Panel Discussion: Does public space really belong to everyone?

Join us for an exciting discussion on public space issues in Vancouver. Part of the Vancouver Public Library’s Speak Up 2006 series, this evening’s panel dialogue is the first of two presentations entitled Public Space: Does it Really Belong to Everyone. The Vancouver Public Space Network is proud to be participating in both discussions.

Here’s how the VPL is billing the discussion:

“Great cities are renowned for their public spaces. Vancouver is described as one of the most beautiful and best-planned cities in the world.”

This evening’s panel discussion “explores the nature of our public spaces and their relationship to democracy. Are our public spaces increasing or decreasing? What are the important public spaces in Vancouver? Are the private spaces of shopping malls now our most popular gathering spaces? Do public spaces always have to be public squares? What are the trends in public space development in Vancouver and world-wide? What is the impact of “naming opportunities” for our public spaces? What is the relationship between public spaces and democracy?” The panel discussion features urban designer Bruce Haden, architect Bing Thom and VPSN co-founder Andrew Pask. The event takes place at the Central Library (350 Georgia Street) .

For more information (and some excellent public space resources) visit the library’s Speak Up Webpages.