constitutes public open space and opportunities for intervening with, adapting and manipulating policy to create ideal built form outcomes.

The design research draws on landscape architectural precedents which respond to a range of urban conditions and interrogates them through the lens of policy to determine how policy interventions could result in similar built form outcomes. While not all projects have shaped policy directly they have been required to respond to policy and operate under a strategic framework.

Henri Lefebv re // 1991 F i rst pu bli sh ed i n Fren ch i n 1974, Th e pro du c tion of spa ce i s a n i nfl u ent i a l pi ece w h i ch des crib e s t h at t h ro u gh t h e u s e of physi c a l spa ce h u m a ns n ot o n ly i ntera ct i n s o ci a l relat i o n s bu t create s o ci a l spa ce. I n t h e di s co u rs e of la n ds c a pe a nd u rba n i sm, Lefebvre’s (19 9 1) i s a n i mpo rt a nt co n si derat i o n . W i t h i n t h e s co pe of my desi g n res ea rch pro j ect , a n u n derst a n di n g of Lefebv re’s t h eo ri es wo u ld be u s efu l i n fo rmu lat i n g a polic y ba si s w h i ch en a bles t h e creat i o n of s o ci a l s p a c e w i t h i n t h e su bu rba n co ntext . Th at i s, Lefebv re’s (19 9 1) t h eo ri es wo u ld a i d i n st ren gt h en i n g a ppreci at i o n a n d cri t i qu e of s o ci a l a u to n o my a n d ex pressi o n i n pu bli c spa ces.

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G ro und Pl ay // 2 0 09 // Sa n Fra n c i s c o, CA Co mmu n i t y dri ven t ra n sfor m ation of d a ng e rous i nters ect i o n . Pro j ect pa r t of G round P lay (previ o u sly Pavement s to Pa r ks ) a nd S a n Fra n ci s co Pla n n i n g D ep a r tm e nt . Tra nsfor m ative spa ce. I nten ded to i n cre a s e s afety a nd p rov id e a pla ce fo r co mmu n i t y. “Vehicle speeding on Guerrero Street and San Jose Avenue had been a community concern for many year s and resulted in a proposed series of improvements that aimed to increase neighborhood safety for pedestrians and cyclists. To address this issue, the inter section was closed-off and replaced with San Jose Guerrero Plaza . A two-way “cue-street” was also installed to give loc al residents easy access to the Plaza .” (Ground Play n.d.)

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A’B ECK ET T URB AN SQUARE

Le o n va n S c h a i k & N i g e l B e r t ra m // 2 019 I n t h i s b ook , va n S c h a ik & B e r t ra m (2019 ) d e s c r i b e t h e h i stor y of su b u r ba n Au st ra li a , p a r t i c u l a r l y M e l b ou r n e, d e s c ri bi n g bu i ldi n g t y p ol og ie s a n d t h e t h e oret ic a l fra mewo rk w h i ch sh a p e d t h e g row t h of ou r c it i e s. “Ou r wo rk a i ms to u n l oc k t h e d e sig n p ote nt i a ls h i dden i n t h e p hysi c a l st r u c t u re s of su b u r bi a , qu a li t i es bot h h i n d e re d a n d e n a b l e d by t h e u su a l plot su bdi vi si on” ( p. 1 ) .

TH E

Western Aust ra l ia n Dep a r t ment of S p or t a nd Rec reat ion // 2 012 S t rategi c do cu ment t h at est a bli sh es a fra mewo rk fo r a co mmo n t ypo lo gy of pu bli c o pen spa ce a rea s i n Western Au st ra li a . Th e i ntent i o n of t h e do cu ment i s to a do pt a co mmo n termi n o lo gy to en a ble co mpa rat i ve a n a lysi s a n d i nfo rm po li cy a n d u rba n pla n n i n g pra ct i ce.

ENT // C AS

SAN JOSE GUERRERO PARK

CLASSIFICAT ION FRAMEWORK FOR P UB LIC OPEN SPACE

u rb a n i st & p e o p l e watc h e r, k n ow n fo r his i nflu e n c e o n t h e st u d of h u m a n b ehav io ur w i t h i n u rb a n s ett i n g s . N ot a b l e wor ks d is c u ss h is ob s e r vat i o n s of p e op l e i n sp a c e a n d t h e effe c t i ve n ess of pu bli c sp a c e s. G a i n e d u n d e r st a n d i n g of h ow p e o ple u s ed ci t i es by wa l k i n g t h e st re et s, si tt i n g on b en ch es a n d t a l k i n g to p e op l e. “...was an enemy of what he c alled ‘the fortressing of Americ a’—windowless walls, forbidding cement courtyards, bewildering tunnels, relentlessly grim megastructures and spikes that discourage sitter s.”

Fut ure G round C omp et it io n // 2 01 5 // Va n A l en I nst it ute // N ew Orl ea ns Cro ss a gen cy co lla bo rat i o n a cro s s a g e nc ie s , o rga n i zat i o n s, a n d co mmu n i t i es to a d d re s s va c a nt lot s a n d a cco mmo date a da ptive re us e. Pro j ect i nters ect s bet ween eco n om ic , e c olog ic a l a n d s o ci a l pa ra meters to respond to a nd i nfo rm po li cy i n a co nt i n u o u s lo o p. “Team PaD’s proposal demonstrated how collaborations across agencies, organizations, and communities could accelerate the sc alability of vac ant lot reuse initiatives to achieve greater ecologic al, social, and economic impacts in the region” ( Van Alen Institute 2016).

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Peter El l iot A rc hitec t ure & Urba n Des ig n // 2 014 // Mel bo urne, VI C Pro j ect fo r RM I T Un i versi t y, pri vately ow n ed pu bli c spa ce. Tempo ra ry po p- u p pa rk . M u lt i - u s e spa ces fo r spo rt s, recreat i o n a n d spect ato r s eat i n g. “According to the architects, the creative approach to the space was to keep the space deliberately lean, inspired by demountable installations. The choice to use bold colour s was driven by the intent to distinguish between the active sports court areas and the quieter soft zones delineated by a c arpet of artificial grass.” (Iver s 2018, p. 134)

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s // 2 014 e s t h e relat ionshi p bet ween mocracy and pub l i c s pa ce, arc h to the orie s of po l i t i c a l spat ial theory. Th e bo o k re h ensive analysi s of u r ba n pro d uction and o p erat i o n of n ot io n s of part ic i p at i o n, wor k of David Ha r vey a nd Hen r i

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W I L L I AM H W HY TE

G r u en B er li n G ro u p // 2 01 4 // B e rl i n , G e rm a ny T h e p ur p o s e of Te m p e l h ofe r Fe l d wa s to re p u r p o s e th e ex i sti n g Te m p e l h of A i r p or t fo l l owi n g i ts c l o s u re i n 2 0 08 . T h e p rote c t ion of th e s p a c e a n d i ts a p p ro p r iat ion to b e c om e a p u b l i c p a r k wa s stro n gl y b a c ke d a n d a d voc ate d fo r by c i ti ze n s . Th e s p a c e op e rate s t h rou g h t h e p ro gra m m i n g of s p a c e a n d u s e s, w h il e p rovid in g fo r a n d p rote c ti n g h a b i tat s. “In fact, original urban development plans aimed at preser ving the central 250 ha-lawn area as a park area while developing the outer spaces for residential and industrial buildings. As an answer to these plans a citizen initiative was founded in 2011 and was c alled 100% Tempelhof. The initiative aimed at maintaining the whole open area and preventing any residential and industrial development through a public referendum. The public referendum took place in Mai 2014 and Berlin's inhabitants finally decided in favor of the citizen's initiative.” ( Thierfelder & Kabisch 2016)

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TITION

// OR

a d voc ates a nd t a c t ic a l urba nis m a mba s s a d ors a u t h o rs of Ta ct i c a l Urba n i sm: sh o rt- tern a ct i o n fo r lo n g- term ch a n ge. “Tactic al Urbanism is frequently applied to what urban sociologist William ‘Holly’ Why te c alled ‘the huge reser voir of space yet untapped by imagination.’” Tactic al urbanism is an approach to neighbourhood building and activation using short-term, low-cost and sc alable inter ventions and policies. Tactic al urbanism is used by a range of actor s, including governments, business and nonprofits, citizen groups, and individuals. It makes use of open and iterative development processes, the efficient use of resources and the creative potential unleashed by social interaction.”

S U BU RBI A RE I M AGINED

TE MP E L H O F E R FEL D

REFE

R AC / P N /

MIK E LYDON & TONY GARCIA

IS A

P OL I CY

Pat ric ia Ael brec ht & Q uent in Stevens // 2 019 D raw i n g o n i ntern at i o n a l c a s e st u di es, t h e a u t h o rs i n Pu bli c S pa ce D esi gn & S o ci a l Co h esi o n ex plo re t h e ro le w h i ch pu bli c spa ce c a n play i n a ch i evi n g s o ci a l co h esi o n . Th ey u n pa ck t h e mea n i n g of ‘s o ci a l co h esi o n’ a n d mo des of bot h desi gn i n g pla ces fo r en co u nter a s well a s i nvo lvi n g co mmu n i t y i n t h e pro du ct i o n of pu bli c spa ce.

p rofe s s o r of a rc h i te c t u re a n d u rb a n d e s ig n m e l b o u rn e, a u st ra l i a D i re c tor of infor m a l u r b a n i sm h u b Re s e a rc h on u r b a n p l a c e id e nt i t y Pop - u p s a n d p u b l i c inte re st s: a g il e p u b l i c spa ce i n t h e n e ol ib e ra l c it y. “Tactic al urbanism has ironic aly become a new form of top -down strategic planning—by both the state and private interests. Temporar y urban inter ventions c an ser ve as vector s of gentrific ation and neolberal planning, or they c an be reactions to it.”

Ro b i n B oyd // 2 01 2 (F i r st pu b l i s h e d 1 9 6 0) Ro b i n B oyd wa s a n Austra l i a n a rc h i te c t w h o a d vo c ate d fo r go o d d e s i gn a n d i t s i nflu e n c e on i m p rov i n g q u a l i ty of l i fe fo r p e o p l e. T h e Au st ra l i a n U gl i n e s s i s o n e of B oyd ’s b e st s e l l in g b ooks. In th e b o o k , B oyd d e s c r i b e s a n d c r it i q u e s t h e Au stra l i a n s u b u r b s a n d th e i r h i stor y. I n f ra m i n g th e d e s i gn re s e a rc h p ro j e c t , B oyd ’s h istor ic re c o unt of Au stra l i a n s u b u r b s a n d t h e i r fa il u re s i s a n i m p o r ta nt re s o urc e.

2 014 ce of co llab orat i ve des i g n of public policy. I nten ds to licy m ake rs to un der st a nd too l fo r p ub lic pol i cy. an d benefits in po l i t i c s of ip at i o n and innovat i o n s.

KEY

KI M D OVE Y

T HE AU STRA L I A N UGL I N ESS

e do n e te mn my oti o n y th e or y, ith i n of

hi l o s o phe r, the o r ist and

P OLICY AS DESIGN

P UB LIC SPACE DESIGN AND SOCIAL COH ESION

d a n i s h a rc h i te c t , p ra c t i c i n g u rb a n d e s ig n c o n s u l t a nt a n d p rofe s s o r P u b l ic l ife at t h e c e nt re for u r b a n d e sig n , w i dely k n ow n for c re at in g a n d re n ew i n g u r b a n spa ces i n c it i e s a rou n d t h e wor l d Ad voc ate for “ h u m a n s c a l e” a n d p e d e st r ia n s c a l e d st re et s c a p e s “Only architecture that consider s human sc ale and interaction is successful architecture.”

u r b a n i st & a c t i v i st , mo n u ment a l i n e st a b l i s h i n g c o mmu n i t y-b a s ed a ppro a c h to c i t y b u i ldi n g . A fir m b e l i eve r of th e i m p o r ta n c e of l oc a l re s i d e nts h av i n g i n p ut o n h ow t h e ir n e ig h b ou r h o o d s d eve l o p. Ad vo c ate fo r th e c i ty stre et . “Jacobs saw cities as integrated systems that had their own logic and dynamism which would change over time according to how they were used.”

l a n d u s e strateg ist , tea c her, d evel op er, re s e a rc h e r a nd a ut ho r B a l a n c in g bu si n ess rea li t i es w i t h s o ci a l a n d e nvi ron m e nt a l co n cern s “The argument made by Leinberger and so many other s is that suburban sprawl, more than any other pattern of development, is heavily subsidized by the Americ an taxpayer and is a financial model that, despite its affordable appearances, will continue to strain us...”

JA N GE HL

J A N E J ACO B S

C HRI STOPH ER LEINB ERGER

pra c t i c i n g a r t i st a n d re g i ste re d a rc h i te c t syd n ey, a u st ra l ia A r t a n d d raw i n g t h at c h a l l e n g e s h ow we i nte r p ret t h e b u i l t e nvi ron m e nt . A bst ra c t s a n d fi l te r s su b j e c t s to d e s c r i b e t h e c i ty a n d p or t ray p a r t i c u l a r s oc i a l , p ol i t ic a l or e nvi ron m e nt a l m e ss a g e s.

