As Australiaโs population ages, aligning with global demographic shifts, the proportion of older adults is projected to rise significantly, increasing from 15% in 2017 to 21โ23% by 2066 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2018). There is increasing recognition of the needs in understanding how the built environment (including transport) can support healthy ageing and address the needs of an...
A key issue causing mental health problems among older adults is the lack of social engagement. For senior citizens living in urban areas, especially those residing in communities built before the 2000s, the only spaces for outdoor activities were sidewalks with no green features. These narrow outdoor spaces result in a lack of community engagement, which decreases the quality of life for both...
Studentificationโthe social, cultural, and physical transformation of urban areas driven by the influx of student populationsโpresents opportunities and challenges for the cities that choose the path of student-centered urban development (Smith, 2005). The literature on studentification typically highlights how students stimulate the housing market in the neighborhoods where they cluster...
Young people use public spaces distinctively different from adults, seeking environments for social interactions, gatherings, and identity formation rather than purposeful activities. Their unique spatial use patterns - characterised by fluid group dynamics, extended stays, and spontaneous social activities - often conflict with conventional public space management. Traditional public spaces...
Since the beginning of the 21st century the world has witnessed numerous global and local events that have led humanity back to hoping for more just and peaceful futures. Urban planning systems hold the potential to support such hope, with the anticipation of transforming lives, and the willingness to act towards realising such future visions. Particularly public spaces have a distinctive role...
Since 2019, China has promoted the concept of "People-Centered Urban Development," emphasizing the role of public spaces as a core component. As metropolitan areas transition into a phase of incremental urban renewal, the Chinese government has repeatedly stressed the importance of urban renewal. The 2025 State Council meeting on urban renewal highlighted the need to accelerate infrastructure...
