- The positive impacts of open space according to the Sandton Open Space Plan (1992)
include the enhancement of the urban form by rivers and ridges and greater aesthetic
value. It is also a symbol of cultural quality, provides for the city’s social needs,
gives quality and pride to the neighbourhood, provides access to safe pedestrian and
cycling ways, and maintains communities’ physical and mental health.
- Open spaces also have a conservation and ecological benefit, by greening the
environment, improving biodiversity, enhancing air quality and managing the hydrology of
the urban environment (Sandton Town Council, 1992).
- The ratio of open space per person again shows that people in the northern areas have
greater access to open space. The lack of funding and investment potential in the south
limits the effective utilisation of open spaces there. As development and population
growth in Greater Johhannesburg increases, the amount of available open space decreases,
with limited measures being taken to monitor this development.
The lack of open space and a place to get away from the rush
of the city, is not good for people's mental health.
The past planning policy caused the wastage of many open
spaces, as well as a loss of their conservation potential. Mining causes degradation and a
loss of fertility of the land.
REFERENCES
Sandton Town Council 1992: An Open Space Plan for
Sandton. Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department: Sandton. |