YOUN G

e r wo r k on oppres s i o n a nd u n g’s res e arch est a bl i s hed in i st pol i t ic al t he o r y a n d Focu s of Young’s w r i t i ng i s gin g into view t he i nequ icracy and s oc ial l i fe.

O RG

e ‘strong

RIE

RI C HARD BRI GGS

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK/ COMMUNITY OF PR ACTICE

ic f t h e prac t ic-

ay Life, de formal tool of s ser ve as the on & Garcia

A nn Fo rsy t h & L a ura R Mus a c c hio // 2 0 05 Fo rsy t h & M u s a cch i o (2005) i n D esi gn i n g S ma ll Pa rks: A M a n u a l fo r Addressi n g S o ci a l a n d Eco lo gi c a l Co n cern s provi de gu i da n ce fo r la n ds c a pe a rch i tect s a n d u rba n desi gn ers i n t h e desi gn of sma ll pu bli c o pen spa ce a rea s. Th ei r res ea rch i s fo cu s ed pa rt i cu la rly o n desi gn i n g t h es e spa ces fo r a ddressi n g s o ci a l a n d eco lo gi c a l i ssu es fa ced i n co ntempo ra ry u rba n envi ro n ment s. Pa rt i cu la r desi gn deci si o n s a re ex plo red a n d a ppli ed to va ri o u s pa rks, u si n g precedent st u di es a n d i n co rpo rat i n g less o n s lea rnt t h ro u gh ex peri en ce, t h e a u t h o rs provi de a u s efu l a n a lysi s of co n s ci o u s desi gn deci si o n s t h at sh o u ld be i n co rpo rated i n sma ll pu bli c pa rks.

CHA R D S E NNET T //

ci o l og ist “p ragmat ist s o cia l p hi lo s o ph er ” lo g i c al ve rsus dia l ect i c s k i l l s i n e n ga ge m e nt h t h e co mmunit y nnett argues, that due to the twin impacts of cularization and industrial c apitalism, we have wly destroyed the ‘public realm’ and have c alated private expectations and psychologic al egories to such a grotesque extent that they have gun to define - and thus destroy - public life” (C ox 4, p. xvii).

P R ACT I T I O TION // NER

DESIGNING SMALL PARKS

NISA

A RG

RIE

Cha rl es Wa l d heim // 2 016 I n L a n ds c a pe a s Urba n i sm, Wa ldh ei m (2016 ) ex plo res t h e n ot i o n of la n ds c a pe a rch i tect u re a s a fo rm of u rba n i sm. Wa ldh ei m (2016 ) di s cu ss es t h e grow i n g a ppreci at i o n fo r la n ds c a pe’s ro le i n u rba n i sm pa rt i cu la rly i n t h e co ntext of co ntempo ra ry s o ci et y. Wa ldh ei m reco gn i s es t h at t h e la n ds c a pe a rch i tect i s h i sto ri c a lly well po si t i o n ed to sh a pe t h e u rba n rea lm. He ch a llen ges t h e s epa rat i o n of di s ci pli n es i n pra ct i ce a n d i n edu c at i o n , a rgu i n g t h at u rba n desi gn i s fu n da ment a lly a matter fo r t h e la n ds c a pe a rch i tect to co n si der. Wa ldh ei m’s (2016 ) t h eo ri es of la n ds c a pe u rba n i sm gi ve wei ght to t h e n ot i o n of t h e la n ds c a pe a rch i tect bei n g a ble to en ga ge w i t h pu bli c po li cy.

LANDSCAPE AS URB ANISM

REF E REN CES

CES

KE Y R E F E R E N

A R

ORI THE

SUBURBAN CIVILITY

a s s o c i ate p rofe s s o r of l a n d s c a p e a rc h i te c t u re m e l b ou r n e, a u st ra l i a Te m p ora r y i nte r ve nt ion s i n u r b a n sp a c e. Pop - u p s in Pe r t h : p ote nt i a l s a n d p rob l e m s of te m p ora r y u r b a n i sm .

a rc h i tec t a n d u r b a n i st . j o h n e. i r v i n g p rofe s s o r of la n ds c a pe a rc h i te c t u re. C h a r l e s Wa l d h e i m’s re s e a rc h i nte r rog ate s t h e re l ati o n s h i p b et we e n l a n d s c a p e, e c ol og y a n d ur b a n i s m . D i s c us s e s th e p rofou n d i m p a c t w h i c h l a n d s c a p e h a s h a d o n t h e c onte m p ora r y c it y c o m p a re d to th e i m p a c t of a rc h ite c t u re. E m p h a s i s e s th e c o nti n u e d c ult u ra l re l eva n c e of l a n d s c a p e i n ur b a n i s m .

QU EN TI N STE VE N S

CHA RL ES WA L D HEI M

i m age s 1 . S herk , B O 1 970, M ission an d Van Ness , Sa n Fra nc isc o, p hoto g ra ph , v iewed 10 Aug ust 2 02 0, <http ://w w w. pacifi c sta nd ard t imefest ival .o rg /events /p o r tab l e-parks -iv-past-p res ent-fu ture- a- l -l - by- b on nie- o ra- s herk / >. 2 . M end ez , E 2 01 9, Pu b lic P ar k in Tla lne p antla d e b az, M ex ico, p hoto g rap h, v iewed 1 7 Aug ust 2 02 0, <htt p s ://w w w.arc hd ail y.c om/94 3 4 2 1/p ub l ic -pa rk- in- tl a l nepant l a- p ro d ucto ra >. 3 . G rou nd P l ay n.d ., Sa n Jo se Gu er rero P ar k , p hoto g rap h, v iewed 1 7 Aug ust 2020, < http s ://g ro und p l aysf.org /p ro jects /s an- jo s e- g uerrero - park / #tab 1> . 4 . G o l l ing s , J 2 01 5, A’B e ckett Urb a n S q uare, p hotog rap h, v iewed o n 1 8 Au gu st 2020, < http :// l and ez ine.c om/ in dex .p hp/2015/01/ab eckett- urban -s q ua re/ > . 5. R ustemeyer, T 2007, Aktiv iere nd e St ad tent wic k lu ng /F lu g hafen Temp elh olf , v iewe d o n 01 S eptemb er 2 02 0, <htt ps : //rauml a bo r. net /aktiv ie rend e- stad tent wic kl u ng flug hafen- te mp el hof/ > 6. Lo c a l O ffi ce La nd s c ap e Arc hitec tu re n.d ., Gra nd C e nt ra l P ar k Mia mi, v iewed o n 1 8 Aug ust 2 02 0, <htt ps ://a rc hitiz er.co m/p ro jects /g ra nd -c ent ral - park-m iami/ >. 9. Pol icy as D es ig n 2 015, Fu tu re Grou nd C omp etit ion , v iewed 2 0 Oc to b er 2 02 0, <http s ://w w w.vana l en.org /co nte nt/up l oad s /2 016/03 / Te am- PaD - F inal - P ro p o s al .p d f> .

Pro d uc to ra A rc hitec t s // 2 019 // T l a l nep a nt l a d e B a z , Mexic o Pro j ect co mmi ssi o n ed by I N FON AV I T (Federa l I n st i t u te fo r wo rkers’ h o u si n g). Reh a bi li t ate ex i st i n g ri dge to create a ci vi c s qu a re fo r resi dent s fo r su rro u n di n g h o u si n g develo pment s. “The proposal consists of the rehabilitation of a large open median strip. The inter vention proposes a set of 9 squares, each measuring 20 x 20 m, arranged following the sloped topography. Each of the squares contains a specific program: a civic square with a flagpole, a tree-lined square, a square with play structures, a square with gathering benches, a multi-purpose triangular pavilion, a skate park , an outdoor gym, and two multipurpose courts.... The link between each of the squares and the sidewalk is mediated by means of stair s and ramps, so that all of them meet the accessibility requirements” (Productora 2018).

N RE

T LALNEPANT LA P UB LIC PARK 2

ORDE R

S e nnett // 2 02 0 a u t ho r s revisit th e e ar s ago in R ic ha rd o rd e r (1970) ”. Pa bl o a c t i v ist . S end ra offer s ons in the Open Ci t y . G u id e d by S enn ett ’s cit y the authors lic s paces t hat nte ra ction and s p ace me ans stra ngers to inte ra ct ” rs st ress the impore s as “u nfinis hab l e” spo n ding to commu nids.

// P REC

Pe r fo r m a n c e i n sta l l ati o n s . Tra n sfor m at i on of b a r re n , ste r i l e, ur b a n “d e a d s p a c e s” i nto g re e n l iv i n g e nv i ro n m e nts . “Sherk and the Otis students have worked on a series of a [sic] temporar y art installations that aim to shift the visitor’s perceptions of the natural, cultural and built environment at Santa Monic a Place. Given the unique design, sign and sustainability mission of the mall, it is the ideal loc ation for the projects” (Reeve & Moss 2012, para . 3).

ED REC

Y / / PRE C E D E N T / / C AS E S S E ST U D / / C A P O RTA B L E PA RKS I - I I I , I V 1 TUD Y B o n n i e O ra Sh er k // 1 970 // Sa n Fra n c i s c o CA ENT

S T U D Y / / P RE C E D E N T / / C A S E

ST U D

Y // P

SUBURBAN CIVILITY

project location

S TAT E

M E T R O P O L I TA N

The City of Brimbank is located approximately 11 kilometres north-west of Melbourne CBD, within the Western metropolitan region. The municipality is delineated by Hume to the north, Melton to the west, Wyndham and Hobsons Bay to the south, and Moonee Valley and Maribyrnong to the east. The municipality consists of 23 suburbs separated into four wards. This project focuses on the Grasslands Ward, containing the suburbs of Kings Park, Albanvale, Cairnlea, Deer Park and the western portion of St Albans (divided by the train line). The reason for selecting the Grasslands Ward was twofold: 1) it is the area in which I grew up and as such a place which I know well, and 2) it is recognised as one of the more disadvantaged areas of the municipality (City of Brimbank 2016b).

SUBURBAN CIVILITY

LO CA L G OV E R N M E N T AREA

municipal profile

P O P U L AT I O N DENSITY

MEDIAN AGE

The above census data provides a snapshot of the demographic profile of the municipality (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2016). Population density within the Grasslands ward averages between 25-50 people per hectare, and compared to the other three wards, appears to be the more densely populated area of the municipality. Based on the available data, median age within Grasslands is 34, representing that of a younger population as compared to Taylors ward to the north with a median age of 38.

Providing a further sense of the demographic profile, the final map indicates the percentage of population born overseas. Generally, the municipality as a whole represents a large population of people born overseas. Interestingly, connections can be drawn in comparing the IRSD data and the population born overseas data. This data provides an important insight into the demographic profile of the municipality and the population which public open space policy needs to serve.

The SEIFA Index is calculated by the ABS and ranks areas across Australia based on relative socio-economic advantage and disadvantage (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2018). The Index of Relative Socio-economic Disadvantage (IRSD) analyses various population data relating to relative disadvantage to provide a sense of the social and economic condition of people within a statistical area. A low IRSD score indicates high disadvantage, while a high IRSD score indicates low disadvantage (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2018). The northern and western portion of Grasslands presents high levels of relative disadvantage, while the south-western portion (Cairnlea area) presents a lower level of relative disadvantage.

P O P U L AT I O N BORN OVERSEAS

SUBURBAN CIVILITY

S E I FA I N D E X O F D I S A D VA N TA G E

PAT H N E T W O R K / CANOPY COVER

grasslands ward

SUBURBAN CIVILITY

L A N D U S E ZO N ES

UDGV

VicHealth Physical Activity Strategy 2019-2023

STATE

Victorian Cycling Strategy 2018-28

Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006

LOCAL RESERVES SURPLUS LAND

Creating Places for People

MANAGEMENT

Our Cities, Our Future 2011

SIGNAGE

FEDERAL

POLICY/STRATEGIC DOCUMENT

THEME

strategic landscape

Parks Victoria Linking People and Spaces Report 2002

Kororoit Creek Regional Strategy 2005-2030

REGIONAL

Greening the West Strategic Plan

West Trails 2017

SAFETY

Open Space Network Provision and Distribution 2017

LIGHTING

VicRoads Bicycle Priority Routes

NATURAL/LANDSCAPE ENVIRONS

METROPOLITAN

VicRoads Principal Bicycle Network

CHANGES TO PARK NETWORK

Plan Melbourne 2050

Sale of Surplus Land Policy 2019

Brimbank Social Justice Charter 2018

Brimbank Physical Activity Strategy 2018

SOCIAL COHESION

ACCESS

Creating Better Parks Policy & Plan 2016

KEY OBJECTIVES & STRATEGIES P. 32 “Any remaining areas” P. 32 “Mainly linkages, easements and parks which provide areas for ”kick about”... these parks would comprise only grass, with some pathways, seating and significant tree planting associated with the implementation of Council’s Urban Forest Strategy.”

Clause 3.1 - All Council land is to be retained unless all the following criteria applies: a. The land is no longer used or intended to be used for a purpose associated with service provision by Council. b. The land is not being used for its originally intended purpose.

