Importance of public space

Available space in Flanders is becoming increasingly scarce while demand is only increasing. To make Flanders resistant and resilient to the many challenges of the future, it is necessary to optimize our public space. By making multifunctional use of space, we create a sustainable and livable environment that contributes to biodiversity and is climate-robust. 

Optimizing, rethinking or redeveloping public space requires a view of the various factors, functions and values inherent in the public character of the space. Hot topics include experience, water storage, CO²-capture, temperature buffering, increasing biodiversity, capturing particulate matter, green-blue networks and cultural-historical values.

But how do you deal with existing green elements and trees or how do you approach the management of new green elements? To take full advantage of the various functions, proper management and preservation of green elements are important factors.

Greening public spaces starts with nature-inclusive and climate-proof design and sustainable preservation of existing valuable green elements. When constructing or reconstructing public spaces, current and future green elements must therefore be taken into account from the start. An integrated approach in which it is not only about the infrastructure but also about the incorporation of green elements and use of materials. Fortunately, there are some tools to achieve this such as a planting plan, management plan and/or protection plan. 

A planting plan provides for thoughtful design, choice of materials and detailed consideration of species based on morphological and ecological characteristics. After all, not every species is equally suitable for greening public spaces. In addition, the growing site, rootable space and environment are of great importance to the success of a greening.

A management plan, on the other hand, describes the necessary management measures and times for the correct management of the green elements and ensures their long-term sustainability. Ecological qualities, practicality, safety and management costs should always be taken into account. Verge management plans are a well-known example, but a management plan can also be drawn up at park or tree level. 

The last but by no means least important tool is a protection plan. Usually this is a tree protection plan. Trees, especially mature trees, are not easily replaced. They have an important aesthetic, ecological and social value and often have a very high biodiversity value. A tree protection plan ensures the protection of existing trees during works near trees. The basis of a tree protection plan is an inventory and valuation prior to the works. Furthermore, it provides a detailed description of practical measures to be taken before, during and after the works. A tree protection plan is also a useful tool to prevent possible conflicts between different parties and possible damage claims.

One green element is not the other! They know this all too well at Landmax. As an ecological study bureau, they therefore have the necessary experience and expertise to steer a greening of public spaces in the right direction. It is their ambition to make the transition to higher quality green public spaces together with municipalities, governments, project developers and green professionals. As specialists in drawing up planting plans, management plans and protection plans, they always work independently and solution-oriented. Furthermore, they also offer support in communication and awareness-raising to all parties involved and can provide additional ecological advice.