Categorization and suggestions of management form for public spaces

A case of “Machinaka Hiroba” in Kansai region

Abstract

In recent years, the maintenance and management of plazas have been promoted towards revitalizing the central area. The purpose of this study is to clarify the characteristics and issues of three types of management form (designated manager system, outsourced management, and self-management) and to suggest a guideline for selecting a sustainable management form of plazas. This study focused on five plazas in Kansai region, and conducted a hearing survey with the local government and managers. Based on the survey results, three types of management form were analyzed from the perspective of location, role, and cost. This study suggests that it is important to clarify the images of plaza and to select a management form that is suitable to the local conditions.