Direction 4.6 - Strengthen community participation in the planning of our city.

P. 35 “All Flagship, Suburban and Neighbourhood Parks should have naming signage which also incorporates information on park regulations from an educational perspective.” “Directional interpretive and distance signage and distance indicators should be placed along creeks and waterways. This should be undertaken as a priority on existing trails.”

Clause 21.06-2 Signage on buildings or free standing signage facing areas of public open space and waterways are to be appropriate to the scale of the building and surrounds; Signage should be finished in muted tones and colours; and Discourage signage associated with sponsorship of sporting clubs.

P. 35 “Council will work towards a new open space network which provides appropriate access to good quality, sustainably managed parks.”

Policy 5.4.1 - Develop a network of accessible, high-quality, local open spaces.

P.35 “Changes to park hierarchy, functionality, community requests for changes and determining if playgrounds or open spaces are surplus to requirements, will be assessed based on the following criteria: - Functionality requirements within the surrounding area; - Ease of walkability to other nearby spaces; - Minimum open space requirements; - Community demand - Fit for propose [sic]; - Long term urban densities; - Utilisation of health indicators from Australian Health Policy Collaboration Report.

P. 35 Security lighting will be considered in parks where: - The park is used as a pedestrian linkage to a community facility, public transport or commercial hub after hours - There are no other more effective measures that can be taken to improve the security (e.g. locking gates, removal of vegetation to improve casual surveillance, more frequent police patrols, etc.)

Clause 21.05-1 Strategy 2.8 - New development should provide passive surveillance of adjoining parks, river and creek corridors. Clause 21.11-3 Strategy 2.5 - Ensure development adjoining open spaces is oriented towards the park to provide passive surveillance of the public realm.

Clause 21.05-1 Strategy 2.4 - Require the use of suitable vegetation on public and private land adjacent to waterways. - It is policy that remnant native vegetation along Brimbank’s creeks and rivers should be retained and revegetated to facilitate the creation of habitat corridors. Clause 21.05-1 Objective 2 - To ensure landscaping along active interfaces incorporates crime prevention measures.

Brimbank Planning Scheme

OPEN SPACE

Community Strengthening Policy 2014

Brimbank Council Plan 2017-2021 * High-level guiding policy.

P. 19 - Continue to support the delivery of planned projects identified within CBPPP & CWS. P. 19 - Ensure targeted and inclusive programming of spaces occurs following the completion of any new infrastructure in parks, playgrounds and open space.

Principle 4 - Provide an appropriate amount of open range of community uses.

Principle 5 - Deliver a network of open space types neighbourhood, community, district, municipal and provide for a range of uses, functions and differing l

P. 33 - Strategic Direction 4 - Diversifying the range of open space opportunities (recreation, tourism, conservation) in the region and developing strong linkages between them.

Clause 21.11-3 Strategy 2.4 - Ensure lighting is provided to all paths, amenities and playground facilities.

P. 34 “Unauthorised vehicles will be excluded from open space through the installation of barriers and community education.”

Strategy 2.3 - Encourage low-level planting adjacent to windows, fencing and pathways to define private and public land. - It is policy that landscaping should clearly guide pedestrians along defined pathways, should not create concealment or entrapment areas, should incorporate low or transparent fencing to increase visibility through sites and should ensure clear site lines throughout landscaped areas.

Goal 1 - Maximise urban greening - double canopy cover in the west by 2050, green space increased by 25% by 2030

P. 35 - Action: Ensure tree planting in urban parks a achieves 50% canopy cover. P. 38 - Action: Integrate open space grassland area landscape through tree and vegetation planting. P. 40 - Action: Support community led food growing publicly owned vacant land

Strategic Objective 3.4 - The natural environment s biodiversity that is protected and well connected.

Strategy 2.2 - Encourage low-level fencing or vegetation around areas of private ownership.

Policy 5.4.2 - Support community gardens and productive streetscapes.

Clause 21.11-3 Objective 1 - To ensure all residents have equal access to high quality parks and playgrounds. Strategy 1.1 - Facilitate development of the parks and open space network comprising district, suburban, neighbourhood and local reserves, and linear parks and trails.

Principle 1 (3.1.1) - Programs, activities, facilities and resources will be available for all people in Brimbank. Programs will be developed in response to identified community needs and priorities and will be affordable for all people in the community.

Goal 3 - Increase the use and interaction of residen residents to have access to quality green space wi home

Principle 2 (3.2.1) - Programs, activities, facilities and resources will be planned and delivered on the basis of equitable access for all people.

Principle 1 - Deliver a network of open spaces that a community access within a safe 5 minute walk (app 95% of residents.

Commitment 3 - Ensuring equity in the provision of all services, facilities and programs.

Principle 3 (3.3.2) - Programs, activities, facilities and resources will be planned and delivered to meet the needs of a diverse community. This includes diversity of language, religion, ethnicity, gender, socio-economic status, geographic location, sexuality, ability and age.

Principle 2 - Create a network of open spaces that free of charge and connected by safe pedestrian a transport options and where practicable co-locate infrastructure.

Strategic Objective 3.2 - People can get around easily on foot, by bike, car or public transport

Policy 4.6.1 - Create diverse opportunities for communities to participate in planning Commitment 4 - Provide access to opportunities for genuine community participation to inform Council’s decision making processes.

Principle 6 (3.6.1) - The contributions of community members and community groups will be recognised, valued and respected.

Strategic Objective 1.2 - People have opportunities community life

Principle 7 - Strengthening and valuing community leadership and participation in local decision making.

Objective 3.2 - Establish a series of park nodes along the Kororoit Creek corridor to provide a diverse range of connected recreational experiences. p. 102 - While all of these parks are located within a short distance of the creek, they are not well connected to it and do not contribute to a recognisable Kororoit Creek Park system.

Direction 4.1 - Create more great public places acro Policy 4.3.1 - Promote urban design excellence in ev environment.

Goal 2 - Improve quality and functionality of green space - ensure well-designed green open space for all communities

P. 33 - Strategic Direction 2 - Realising the potential of existing parks to meet the needs of currently under-serviced communities. 4-9 year Action - Close the gaps in the Kororoit Creek.

Focus Area 2.7 - Influence the design and use of public spaces for recreation.

Principle 6 - Design, build and maintain open spaces to optimise their capacity and resilience, and to enhance community appreciation.

Objective 1.6 - Work with local councils to address gaps in strategic cycling corridors. “We will work with local councils to join up strategic cycling corridors on local streets, arterial roads, highways, rail corridors and green spaces.”

P. 49 - Actions 01-09 - “Continuing the trail along the length of the creek from it’s northern extent at just north of Mount Kororoit, to Altona with no missing links would provide a scenic, high quality trail of significant distance with potential for loops with connecting trails.”

Objective 3.1 - Complete gaps in the Kororoit Creek continuous shared use trail.

- No reference to “Local Reserves”; focus on existing paths and arterial road routes, no direction toward establishing new, off-road connections.

- Recognises lack of access to open space as a disa does not recognise the role of public open space in e cohesion.

- Based on survey in 2015, limited responses (239 surveys); 0.2% of the total adult population, inaccurate representation of actual community sentiment - Guided by “good community access” with no reference to what is considered to be “good” - Level of guidance/policy direction/strategic support for park typologies guided by hierarchy and does not consider the important role of smaller “local reserves” GAPS

LOCAL

Community Facilities and Reserves Allocation Major Policy

Strategic Objective 2.1 - Public and open spaces ar well-maintained.

Strategy 2.1 - Encourage pedestrian-scale lighting along pathways.

Strategic Objective 2.1 - Public and open spaces are safe, clean, and well-maintained.

CONNECTIVITY

Brimbank Urban Forest Strategy

Clause 21.11-3 Strategy 2.1 - The use of recreational facilities and public open space should not create significant off-site impacts.

P. 34 “Council will focus management resources according to open space hierarchy and intensity of use.” P. 34 “Open space will be monitored to a quality that is ‘fit for purpose’.”

Clause 21.11-3 Strategy 1.3 - Encourage the extension of the open space corridor along the length of Kororoit Creek.

Brimbank Cycling & Walking Strategy Update 2016

c. The land has a net realisable value for another purpose which is significantly greater than the cost of re-establishing the service on another site. d. The land does not contribute to the achievement of a current Council objective. e. The land has no strategic significance to Council on a long term basis.

- “Major Policy” with very limited policy direction; no recognition of “local reserves” or even “public open space” as a key facility/reserve asset. - Limited reference to other Council policies, strategies and plans; limited reference to Creating Better Parks Program and Plan; does not address competing directions for increased tree planting and safety (obscured views)

Objective 3.11 - Develop connections, particularly tr creek corridor and adjoining residential areas and c

- No objective related to improving quality and acces space across the municipality, although acknowledg points of importance identified through the commun engagement process.

CRITIQUE

CONDITION

- Lack of policy direction in CBPPP results in “vacant lot” type open space areas - No services or amenities provided and predominantly overgrown grass - Paths seldom provided, and when provided, serve a thoroughfare purpose

USAGE

re safe, clean, and

FLAGSHIP PARK

USAGE

- No clear definition of “good quality” - Sale of surplus land as a preference to management and improvement of “local reserves” and in-between spaces.

LOCAL RESERVE

- Maximum management in “Flagship Parks” (3km radius), minimum management in “Local Reserves” and undefined public open space areas. - Self-perpetuating: higher hierarchy equals greater investment, in turn causing greater usage and consequently further investment, whereas lower ranking causes lower investment resulting in less usage and thus less investment - No definition of what is meant by ‘fit for purpose’ - Signage and way-finding prioritised toward already established infrastructure and services. - No policy direction toward establishing additional trails and pathways.

n space to cater for a

- Local policy provides no guidance or strategies for the provision of high quality public open space - Establishes a means for evaluating the quality of public open space but does not prescribe or define objectives and standards to work towards - Metropolitan level policies and strategies encourage diversity in the open space network, however local policy does not respond to this

s (pocket, d regional parks) that levels of amenity.

- Lighting seen as a last resort option for increasing safety in public open spaces, relying on alternative means that discourage any usage of the site in the first instance. This includes fencing, removal of vegetation and policing - all contrary to other policy directions contained within the CBPPP and related Council policies and plans. - Barriers to open space areas discourage usage, particularly in the case of “local reserves” and smaller public open space areas across the municipality

and open spaces to

as into the open space

- BPS & UFS encourage increased canopy tree planting and landscaping, while the CBPPP discourages planting which obstructs views into and across sites - GTW strategy also encourages canopy planting which competes with the direction of CBPPP - CBPPP suggests Local Reserves without paths are suitable for public use while the BPS encourages landscaping that guides pedestrians along defined pathways, implying pathless spaces should not be used

g opportunities on

supports thriving

nts in green space - all ithin 400-500 m of their

- Quality of open/green space not defined at a local, regional or metropolitan level. “Local Reserves” satisfy the access requirements under current statutory/strategic framework, while arguably providing no community benefit. - This lack of definition, coupled with the current CBPPP, results in the “vacant lot” typology satisfying guidelines despite being unusable and uninviting to the public with little to no maintenance and equally poor amenity and facilities.

are located to ensure proximately 400m) of

are accessible to all, and cycle links, public ed with community

s to participate in

- While current policy calls for opportunities for community participation and democratic decision making, it fails to recognise the role that public open space can play in enabling participation in civil life

oss Melbourne. very aspect of the built

- The CBPPP does not align with the objectives, strategies and principles of other local, regional and state policies that highlight the needs for connectivity - There are opportunities within the current park network to improve access and movement between parks and in the current strategic landscape there area number of informal paths that have emerged connecting various categories of public open space.

k Trail to create a

rail links, between the community ‘attractors’.

ss to public open ged as one of the key nity consultation and

INFORMAL PATH

BUFFER

RESIDENTIAL LAND

VEGETATED BANK

Outdated policy, without update. Not referenced in Plan Melbourne, however still referenced in Planning Scheme. 4-9 year actions still not realised.

- Fails to recognise the potential role that public open space (and access to it) can play in the strengthening of community

- Missed opportunity for the role of “local reserves” in increasing the municipality’s canopy coverage and shrub/groundcover coverage. - No reference to Brimbank’s park/open space hierarchy.

- While the strategic plan recognises the role that the Kororoit Creek plays in the West’s trail network and that improved access to trails is particularly important for a demographic such as that in Brimbank, there is no direction to improving the gap in the trail along Grasslands ward.

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advantage, however enhancing social

CREEK

- Local and state policy and strategy encourages “great” and “well-designed” public open spaces, but do not provide any guidance or minimum requirements for what constitutes great public open space - The BCP encourages safe and well-maintained public open space, while the CBPPPP provides for minimal intervention in lower-order public spaces with most emphasis placed on “Flagship” parks intended to serve a greater catchment without considering access.

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defining the project

P U B L I C O P E N S PAC E The definition of ‘public open space’ varies widely across landscape architecture, urban planning, sociology, public health and urban design literature. In positioning this research, public open space has been defined as open space areas on publicly owned land including parks, green spaces, playgrounds, public seating areas, public plazas, easements, reserves and vacant lots (Grose 2010; Heart Foundation 2017; Nicol & Blake 2000; United States Environmental Protection Agency 2017). Importantly, public open spaces should be accessible areas of sociability which enable face-to-face interaction and service the recreational needs of the local community (Dines et al. 2006).

