Old Town Centres in Crisis
Stand:
Quality of life
The study groups from the Universities for mature students have also pointed
out another important element in their research. The old town centre could
become the ideal example of social and personal life. The research recognizes a
need for the old town centre to play the role of a museum especially when it
comes to freeing it from traffic or restricting its access with the introduction
of pedestrian areas. However, and most importantly, it offers suggestions aimed
at making that area a living modern space by creating walks, cycle tracks and
green areas for pedestrians easily accessible from "park and ride"
facilities. The old town centre will then play a double role as a social link
for the whole community and as a space focusing on the individual.
This "new" old town centre will be furnished but it will not become a
show piece for old-fashioned street lights, for benches or flower arrangements.
Researchers from the Universities have given their preference to an old town
centre with plenty of green space, leisure and relaxing places, and lighting
that enhance its artistic characteristics: it should become the symbol and
inspiration of quality in real life.
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