“... well developed parks contribute to the physical and mental health of residents, create better connected communities, make a significant contribution to the character of neighbourhoods and help protect environments and cultural heritage.” (The City of Brimbank 2016, p. 4)

Design plays a vital role in the quality of public open space areas. Public open spaces with poor (or no) design tend to attract less users and activity than their well-designed counterparts (Francis et al. 2012). The design of public open space need not prescribe specific uses or users, rather it should provide a free access arena which is equitably accessible to all groups within a community for a ‘entire spectrum of activities’ (Gehl 2011, p. 14) including freedom of expression and action, temporary claim, participation, contact and interaction (Aelbrecht, Stevens & Nisha 2019; Carmona 2010; Carmona 2019; Francis et al. 2012). The City of Brimbank’s (2016, p. 4) Creating Better Parks Policy and Plan recognises that ‘well-developed parks contribute to the physical and mental health of residents, create better connected communities, make a significant contribution to the character of neighbourhoods and help protect natural environments and cultural heritage’.

CIVILITY Civility lies at ‘the interstices of public and private, social norms and moral laws, conservative nostalgia and democratic potentiality’ (Boyd 2006, p. 864). Throughout this design research project, the meaning of civility is adapted from Boyd’s (2006) definition which describes civility as denoting to a sense of membership to a particular political community, including its inherent rights and responsibilities. This definition of civility refers to ‘diffuse civility’ (Fyfe, Bannister & Kearn 2006, p. 855), having regard to the physical embodiment of politics in a civil society. The notion of civility underlying this research recognises that the city is ‘a place that implicates how one derives one’s ethics, how one develops a sense of justice, how one learns to talk with and learn from people who are unlike oneself’ (Sennett, cited in Fyfe, Bannister & Kearn 2006, p. 861). On this basis, civility can be expressed through the design of democratic spaces, where participation, interaction and citizenship is enabled between “strangers” of culturally, ethnically, economically and socially diverse backgrounds (Sennett 2020).

SOCIAL COHESION Aelbrecht, Stevens and Nisha (2019, p. 1) describe social cohesion as being ‘traditionally understood as the state of affairs concerning how well people form an effective and meaningful whole … often considered an indicator of a wellfunctioning society’. Definitions of social cohesion, however, differ depending on ideological positioning and in response to various sociology and policy debates (Markus & Kirpitchenko 2007). The definition of social cohesion adopted in this research project is informed by Forrest and Kearns’ (2001) five domains of social cohesion outlined in Table 1 below. Description

Common values and a civic culture

Common aims and objectives; common moral principles and codes of behaviour; support for political institutions and participation in politics

Social order and social control

Absence of general conflict and threats to the existing order; absence of incivility; effective informal social control; tolerance; respect for difference; intergroup co-operation

Social solidarity and reductions in wealth disparities

Harmonious economic and social development and common standards; redistribution of public finances and of opportunities; equal access to services and welfare benefits; ready acknowledgement of social obligations and willingness to assist others

Social networks and social capital

High degree of social interaction within communities and families; civic engagement and associational activity; easy resolution of collective action problems

Place attachment and identity

Strong attachment to place; intertwining of personal and place identity

In the context of the Australian suburb, landscape architecture has the opportunity to recognise the power which public open space can play in creating spaces for contact and, in turn, foster and enhance social cohesion (Aelbrecht, Stevens & Nisha 2019; Cattell, Dines, Gesler & Curtis 2008; Forrest & Kearns 2001).

(adapted from Forrest & Kearns 2001, p. 2129).

Domain

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Table 1 ‘The domains of social cohesion’

DEMOCRACY Democracy as defined in the Encyclopedia Britannica literally means ‘rule by the people’ (Dahl 2021, para. 1). The United Nations (n.d., p. 2) describes essential underpinnings of democracy as ‘“human rights,” “fundamental freedoms,” “the equal rights of men and women,” “life in larger freedom,” “selfdetermination,” and the removal of distinctions on the basis of “race, sex, language or religion.” In achieving social justice, democracy is seen as an integral driver and condition (Young 1990). Within the built environment and in the local context, democracy is driven by participation in the use and realisation of public space and its design (Sennett 2020). ‘[S]paces of democracy (spaces for the practice of democracy) and the democracy of space (democratic relations in the production of space) are intertwined, and link to conceptions and imaginations of public space, democracy and citizenship’ (Hoskyns 2014, p. 4). Thus, in my research, democracy is seen as the catalyst for achieving civility within suburban public open space from its design and implantation, to its management and usage. Jones (2018, p. 23) illustrates the relationship between landscape architecture, institutions of democracy and normative dimensions of democracy (i.e. ‘differing views of what is considered most significant in democratic society’) in the below diagram (Figure 1).

Figure 1 Jones’ (2018) landscape and democracy conceptual model (adapted from Jones 2018, p. 23).

“ I N - B E T W E E N ” S PAC E S “In-between” spaces refer to those public open space areas within the suburban environment which are largely neglected, barren areas and are generally devoid of any activity. These “in-between” spaces can include vacant lots, easements, thoroughfares, pocket parks, road reserves and verges. Oftentimes these spaces are the remnants of suburbanisation and patterns of subdivision, left to their own and forgotten. Within Brimbank, “in-between” spaces are prevalent and lack attention, policy guidance, investment and design intervention, however form an integral component in the provision of public open space and connectivity between these areas. In the current policy and plan, inbetween spaces within Brimbank would typically be classified as “local reserves” (City of Brimbank 2016).

PUBLIC REALM As with most definitions presented above, defining “public realm” can be problematic and its meaning can be ambiguous in the distinction between public/ private (Weintraub 1997). From the civic perspective, the public realm can be understood in contrast to the private, in that it is distinguished by a collectiveness of ‘solidarity, … public spirit, … active citizenship and collective self-determination’ (Weintraub 1997, p. 36). Lennard & Lennard (1995, para. 6) describe ‘the public realm [as] the opposite of the private world of the family, of closed societies or clubs; in these groups there is the amplification of one point of view; its members speak with one voice.’ The definition of “public realm” is broad, variable and complex having diffuse meanings and reach.

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Therefore, in my own research, “public realm” has been distilled to be understood as those parts of the urban environment (regardless of ownership) which are accessible to the public. This can include, but is not limited to, public open space.

policy & design

“Public policies are made in capital cities, but they live or die in suburbs and neighborhoods.” (Mintrom & Leutjens 2018, p. 122)

‘Policy design’ is an emerging concept in contemporary literature regarding policy and policymaking. This has predominantly been in response to government focus on innovation and has been driven by the notion of applying ‘design thinking’ as a way of reframing policy issues (Lewis, McGann & Blomkamp 2020). The concept of policy design has been traditionally driven by concepts found in industrial and product design, applying the design approaches from these two disciplines to the formulation of effective public policy (Lewis, McGann & Blomkamp 2020). Mintrom and Leutjens (2018, p. 122) describe that fundamentally, ‘design thinking challenges the notion that smart people located in government precincts can define policy problems without leaving the office’. Policy design incorporates the inquisitive and open nature of design into the typically rigid realm of public policymaking, to encourage policymakers and practitioners to push the boundaries and think more broadly in response to public issues (Considine 2018; Guy Peters 2018). This project intends to build on the idea of policy design, through applying the lens and expertise of the landscape architecture in order to address problems identified in the existing provision of public open space areas. The iterative process of design, particularly landscape architectural design, has the potential to push the boundaries of traditional policymaking (Guy Peters 2018; Lewis, McGann & Blomkamp 2020). The project intends to question and interrogate the landscape that has emerged as a result of existing policy and strategic frameworks, to work from the site outwards and propose a new suite of potential policy interventions. The aim of which would be to provide quality public open space areas within the Australian suburban context. Through the design research, I intend to expand policy design to encompass a broader approach, that is; design as a policy tool. Mukherjee and Bali (2019, p. 105) explain that ‘public policy is primarily about problem solving’ and policy design is intended to purposefully develop policy solutions to address those problems. Similarly, through immersion in site and comprehensive contextual analysis, the landscape architect can develop an intimate understanding of the site (or typology), its constraints and its issues, and help to inform effective policies that can, in turn, influence future design interventions. Blomkamp (2021, p. 9) explains that a ‘design-led process focuses on the lived experience of the people involved or affected by an issue’. This lived experience, I argue, is something which the landscape architect deals with in responding to any design brief and something which can be deduced (and then addressed) by careful site analysis. The multi-scalar approach to the discipline, affords the landscape architect with an understanding of complex spatial and social relationships operating in the public sphere (Mintrol & Leutjens 2018) which can be addressed through the design of public policy – particularly in regard to policy which directly aims to inform urban morphology.

GOVERNMENT Creates

POLICY LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

STRATEGY

Constrained by

Informs

GOVERNMENT

COMMUNITY

Guides

PUBLIC REVIEW

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

OUTPUT DESIGN DESIGN

Output

Figure 2 Proposed restructuring of the policymaking process, driven by the notion of ‘policy design’ - policy as a design tool adaptive and reflexive. Move from linear “top-down” model to cyclical , iterative “bottom-up” model of policy driven by design insight and positioning.

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POLICY Responds to

Informs

Revi

Te s t

Revi

Te s t

DESIGN ITERATION

POLICY & DESIGN IN PRACTICE Recognising the privilege which the landscape architect can offer in the design of policy for public space, this research project intends to explore the potential for design to not only inform policy, but also test and interrogate its effectiveness. The typical linear model of policymaking and implementation is interrogated and a cyclical model is proposed whereby the landscape architect is the facilitator - the agent - for developing policy from the ground up in conjunction with the local community and government bodies.

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

COMMUNITY

GOVERNMENT

Figure 3 Thesis diagram - Policy as a component of the design process, informed by and informing landscape output. The landscape architect is the advisor, the agent enabling collaborative and collective development, review and implementation of public open space policy.

Design in this proposed model is not only engaged with through the public open space outcome but viewed holistically in the scheme of the policymaking process. Outputs are intended to be iterative; reviewed and tested on a regular basis to continually inform policy development. Further to the standard policy design framework which applies design thinking to policymaking, this project explores the role of design throughout the entire process from site to policy to output (Lewis, McGann & Blomkamp 2020). The relationship between design and policy explored throughout this research is complex and difficult to distil in a single diagram (Figure 4). In demonstrating the synergy between design and policy, and how this would be implemented in practice, the following pages of this research compendium intends to capture the essence of the thesis through a series of sites identified across the City of Brimbank. As with all design, the project commences with an in-depth analysis, understanding and appreciation of site. Learning from observations of how the community currently uses public open spaces across the municipality, the initial design responses are intended to synthesise established and emerging occurrences of appropriation of space as a foundation for further investigation.

Figure 4 Mapping the relationship between landscape architect (the designer) and the design research project.

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It is pertinent to note, however, that the designs are indeed iterative and intended to be the starting point for further interrogation. An understanding of opportunities within each space, from the perspective of the landscape architect, is foundational to the development of the research and is progressive. The project endeavours to demonstrate the reciprocal relationship between design and policy in enabling productive public open spaces conducive to social cohesion.

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type/typology

In establishing the design research project, I further distil the vast typologies which are observable within the ‘local reserve’ category presented in the City of Brimank’s Creating Better Parks Policy & Plan (CBPPP). To do this effectively, however, an understanding of ‘typology’ needs to be established. The notion of typology has been an emergent concept in architecture since the early eighteenth century (Jacoby 2015; Moneo 1978). Its definition since then has been transient, and its relevance within architectural discourse has wavered (abandoned in its entirety during the Modern Movement in the early twentieth century) (Jacoby 2015). Typology, in its broadest sense, is ‘the study and theory of architectural types’ (Kelbaugh 1996, p. 41). “Architectural type” is distinct to building type being closely related to the morphological configuration of a particular space (Kelbaugh 1996). Typology has been adopted in my design research project to establish distinct spatial characteristics that are common between various public open spaces within Brimbank. I contend that commonalities can be drawn between certain morphological characteristics of ‘local reserves’, and through this policy guidelines can be established to address issues distinct to a particular type of public open space area. In other words, through grouping typologically similar spaces together, interventions can be assessed and implemented to address issues and constraints present within that type. Typological thinking, as suggested by Guney (2007), enables identification of types which can then be juxtaposed to identify relationships and complementarities. Typology also allows the landscape architect to review how issues present in that type have been addressed and remedied in the past (Kelbaugh 1996). Therefore, types and typology can be particularly useful in employing policy as a design technique, where clear design guidance can be written and legislated to remedy type-specific challenges through distilling the complex condition of the urban environment. Additionally, a perceived benefit for this design research project in establishing a typological framework is that it can be adapted and applied to different suburban areas to address shared public open space inefficiencies.

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Figure 5 Positioning the typological approach to categorising the condition of public open space areas.

existing condition

S E AT I N G

The following visual survey includes photographs collected from a series of site visits to public open spaces across the Grasslands ward. The open space areas surveyed include parks from all existing categories of public open spaces as identified through the CBPPP as well as the in-between spaces this research project focuses on. The purpose of this visual survey is to capture the essence of the existing public open space network throughout Grasslands, in an attempt to better understand existing conditions.

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BARRIERS

G R O U N D T R E AT M E N T

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PAT H S

appropriation in action

VA N DA L I S M & DUMPING

ACCESS

During the site visits undertaken across the research project timeline, a range of repeating examples of community appropriation of public open space emerged, detailed in the following photographs. These site observations are pertinent considerations in reviewing and establishing an appropriate policy response. Direct access to public open space areas from the private realm enables the open space area to become an extension of the individual’s backyard. Similarly, ‘guerrilla gardening’ with fruit trees and plants

Not all observed appropriation of space was positive, however, with examples of dumping and graffiti across a range of POS areas. While not positive, this too is an indicator of gaps in the existing public open space system. These examples of dumping and graffiti demonstrate a lack of pride-of-place. The community do not take care of these in-between public open spaces because Council does not either. While current policy is intended for these places to be “kickabout” (City of Brimbank 2016, p. 32)

public open spaces, the lack of both investment and attention, has left these spaces to become dumping grounds, accented and defined by overgrown grass, peoples’ rubbish and graffiti. I would also note that these examples of dumping, guerrilla gardening, installation of domestic sporting facilities and graffiti were not evident in site visits to higher order public open space areas such as the Flagship and Suburban Parks identified by the CBPPP.

45 SUBURBAN CIVILITY

SPORTING

GARDEN

along residential boundaries indicate the community’s response to being located next to vacant land. The community is taking ownership of the in-between spaces where there is inadequate policy or municipal intervention. Gaps in access to appropriate sporting facilities were also evident through installation of domestic basketball hoops and soccer pitches. Again, these were identified in in-between spaces not identified in the CBPPP or with inadequate formal intervention.

categorising public open space

C U R R E N T C AT E G O R I E S OF POS

The existing public open space policy in Brimbank, the CBPPP, maps the four categories of open space across the municipality. The adjacent map indicates where, across Brimbank, the various categories of public open space are present. The project focuses on the Grasslands ward (indicated in orange). A range of POS types are observable within the Grasslands ward, however the quality of these spaces are not immediately apparent. In further refining and analysing these spaces, detailed site analysis is carried out to establish an additional nine (9) typologies which focus predominantly on those POS areas that are categorised as ‘local reserves’ or not currently recognised by the CBPPP at all.

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P R O P O S E D T Y P O LO G I ES Through a combination of physical site visits and desktop analysis, the identified nine (9) lower-order POS typologies across the Grasslands ward have been mapped onto the map opposite. Existing recognised public open space has been mapped using geospatial data available from the City of Brimbank. What this map indicates is a gap between POS areas currently recognised and categorised by the CBPPP and POS areas acknowledged by the municipality but without any policy directing their use or acknowledging their role in the broader network of public spaces across the municipality. The nine (9) typologies apply to POS areas recognised by the CBPPP (typically within the ‘local reserve’ category), POS areas recognised by Council but not included in the CBPPP, and some POS areas that are not recognised in Council’s CBPPP or accounted for in their database.

E X I ST I N G P O S D I ST R I B U T I O N G R A S S L A N D S WA R D

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The adjacent diagram details the built form and condition of the identified nine (9) typologies. While the typologies share some similarities, there are various differences between them which need to be considered in adapting a suitable policy response. A conscious decision has been made to include each typology separately, recognising that the sequence of events and existing statutory controls which led to their existence within the urban fabric vary. As such, it is the position of this project that policy interventions to remedy these “inbetween” spaces would need to vary in considering the history of the site. Typology 8 is the “local reserve” typology. This category of space is consistent with the existing CBPPP. Typology 8 has been assigned to those areas across the Grasslands ward which are identified in the CBPPP as a “local reserve” and actually display features and are consistent with the design standards described in the existing policy.

“Vacant lot” typology No paths Usually fenced - bollards or chainlink Predominantly grass, sparse vegetation Not recognised in CBPPP Sometimes provide connection between streets

“Thoroughfare” typology Similar to Type_1, with path Path usually concrete construction, extension of footpath Usually fenced - bollards or chainlink Predominantly grass, sparse vegetation Provide connection to between streets

“Asset Reserve” typology Containing Council owned or other public authority asset Fenced off, no access provided Identified as “open space” at either local or state level No vegetation

“Road reserve” typology Little to no amenity Surrounded by roadways Simple thoroughfare type path, usually concrete Some canopy planting

“Natural reserve connector” typology Vacant land, containing predominantly grass Provide visual connection to natural reserves, no path Identified in the CBPPP Usually fenced - bollards or chainlink

“Local reserve” typology Identified in CBPPP as local reserve, and provides some amenities/facilities Bollards along edges Multiple pedestrian paths

“Large green space” typology 2500sq. m + No amenities Usually fenced - bollards or chainlink Provide area of green space with no prescribed use Limited understorey planting, canopy trees along edges

“Cul-de-sac connector” typology Two or more vacant lots that provide a connection between cul-de-sacs Usually fenced - bollards or chainlink Some lighting Concrete paths Limited planting, predominantly grass

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“Concrete path” typology Solely for the purpose as a thoroughfare No notable green space, predominantly concrete Narrow Fenced with bollards Provide access between residential lots

EXISTING CATEGORIES

PROPOSED TYPOLOGIES

Identifier

Name

Context

Edge Condition/Interfaces

Typology 1

Vacant Lot

400 - 800

200

Residential Lot

Fence/Bollards + Residential

Typology 2

Thoroughfare

300 - 700

200

Residential Lot

Bollards + Residential

Typology 3

Asset Reserve

4000 >

800

Contains Infrastructure

Chain-link fencing

Typology 4

Concrete Path

100 - 200

Between Residential Lots

Bollards

Typology 5

Natural Reserve Connector

500 - 1000

800

Residential/Natural System

Bollards Residential/Public interface

Typology 6

Large Green Space

5000 >

1000

Residential/Infrastructure

Bollards, other open space areas, Residential

Typology 7

Road Reserve

Varies

Roadway

Bollards, Roadway

Typology 8

Local Reserve

Varies

400

Designated Open Space

Some bollards; Roadway/Residential

Typology 9

Cul-de-sac Connector

1000 >

400

2+ abutting culs-de-sac

Bollards/Low-fence; Residential/Road

Flagship Park

Varies

3000

Residential

Bollards; Residential

Suburban Park

6000 - 10 000

1000

Residential

Bollards; Residential

Neighbourhood Park

6000 - 10 000

500

Residential

Bollards; Residential

Table 2 Proposed and existing typologies - features of categorisation.

Size (sqm)

Catchment (m)

Access

Lighting

“Kick about”, Green space

No path

Minimal planting

Thoroughfare

Concrete path (1m)

Minimal planting

Contain asset, green space

No access

Grass and security fencing

Thoroughfare

Concrete path

No planting, predominantly concrete

Provide connection to natural reserve

No path

No planting, predominantly grass

Passive green space

No path

Remnant vegetation

Green space

Concrete path (1m)

Yes

Some canopy planting/some remnant vegetation

“Kick about”, Green space

All-weather path (concrete/granitic sand)(1.8m)

Thoroughfare

Concrete path

Yes

No/minimal vegetation; concrete path

Recreational opportunities; “key destination”

Multiple paths (Pathway network)

Yes

Highest order POS area; lots of facilities; bike parking; potential retail; irrigated areas; playgrounds

Service POS needs of Suburb

Multiple paths (Pathway network)

Yes

Second highest order POS area; shelters, bike parking, garden beds, irrigated lawns; ball play

Service local neighbourhood

Some concrete paths; some granitic sand

Small playground; shade trees; “kick about” areas

The qualities of the public open space typologies identified through this research project are further distilled in Table 2 above. These typologies build on modes of categorisation of public open space from various studies (Carmona 2010, 2018; Forsyth, Jacobson & Thering 2010; Mantey & Kepkowicz 2018; Western Australian Department of Sport and Recreation 2012). While there are some similarities in condition across each of these in-between typologies, there are defining features that vary between each of them. A conscious decision has been made to separate each of the public open space areas into these nine typologies to ensure an appropriate and thorough design response and adequate policy intervention. The rows highlighted in orange are those typologies which are investigated further through this design research compendium.

Varies

No playground development standards (CBPPP); nonirrigated grass, tall canopy shade trees

Varies

Features

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dway

Intended Function

nine typologies of “in-between”

“THOROUGHFARE” “AS S E T R E S E RV E ”

“ VAC A N T LOT ”

T Y P O LO GY_2 T Y P O LO GY_3

T Y P O LO GY_1

The below diagrams provide a visual snapshot of each of the different typologies. The series of photographs adjacent to each isometric site diagram provide a sense of the existing condition of each typology. The photographs attempt to capture the site qualities themselves. Each of these qualities have been considered in establishing the framework of typologies. In approaching policy from a design perspective, this analysis attempts to apply the techniques of site analysis to establish a framework from which policy can be formed, adapted and designed to respond to.

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T Y P O LO GY_6

“LARGE GREEN S PAC E”

T Y P O LO GY_7

“ROAD RESERVE”

“ N AT U R A L R E S E R V E CONNECTOR”

T Y P O LO GY_5 “ C O N C R E T E PAT H ”

T Y P O LO GY_4

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T Y P O LO GY_8 “LO CA L R E S E RV E”

T Y P O LO GY_9 “C U L- D E - S AC CONNECTOR”

Figure 6 Sketch of Typology 7 ‘Road Reserve’

59 Figure 7 Sketch of Typology 6 ‘Large Green Space’

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study typologies

The project draws focus on three of the nine identified “in-between” public open space typologies: the Asset Reserve (Typology 3), the Natural Reserve Connector (Typology 5) and the Thoroughfare (Typology 2). These three typologies have been selected as they contain a range of identified shortcomings that can also be found in the other nine typologies. The focus sites are useful test-sites for designing within the complex policy system.

“Asset Reserve” typology Containing Council owned or other public authority asset Fenced off, no access provided Identified as “open space” at either local or state level No vegetation

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“Thoroughfare” typology Similar to Type_1 (Vacant lot), with path Path usually concrete construction, extension of footpath Usually fenced - bollards or chainlink Predominantly grass, sparse vegetation Provide connection to between streets

SITE 01

gillespie easement T Y P O LO GY_3 “AS S E T R E S E RV E ”

SITE CONTEXT PLAN

Street Address: 36A & 36B Kurung Drive 128C & 128D Gillespie Road Suburb: Kings Park Council Property Number(s): 872085; 872093; 470104 (Part); 872069 Lot/Plan: Lot RES1 LP131247 Lot RES2 LP131247 Lot RES1 LP149264 Lot RES2 LP149264 Zone: Urban Floodway Zone (UFZ) Overlay(s): Development Contributions Plan Overlay - Schedule 2 (DCPO2) Special Building Overlay (SBO) Environmental Significance Overlay - Schedule 4 (ESO4)

Site Area: 7342m 2 CBPPP Category: Uncategorised “Open Space” VPA Category: Service & Utility Reserve Land Owner: Brimbank City Council Land Manager: Melbourne Water Description: Inaccessible open space area, fenced off and containing an open stormwater channel. North and south interface a road, while the eastern boundary abuts a government primary and secondary school, and the western boundary interfaces residential allotments.

Gillespie Easement is an inaccessible Council owned reserve containing an open channel stormwater drain managed by Melbourne Water. While entirely inaccessible, enclosed by a chain link fence, the site is recognised as ‘open space’ in Council’s and the VPA’s open space databases. Notably, it is also recognised as open space in open source maps (i.e. Google Maps, Bing Maps, OpenStreetMaps) as public open space. The easement is an example of the “Asset Reserve” Typology and has been selected for exploration throughout the remainder of this design research project. Intervention commences with site analysis to establish the site’s context and interfaces. Noting the project’s underpinnings in social cohesion, particular focus has been placed on connecting the site to the broader POS network and improving access to adjacent public and residential uses. A lack of policy, as is the case for most of the sites which fall into the “in-between” category, is the reason for the site’s current condition. POS policy in Brimbank currently does not address the site, and throughout this research project few other local, regional, state or federal policies are at play. Maintenance of the site is accordance with Melbourne Water policies and procedures, with grass-cutting carried out on a quarterly basis by Melbourne Water contractors (Melbourne Water 2019).

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OPPORTUNITIES

66 SITE PLAN (EXISTING)

Figure 8 Site analysis collage, site photographs by author.

Applying the design approach of landscape architectural practice to the proposed policy intervention in Typology 3, an analysis of the site’s existing condition at a human scale was undertaken. This is intended to understand how the site currently operates and how, if at all, it is used by the existing community. My enquiry into this site, in particular, was driven by the fact that it is recognised as “open space” at both a local and state level, despite being entirely inaccessible. Information of the site was limited, and comprehensive site analysis through available data and site visits was carried out. The intention of this investigation into site was to challenge typical approaches to the development of POS policy. While urban design frameworks and strategies are typically founded in an initial visual survey, through interrogating a particular occurrence of Typology 3 to understand how and why it exists (at least in this instance) is focused on working from the ground-up, from the perspective of a Landscape Architect.

Figure 9 Sketch of Typology 3 ‘Asset Reserve’

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Site sketches (Figure 9) inspired by the work of urban sketchers, such as Richard Briggs, allows the landscape architect to distill the site to its bare conditions, removing any distractions of site to refine those details which are defining features. In Gillespie Easement, the prevalence of chain link fencing is glaringly obvious. This fencing is remnant of past Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works (MMBW) policy from when the drainage easement was first designed and installed in 1982 (Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works 1982). Notably, the barbed wire component of the fencing was not part of the original design and was likely a later addition to further deter site access.

The site transect below intends to further capture and analyse the existing condition of the site. The transect runs north-south through the open channel. Key features of the current condition have been highlighted in each of the call-outs. These features are currently barriers to use of the site as a POS area, however, each represent unique opportunities for design responses and need to be considered in adapting appropriate policy for Typology 3.

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SITE 02

stephen calleja/ main road west reserve T Y P O LO GY_5 “ N AT U R A L R E S E R V E C O N N E C T O R ”

SITE CONTEXT PLAN

Street Address: 153A & 155 Opie Road 209 Opie Road Suburb: Albanvale Council Property Number(s): 708776; 708438; 707760 Lot/Plan: Lot RES1 LP149178 Lot 1329 LP149178 Lot 1356 LP149179 Zone(s): Neighbourhood Residential Zone - Schedule 1 (NRZ1) Public Park and Recreation Zone (PPRZ) Overlay(s): Development Contributions Plan Overlay - Schedule 2 (DCPO2) Land Subject to Inundation Overlay - Schedule 2 (LSIO2) Environmental Significance Overlay - Schedule 4 (ESO4)

Site Area: 2100m 2 (Main Road West Reserve) 1128m 2 (Stephen Calleja Reserve) CBPPP Category: Uncategorised “Open Space” VPA Category: Natural and Semi-natural Open Space Land Owner: Brimbank City Council Land Manager: Brimbank City Council Description: Two open allotments featuring a series of bollards and barriers at both the street interface and rear interface. Residential properties abut the north and south boundary of either site, while the Kororoit Creek natural reserve delineates the sites’ western boundary.

Two proximate sites for Typology 5 have been selected: the Main Road West Reserve and Stephen Calleja Reserve. These two sites are approximately 400 metres apart and separated by a row of low density residential properties. They are connected by the Kororoit Creek reserve to the west, which also separates the municipalities of Brimbank and Melton. These two sites were chosen because of their proximity to each other as well as being two separate examples of the “Natural Reserve Connector” typology. The Main Road West Reserve is identified as a road easement in available title and cadastral information (Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning 2019). However, on both Council’s and the VPA’s databases, the site is earmarked as openspace. The site does not feature any bollards at its street interface, however contains a number of bollards at the rear (Kororoit Creek interface). Stephen Calleja Reserve, on the other hand, comprises two residential lots and is identified by signage. Timber bollards delineate the site from the pedestrian footpath along Opie Road. As with Main Road West Reserve, a row of bollards separates the open space area from the Kororoit Creek. As with Site 01, a lack of adequate policy is responsible for the sparseness of these two open space areas. While identified as open space, no policy intervention has facilitated their improvement or use by local residents.

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OPPORTUNITIES

Figure 10 Site analysis collage, site photographs by author.

Observations of and experience in site revealed how the open space area is currently being used by the local community. The site presents to the street as a vacant lot, and the lack of formal paths or intervention is uninviting to passersby. While on site, however, it was observed that local residents would pass through both the Main Road West Reserve and Stephen Calleja Reserve to access the informal walking path along the Kororoit Creek at the rear. Adjacent residential properties feature fencing along the shared boundary, and any interaction between the site and its adjacent uses appears absent. Bollards at the rear of the site further discourage site access, requiring pedestrians to navigate the overgrown grass and obstacles when trying to access the natural reserve. Evidence of dumping was also observed on site, further emphasising the local community’s disengagement with the current provision of open space. A number of opportunities exist within the open space area, however a lack of policy intervention has prevented the site from being formalised as a true open space asset.

Figure 11 Sketch of Typology 5 ‘Natural Reserve Connector’

Figure 12 Site analysis collage, site photographs by author.

Similarly, Stephen Calleja Reserve also demonstrates municipal disinvestment, left as a vacant lot. Unlike the Main Road West Easement, however, Stephen Calleja Reserve features a bollard and chain fence along its street interface. Signage has been used to identify the site, however the signage offers no other information about the site and adds little value. Pedestrians were also observed traversing the site, through the grass, to access the dirt path along the Kororoit Creek Reserve. Once again, a lack of formal intervention in the space has resulted in it being left to stagnate, with no use or appreciation by the community. Any passerby or visitor to the neighbourhood who is unfamiliar with the site would be hesitant to enter.

Figure 13 Sketch of Typology 5 ‘Natural Reserve Connector’

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These are all valid and important considerations in developing an appropriate policy response to Typology 5. Natural Reserve Connectors should invite and facilitate movement through the site, access from adjacent properties and provide further insight, improving access to and appreciation for the broader park network.

M A I N R OA D W E ST R E S E RV E S I T E P L A N ( E X I ST I N G )

Existing site conditions are shown in the plans below. As can be seen, the sites are sparse of vegetation, paths, seating or any amenity. Substantial remnant vegetation exists along the the Kororoit Creek’s edge. Both sites feature a downslope toward the creek, although the topography is much steeper in the Main Road West Reserve. The

street transect along Opie Road demonstrates the pattern of residential development surrounding the sites and provides an insight into the experience of the pedestrian moving between the sites along the street footpaths.

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STEPHEN CALLEJA RESERVE SITE PLAN (EXISTING)

SITE 03

ibis grove reserve T Y P O LO GY_2 “THOROUGHFARE”

SITE CONTEXT PLAN

CBPPP Category: Not recognised

Council Property Number(s): 884940

VPA Category: Recreation Corridor - Local Link

Lot/Plan: Lot RES1 PS428873

Land Owner: Brimbank City Council

Zone(s): Neighbourhood Residential Zone - Schedule 1 (NRZ1)

Land Manager: Brimbank City Council

Overlay(s): Development Contributions Plan Overlay - Schedule 2 (DCPO2) Development Plan Overlay Schedule 6 (DPO6)

Description: Small open space area providing pedestrian connection between road network, residential interfaces to the north and south. Car parking space provided along eastern frontage.

The third site selected is Ibis Grove Reserve, an example of the ‘Thoroughfare’ Typology (Typology 2). At a municipal level, Ibis Grove Reserve is not recognised as open space at all. However, at a state level and according to the VPA’s open space database, the site is a ‘recreation corridor - local link’. The site is known as Lot RES1 PS428873, indicating it was created as a reserve as part of the original subdivision (most likely open space contributions by the developer, as ownership is with Council). Given that the site is not recognised as part of the open space network at a local government level, it is safe to assume that it has not undergone any improvements or capital works since the original subdivision of this part of Cairnlea (c.2000). This typology, however, is not unique to the Cairnlea area and is observable across the municipality. A key constraint with this site, as an “in-between” site, is again the fundamental lack of policy guidance for the continual management and improvement of the site. Evidence of community intervention exists on site with some planting along the residential interface to the north and south, however, the site features little else but a narrow concrete path, a singular bench, bollarding and two car spaces.

Suburb: Cairnlea

Site Area: 536m 2

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Street Address: 24A Cormorant Drive

Applying the lens of the landscape architect to Typology 2, one must commence with a detailed site analysis of the existing site condition (Lewis, McGann & Blomkamp 2020). Initial site observations demonstrate the disregard for the role that this POS has in the broader open space network, acting purely as a thoroughfare for moving between street (in this case, between Cormorant Drive and Ibis Grove). This is exacerbated by the provision of parking spaces at the Ibis Grove interface of the site. The path which transects the site is installed as a matter of convenience for providing pedestrian connection between the broader footpath network. The singular park bench offers no outlook or choice and provides little opportunity for the local community to productively use the space (Whyte 1988). As described by Gehl (2011) intervention in site need not prescribe any particular activity, however should enable equitable access for the community to engage with site.

Figure 14 Sketch of Typology 2 ‘Thoroughfare’

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Barriers which exist in site currently preventing the adaption of space and temporary claim, I argue, are the inactive frontages and high residential fencing which prevent any dialogue between the public and private realm, the narrow footpath and lack of “break-out” space, and the isolated park bench. The overgrown and sparse vegetation further emphasises disinvestment in the site, which, in turn, deters use of the site.

The transect below (Section AA) indicates the site’s position within the urban fabric. The site sits within an established low-density residential neighbourhood, featuring a mix of single and double storey dwellings. Section BB depicts the site’s west-east elevation. Notably there is very little in the way of opportunities for engagement with site, and beyond the existing footpath and park bench the site acts as a vacant lot. Opportunities exist for engaging with both the site’s street interfaces and residential interfaces, in order to open up the space and invite public use.

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opportunities in existing policy

POLICY LEVEL

Objective 4 Protect and enhance natural ecosystems.

Objective 11 Improve the quality of the public domain.

Objective 11 Enhance access to cultural, sporting and recreational activity.

Objective 13 Encourage participation and engagement with stakeholders.

1.1.2 b Use the area’s topography, slope and contours to achieve an accessible movement network.

1.5.2 b Provide for a variety of parks and public spaces, for informal and active recreation.

1.5.2 c Local public spaces where they can be connected to their surrounding area via pedestrian priority streets and paths.

1.5.3 b Create public spaces of sufficient size to accommodate desired activities.

2.3.3 c Where borded by fences, arra bicycle paths with opportuniti surveillance from adjacent pro

3.1.1 b Locate entry paths with clear views to other exits form the public space.

3.1.1 c Continue pedestrian paths through the public space with direct, logical routes.

3.1.2 b Locate features towards the centre of the public space to draw people into and through the space.

3.1.3 c Use the edge of public space for informal seating.

3.1.3 d Define the boundary or transition between public space and private space without the need for high fences or barriers.

3.1.7 d Provide permeable ground surfaces, where possible, for absorption of rainwater and reduction of stormwater run-off.

3.3.1 b Provide at least two main pedestrian through-paths across a local park, linked directly to the surrounding pedestrian network.

3.3.3 b Provide seats at the entry points of local parks.

3.4.2 a Include a place where adults and children can gather and socialise.

3.4.2 b Provide seats and tables to cater for large gatherings of people.

Policy 4.6.1 Create diverse opportunities for communities to partiicpate in planning.

Policy 5.4.1 Develop a network of accessible, high-quality, local open spaces.

Policy 5.4.2 Support community gardens and productive streetscapes.

Principle 5 Deliver a network of open spa neighbourhood, community, d regional parks) that provide fo functions and differing levels o

Objective 3.1 Complete gaps in the Kororoit Creek Trail to create a continuous shared use trail.

Objective 3.2 Establish a series of park nodes along the Kororoit Creek corridor to provide a diverse range of connected recreational experiences.

Objective 3.11 Develop connections, particularly trail links, between the creek corridor and adjoining residential areas and community ‘attractors’.

Clause 21.11-3 Strategy 1.3 Encourage the extension of the open space corridor along the length of the Kororoit Creek.

Clause 21.11-3 Strategy 2.4 Ensure lighting is provided to all paths, amenities and playground facilities.

Support community led food growing opportunities on publicly owned vacant land.

Federal

State

Metropolitan

Regional

Local

THEME

The ‘Strategic Landscape’ diagram in Section 02 of this document identified the current policies from all levels of government that are intended to shape public open space areas across the municipality. Having identified a number of gaps in current statutory/strategic frameworks, this research intends to unpack those gaps and interrogate how the landscape architect can add value to improving POS through design. Prior to commencing design in site, this diagram intends to identify opportunities which exist in current policy but are not being effectively implemented in the nine project Typologies. In addition to the design interventions to be tested in site, these objectives and strategies are also considered and engaged with. Ultimately, incorporating these policy directions with siteresponsive design testing, the project aims to improve policy implementation and POS outcomes through the Creating Better Parks Policy and Plan.

3.1.1 a Connect the public space to the surrounding pedestrian network.

ange pedestrian or ies for informal operties.

3.1.5 c Locate seating to provide users with an interesting outlook and views of the space and opportunity to watch passers-by.

3.1.5 d In larger public spaces, install signs with maps to show connections and destinations, location of public facilities, and estimated walking time and distances.

ace types (pocket, district, municipal and or a range of uses, of amenity.

3.3.2 Programs, activities, facilities and resources will be planned and delivered to meet the needs of a diverse community. This includes diversity of language, religion, ethnicity, gender, socio-economic status, geographic location, sexuality, ability and age.

3.1.1 Programs will be developed in response to identified community needs and priorities and will be affordable to all people in the community.

Management

Network

Safety

Access

Social Cohesion

Signage

Lighting

Vegetation

Community

Public Space

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Goal 1 Maximise urban greening.

Goal 2 Improve quality and functionality of green space. Ensure well-designed green open space for all communities.

design iteration

T Y P O LO GY 3 GILLESPIE EASEMENT

Developing on the site plans prepared of Gillespie Easement, this iterative design proposal intends to interrogate the opportunities for intervention within the site. As previously discussed, there are policy objectives and guidelines across various government levels and agencies, however their implementation within the in-between public open spaces of Brimbank is lacking. This is partly due to the POS policy - Creating Better Parks Policy and Plan - not recognising or providing direction as to the improvement or management of these sites. Using Gillespie Easement as the initial testing site for the design intervention in Typology 3, a landscape design response has been prepared from which a suite of policy objectives have been developed. These policy objectives are guided by a direct response to the morphological condition of this instance of Typology 3 as well as in interpretation of the policies outlined in the ‘Opportunities in Existing Policies’ diagram (pp. 84-85). Importantly, in engaging with policy as a design technique for the revitalisation of in-between public open spaces it must be acknowledged that this plan is not intended to be the end goal - rather, this plan is the first step in an iterative design and policy dialogue which will be explored and interrogated further throughout this document. Furthermore, in developing a design response, a conscious effort has been made to consider mechanisms for engaging with the local community in fostering a stronger sense of social cohesion (Abass, Andrews & Tucker 2020; Aelbrecht, Stevens & Nisha 2019; Corner 2006; Forsyth & Musacchio 2005; Francis, Giles-Corti, Wood & Knuiman 2012; Lyndon & Garcia 2015).

P r e l i m i n a r y Ty p o l o g y 3 P o l i c y G u i d e l i n e s

Incorporate low-cost, lowmaintenance, tactile and accessible play spaces for children of all ages and abilities. Enable and encourage access from community facilities which interface POS areas. Remove and avoid unattractive security fencing to publicly owned and managed land. Facilitate and encourage direct access from residential properties to public open space areas. Provide adaptable sheltered areas for public use. Encourage adaptive use and appropriation, through provision of facilities which enable gathering. Articulate public open space entrances through planting of canopy trees at edges of street interfaces.

Provide diverse opportunities for seating. Soften edges of infrastructure through planting and mixed materials/finishes providing aesthetic, functional and informal play opportunities. Use a mixture of surface/ground treatments including; concrete, grass, granitic sand, crushed rock. Prioritise permeable surface treatments.

Provide opportunities for formal and/ or informal pedestrian connections across infrastructure and other built obstacles/barriers to pedestrian flow.

Install signage at entrances, along paths and adjacent to landmarks/ unique features to aid with wayfinding, place identification and information.

Incorporate paths of various widths, with at least one (1) shared path (minimum 3.5-metre-wide) for pedestrian and cyclist through traffic.

Where appropriate, incorporate WSUD techniques to retrofit infrastructure, providing for productive, multi-purpose systems.

Create ‘soft’ edges to public open space areas to delineate public open space from movement network. Avoid planting of medium-height vegetation to maintain views into open space area.

Ensure lighting is provided to all paths, amenities and playground facilities.

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Widen existing footpaths at entrances of asset reserves to create a distinct sense of entry-point and invite pedestrian access.

The above diagram attempts to “deconstruct” the layers of intervention to better understand the relationship between site intervention and policy themes. Through this deconstruction, each design technique can be observed in isolation. This isolation of particular elements aids with considering the design response as a policy response to a particular typology (in this instance, Typology 2) rather than being explicitly tied to the site itself. In other words, in distancing the design response from the site condition, key elements useful for designing effective policy interventions can be established.

Site elevations of the iterative design response intend to capture how the community might engage with the typology following the intervention. In the policy and design cycle, this observation of how spaces are adapted and used is vital. The design response is intended to address current gaps in the POS network, with a particular focus on community and engaging civility. Importantly, the design responses

are not meant to be prescriptive, rather adaptable environments that are capable of being appropriated by social groups. Through applying design thinking, these instances of autonomous expression within space should be observed and addressed in future iterations of the typological design response, through adaptive and responsive policy interventions. Through design, and illustration, one can begin to visualise how the space might be used and respond accordingly, prior to the physical implementation of any site response.

Incorporate paths of various widths, with at least one (1) shared path (minimum 3.5-metre-wide) for pedestrian and cyclist through traffic.

Enable and encourage access from community facilities which interface POS areas. Facilitate and encourage direct access from residential properties to public open space areas.

Soften edges of infrastructure through planting and mixed materials/finishes providing aesthetic, functional and informal play opportunities.

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Widen existing footpaths at entrances of asset reserves to create a distinct sense of entry-point and invite pedestrian access.

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T Y P O LO GY 5 MAIN ROAD WEST RESERVE/ STEPHEN CALLEJA RESERVE

As with the previous typology, design commences in site responding to existing conditions and observed adaption of the space by the community. Landscape architectural principles are applied in site to test different arrangements of space, and from there preliminary policy guidelines are formulated. Whereas under typical policymaking frameworks the process begins with set objectives, principles and guidelines which are then applied to sites, here the project implements design responses and then forms policy directions from there. The design response intends to recognise Typology 5’s role in the natural reserve corridor that runs along the Kororoit Creek. In acknowledging this, these spaces become transitional and connective POS areas that invite the community to observe and engage with the natural environment. Design interventions in site include protecting remnant vegetation along the creek edge, utilising and expanding existing infrastructure and path networks, facilitating direct access from adjacent residential properties and programming the space in such a way that enables a range of uses and users. Through visualising the design intention in plan, landscape architects can aid with interpreting and comprehending the intended built-form outcomes of policy. Again, it is important to also note that there are funding and management constraints that apply to these sites - as with all lower order POS - given that their intended catchment is modest and Council resources are finite. That being said, careful and considered intervention can have a powerful impact on improving the quality of these spaces, enabling greater use by the local community, and in turn, facilitating civility.

P r e l i m i n a r y Ty p o l o g y 5 P o l i c y G u i d e l i n e s

Install signage at entrances, along paths and adjacent to landmarks/ unique features to aid with wayfinding, place identification and information.

Soften interface with adjacent residential allotments through the planting of low-maintenance vegetation.

Integrate path network with existing footpaths, inviting passersby to enter and pass through the site.

Encourage planting of canopy trees along shared paths to provide shade and enhance bio-links with adjacent natural reserve areas.

Retain existing/remnant vegetation, ensuring design responds to and enhances these areas of rich biodiversity.

Provide opportunities for pedestrian connections across open space areas. Encourage use of permeable finishes on these secondary paths.

Incorporate low-cost, lowmaintenance, tactile and accessible play spaces for children of all ages and abilities.

Facilitate and encourage direct access from residential properties to public open space areas. Create ‘soft’ edges to public open space areas to delineate public open space from movement network. Avoid planting of medium-height vegetation to maintain views into open space area. Provide diverse opportunities for seating.

Engage with local residents through the provision of appropriate areas for community-driven “urban farming” / community garden.

Maintain open areas (either grass or granitic sand) for casual play/sport. Integrate these areas with the broader site.

Provide adaptable sheltered areas for public use. Encourage adaptive use and appropriation, through provision of facilities which enable gathering.

Provide formalised shared path along natural reserve, connecting to POS areas. Shared paths should be a minimum 2.5 m wide.

Widen existing footpaths at entrances of natural reserve connectors to create a distinct sense of entry-point and invite pedestrian access.

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Facilitate connection to natural reserve, through provision of viewing platforms, or similar, where appropriate.

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3 15

A secondary benefit of these section drawings is as a conversation starter for engagement with the community. Oftentimes, as is the case within the CBPPP and policies interrogated throughout this research, policy objectives can be broad and difficult to imagine in site. Through commencing with design of the POS and then generating policy directions from there, the landscape architect can engage in productive conversation with relevant stakeholders, supported by visual cues.

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Through these sections of the preliminary design proposal, observations of how the space may be used by the community can be made. Through these site sections the landscape architect is able to speculate on further opportunities and constraints, observing how the policy interventions may play out is space. The intention of this is to visualise and gain knowledge on how the policy can be further developed to improve outcomes within the typology.

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T Y P O LO GY 2 IBIS GROVE RESERVE

As with the previous two typologies, the iterative design response in Ibis Grove Reserve responds to its condition as Typology 2. An in-between POS currently used for the sole purpose of providing connection between two street footpaths. In considering the design for this Typology, it was important to keep in mind the hierarchy of the wider municipal public open space network. There is an opportunity, however, to adapt existing infrastructure within the site to better address the needs of the local community. Engaging with site observation through the site visits carried out across this research project, interventions such as the basketball hoop are intended to respond directly to instances where the community have physically adapted POS to address gaps. Rather than having the site remain stagnant as a thoroughfare, small design interventions have the opportunity to turn the POS area into a productive community pocket park. Considering the site from a design perspective and responding to opportunities and constraints which emerge from site analysis, the landscape architect is able to inform policy through design. Maintaining existing infrastructure such as the footpath and widening it to improve accessibility facilitates a broader range of uses for the site. Implementing lighting and signage within the site also increases perceived safety as well as legibility of the site and its role within the broader POS network.

P r e l i m i n a r y Ty p o l o g y 2 P o l i c y G u i d e l i n e s

Adapt existing infrastructure, incorporating responsive improvements intended to improve pedestrian flow and comfort. Facilitate choice in movement. Incorporate lower-order paths, constructed of permeable material (such as, granitic sand). Remove and avoid unattractive security bollards to publicly owned and managed land. Incorporate paths of various widths, with at least one (1) shared path (minimum 2-metre-wide) for pedestrian and cyclist through traffic. Consider existing services/utility access points and design around them. Soften appearance (without obscuring) through planting and responsive design. Articulate public open space entrances through planting of canopy trees at edges of street interfaces.

Provide diverse opportunities for seating. Use a mixture of surface/ground treatments including; concrete, grass, granitic sand, crushed rock. Prioritise permeable surface treatments. Engage with local residents through the provision of appropriate areas for community-driven “urban farming” / community garden.

101

Retain existing established vegetation/ planting.

Install signage at entrances, along paths and adjacent to landmarks/ unique features to aid with wayfinding, place identification and information.

Repurpose existing site features. For example, retrofitting car parking space to basketball hoop. Facilitate “kickabout” role of local reserves.

Retain existing facilities where appropriate, ensuring design responds and adapts to the existing built form.

Create ‘soft’ edges to public open space areas to delineate public open space from movement network. Avoid planting of medium-height vegetation to maintain views into open space area.

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Widen existing footpaths at entrances of thoroughfares to create a distinct sense of entry-point and invite pedestrian access.

102

Deconstructing the layers of the design intervention allows the landscape architect to distill the key themes through which they are engaging with site to further understand the components which make up the overall intervention. From here we can begin to interrogate how each of the design interventions can be articulated and abstracted. Separating the design from the site itself and evaluating the themes, it becomes easier to synthesise the elements of the design response to then develop an appropriate statutory response. These ‘layers of intervention’ are not fixed design components, but part of a broader strategic framework that can be interpreted and reinterpreted across instances of Typology 2 throughout the municipality.

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103

104

These site sections and detail sections intend to further explore how the design response may be realised in site. Indicating how the community might use the space and contrasting this against the formulated policy guidelines, one can begin to evaluate the efficacy of the intervention. This critical evaluation of the policy through the process of design is something which is apparently lacking in current approaches to POS policy. Through design, the landscape architect is able to evaluate the site and proposed policy responses, prior to any actual site works. This is part of the iterative and reciprocal design approach to policy explored throughout this research.

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106

from design to policy ...to design

DESIGN “PROTOTYPE”

COMMENCE DESIGN

E S TA B L I S H P O L I C Y OBJECTIVES/DESIGN GUIDELINES

IDENTIFY SITE #2

DRAFT INTO POLICY

Returning to the design and policy diagram introduced in Section 2, the below diagram further unpacks the process of iteration. The preceding design responses to the three focus typologies lay the initial foundation from which to interpret and extract policy directions. Once this has been implemented in site, a review of how the community uses the space ought to be undertaken. This should be further refined through a cooperative stakeholder engagement process. From this consultation and site observation, the policy is reviewed and retested in the next instance of the identified typology, and the cycle continues. This iterative approach to policy through design is intended to interrogate the agency of landscape architecture and the privilege which the landscape architect can offer in the policymaking sphere. The process is complex and its boundaries are difficult to define. Ultimately, the goal of applying this design thinking to policy is to strengthen the engagement with community and space to better understand how to formalise mechanisms for strengthening social cohesion within those in-between POS areas across the Australian suburb.

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C O N S U LT

REVISIT & REVIEW POLICY FO R T Y P O LO GY BAS E D O N FINDINGS

REVIEW

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IMPLEMENT

108

T Y P O LO GY 3 - G I L L ES P I E E AS E M E N T EXISTING CONDITION

DESIGN RESPONSE & P O L I CY

INITIAL DESIGN RESPONSE

Formal

design & policy cycle

I N C O R P O R AT E & A D A P T F E AT U R E S O B S E R V E D ACROS S P OS

P O L I CY R E V I E W

Informal

REVIEW AND RESPOND TO C O M M U N I T Y U S E O F T Y P O LO GY

How does the design and policy cycle look in action? The following pages attempt to capture the design and policy cycle as applied to the three study typologies. The iterative and reciprocal nature of the cycle is captured through an initial design response. This design response is then translated into policy and applied to site, taking into account observations made across the wider POS network. Once this policy has been applied to site and use of the site commences, the landscape architect can observe, review and respond to emerging patterns of use.

Initial Iteration

These diagrams are speculative and conceptual. They are intended to demonstrate and explore the potential for design to influence policy. Speculations have been made as to how the community might use the space following the design intervention and what amendments might be useful when applying the design guidelines to other instances of the typology.

Adaptive Design

T Y P O LO GY 3 - OA K WO O D R OA D E AS E M E N T EXISTING CONDITION

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DESIGN RESPONSE

SECONDARY DESIGN RESPONSE

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T Y P O LO GY 5 - M A I N R OA D W EST R ES E RV E EXISTING CONDITION

DESIGN RESPONSE

INITIAL DESIGN RESPONSE

Formal

I N C O R P O R AT E & A D A P T F E AT U R E S O B S E R V E D ACROS S P OS

P O L I CY R E V I E W

Informal

REVIEW AND RESPOND TO C O M M U N I T Y U S E O F T Y P O LO GY

Initial Iteration

Adaptive Design

T Y P O L O GY 5 - K I N G D O M AV E N U E R E S E R V E EXISTING CONDITION

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DESIGN RESPONSE

SECONDARY DESIGN RESPONSE

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T Y P O LO GY 2 - I B I S G R OV E R ES E RV E EXISTING CONDITION

DESIGN RESPONSE & P O L I CY

INITIAL DESIGN RESPONSE

Informal

I N C O R P O R AT E & A D A P T F E AT U R E S O B S E R V E D ACROS S P OS

P O L I CY R E V I E W

Informal

REVIEW AND RESPOND TO C O M M U N I T Y U S E O F T Y P O LO GY

Initial Iteration

Adaptive Design

T Y P O LO GY 2 - C H O R L E Y P L AC E R ES E RV E EXISTING CONDITION

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DESIGN RESPONSE

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reflection

“Rather than formulating a plan that sits distinct from practical application, it is in the testing and iteration that the plan truly comes to life. Policy, in this sense, can no longer be seen in its own right, but only makes sense when seen in relation to context, practical outlook and consequences and will inherently build questions of implementation and systemic implication into the processes of planning and development.” (Bason 2014, p. 69)

I set out on this research project with the intention of interrogating the relationship between landscape architecture (design) and policy. The project has been guided by two questions, specifically: 1.

How can policy be used as a tool for landscape architecture in the design of suburban public open space?

What insight and privilege can the landscape architect offer in the design of policy and policy as a design technique within the context of suburban “in-between” public open spaces?

Throughout the project, the complexity of the relationship between design and policy increasingly grew as different ideas were explored and unpacked. The foundations of this research are grounded in the concepts of tactical urbanism and bottom-up modes of urban intervention. Through this lens, design research has been carried out to explore how policy can fill the gaps within the current public open space network, particularly in the Brimbank Local Government Area. On social cohesion, the research has been guided by a desire to adapt in-between public open space areas to better serve the local community and appeal to a diversity of uses and users. When considering the theme of civility in the design of public open space, not only is the community’s participation in the design of the policy itself important, but also the ability for these public spaces to become a platform through which the community can express autonomy and the opportunity for encounter is garnered (Francis 2012; Hoskyns 2014).

Through formalising the intentions of informal urbanism (i.e. community appropriation of space) into policy, the project has attempted to aid with legitimising the community’s sense of ownership in otherwise barren “in-between” public open spaces (Berglund 2019). All this being said, what has become clear throughout this research and within my mind, is that the process of policymaking and policy can - and should - be considered design. While my initial position was that policy and design are disparate fields operating in concert but separate from each other, at the conclusion of this research this position has developed. Policy is design.

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conclusion

Suburban Civility is an exploration into the relationship between landscape architecture and policy. Through analysis of the existing statutory frameworks which govern public open space provision and design, the project applies design research methods to address gaps in the existing network of public open space. Commencing from site and working from the ground-up the project demonstrates the capacity for the landscape architect to value-add in the policymaking process. The municipality of Brimbank acts as a testing ground for the landscape architectural enquiry - this is not a site specific project. This landscape architectural project is not intended to have a set designed outcome, rather the project is about exploring the intangibility of policy through the act of design. The site response designs presented are iterative, they are transient and not the end product. Design enables visualisation of policy objectives and how they function in site in order to evaluate their efficacy prior to their actual implementation.

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This is a project of research through design. It builds on the interdisciplinary nature of the field of landscape architecture to uncover, extract and query the agency of landscape design in landscape policy. Civility has been integrated as a theme throughout the project, responding to existing instances of appropriation of space as well as through speculating how policy might be translated into built outcomes and then used by the community. There is great opportunity for strengthening the reciprocity between policy and design in addressing inefficiencies in the provision of public open space in the contemporary suburb.

APPENDIC

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CES

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interviews

STEPHEN MINTERN & SIMON ROBINSON MANAGING DIRECTORS @ OFFICE

Date:

06 August 2020

Time:

13:30

Location:

Remote - Microsoft Teams

Purpose:

Discuss relationship between public space, politics, policy and tactical/ guerrilla urbanism.

During my meeting with Steve and Simon, we discussed a number of matters ranging from the role of politics within public space and the city more broadly. The purpose of the meeting was for me to better understand their view and position in relation to the urban fabric and the role that they see both landscape architects and architects playing in its design. We spoke deeply in regard to the history of city planning in Melbourne, and the power and ability for space/place to discriminate against minority groups. This interview was held in the very early days of this design research project and was extremely useful in helping to define the position of my project. At this stage of the project, however, my focus was on how politics operate within public space and the role that the community can play - with landscape architect as mediator in annexing, appropriating and reclaiming space within the city. Following this interview, my project developed to focus more specifically on policy. Nevertheless, the underlying ambition to interrogate the role of the landscape architect in designing public open spaces that enable and facilitate social cohesion - through mechanisms including the appropriation of space has remained a strong focus of mine. I am very grateful for the time which Steve and Simon donated to discuss my project, and for the formative conversation we had.

A D R I A N G R AY MANAGER URBAN DESIGN @ BRIMBANK CITY COUNCIL

11:30

Location:

Brimbank City Council 301 Hampshire Road Sunshine VIC 3020

Purpose:

Discuss role of landscape architecture in current public open space policy.

I met with Adrian Gray, Manager Urban Design, at the City of Brimbank to discuss the current approach to public open space policy at the municipality. During our meeting, Adrian took me through the current statutory and strategic landscape, and structure of the urban design department within Brimbank. A presentation of the Creating Better Parks Policy and Plan and achievements to date was also provided. Following the presentation, we went on a walk around the Sunshine NEIC to look at some of the park and street upgrades that have been undertaken within the city. Adrian provided a lot of useful insights into the processes involved with the park upgrades as well as obstacles faced by the municipality in achieving desired outcomes. It was apparent that there are a number of stakeholders - both public organizations and government agencies as well as private developers and investors - involved in achieving public open space outcomes. Sunvale Community Park, an AILA award winning park, was one of the destinations throughout the tour. Adrian also showed me along the Hampshire Road street upgrade project as well as Lynch Gardens. The discussion and tour was very useful in framing my project, particularly throughout Project B. It was evident through this interview/meeting that while there is a phenomenal effort going into upgrading parks around activity centres, further work needs to be done and greater focus needs to be placed on open spaces within the surrounding suburban areas.

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Time:

10 February 2021

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Date:

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precedent design projects POLICY AS DESIGN TOOL Future Ground - Policy as Design (PaD) Location:New Orleans, Louisiana USA Project Designer: PaD Client: Van Alen Institute Design Competition Aim:Rethink Vacant Land Reuse Design Techniques: • Collaborative Policy Intervention • Look at vacant land at a regional scale • Create new visions for low density (Van Alen Institute 2016)

P O L I CY F R A M E WO R K FO R P U B L I C S PAC E UCLG Public Space Policy Framework

Location: International Inter-governmental Policy Design Intervention Project Team: United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) Client: Various Local Governments Aim:Respond to Sustainable Development Goals to establish a framework for localized city-wide public space development through policy. Design Techniques: • Inter-governmental engagement sessions to develop framework • Conceptual framework guided by Economic, Social, Environmental and Cultural considerations. (United Cities and Local Governments 2016)

C O M M U N I T Y L E D P U B L I C S PAC E D E S I G N San Jose Guerrero Park

Project Designer: Ground Play; Shift Design Studio, SF Planning, Leah Tumerman

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Location: San Francisco, California

Design Techniques: • Pavements to Parks • Low maintenance materials and drought tolerant plantings • Repurpose existing space • Community-led (Rudick 2016)

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Aim: Close off a portion of an intersection between two roads to increase safety and provide local residents, particularly children, a place to play.

Client: City of San Francisco

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D E M O C R ACY I N P U B L I C S PAC E Te m p e l h o f e r F e l d

Location: Berlin, Germany Former Tempelhof Airport Project Designer: Various / Gruen Berlin Group Client: City of Berlin Aim: Repurpose the disused Tempehlhof Airport following its closure in 2008. Key Design Techniques: • Citizen Participation/Community Engagement • Programming of Space Provide for and Protect Habitats • (Gruen Berlin n.d.)

The site is protected and governed by a statute, Gesetz zum Erhalt des Tempelhofer Feldes (ThFG), prescribing protective goals and preservation objectives. The statute requires a land use register (cadastre) to be kept. The cadastre details the programming of spaces across the open space area, and requires that disused areas are unsealed and returned to green space (Gruen Berlin n.d.). The purpose of the ThFG is to protect the site from inappropriate use and development. The statute establishes the site’s significance for Berlin and the broader region - recognising its role in natural ecosystems, its uniqueness and beauty within the landscape, recreational benefits and the cultural and historical significance of the site. Key sections of the statute relate to: 1_ Protection of partial/specific areas 2_ The rights and responsibilities of the state of Berlin 3_ Permitted uses 4_ Uses requiring permission 5_ Prohibited uses

PROGRAMMING Public Park in Tlalnepantla

Location: Tlalnepantla de Baz, Mexico

Key Design Techniques: Rehabilitate disused space. • • Respond to site topography/condition. • Flexible, easily maintained design and materiality. (Productora 2018)

Aim: Rehabilitate large open median strip to serve the local residents of housing developments.

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Client: Instituto del Fondo Nacional de la Vivienda (INFONAVIT)

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Project Designer: PRODUCTORA Architects

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design testing

The following images represent the design testing process carried out through this research project. The design tests were guided by key verbs that informed the design response. These verbs were selected with the idea of civility and social cohesion in mind. They are intended to be iterative and demonstrate the analysis and testing which each site has undergone in developing the design response from which the policy intervention has been generated. These are hand drawn sketches, scanned and digitised. Annotations on each drawing further explain the design intention. ‘Mend’ was the verb which guided most of these designs, as the verb is broad and can be interpreted in a number of ways.

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GILLESPIE EASEMENT

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MAIN ROAD WEST RESERVE/ STEPHEN CALLEJA RESERVE

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IBIS GROVE RESERVE

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ACKNOW LEDG MENT

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Suburban Civility respectfully acknowledges and recognises the Kulin Nation including the Wurundjeri, Bunurong and Boon Wurrung Peoples as the Traditional Owners of the land on which the City of Brimbank is situated and pays respect to their Elders past, present and future.

Firstly, I would like to thank my Project B tutor, Adam Gardner, for encouraging me to continue to pursue, interrogate and push the boundaries of traditional discourse in landscape architecture. Thank you for your encouragement throughout the semester, for your guidance, ideas and generosity in supporting my research project.

I must also thank the teaching team, faculty members and industry professionals who dedicated their time and knowledge throughout the year to question, unpack and push the project further. Your input was amazing and a great help in filling the gaps in the research. Finally, I’d like to thank my colleagues, friends and family who have been incredibly supportive throughout my degree. Thank you Clinton, Claudia, mum, dad, Laura, Daniele and Maggie for putting up with me, believing in me and encouraging me to do my best. I am forever grateful for your unconditional love and support.

To Adrian Gray, Manager Urban Design at City of Brimbank, I would like to thank you for generosity in dedicating your time to meet with me, showing me around Sunshine and for your insight into the existing (and incredible) work that the urban design team at Brimbank are undertaking. Thank you also to Stephen Mintern and Simon Robinson (OFFICE) for meeting with me at the inception of this project to discuss the relationship between policy and public space. Your seminars throughout my degree were incredibly insightful and a true inspiration for this project.

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A very big thank you also to Jen Lynch, for your knowledge, support and encouragement in establishing my project, particularly throughout Project A. Without your guidance, I would not have been able to push myself to deepen and broaden my research. Thank you for your encouragement and for your invaluable insight and assistance in furthering the project, as well as introducing me to Adrian Gray.

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WGTS

Completing this Design Research Compendium would not have been possible without the immense support and guidance of my tutors, colleagues, friends and family.

REFE ENCE

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ERES

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