21 November 2024, Jatni. – Do you remember how young people from Jatni in India made Minecraft design layouts to give second life to underused public sites in their city? Today, the design layouts have been taken forward at the Virtual Pitch Meeting, where Young Gamechangers presented their ideas on how to improve the shortlisted sites to professional architects and public health experts.
The outcome is bound to be unique – young people must come to a common ground with professionals on what improvements are feasible, desirable, and will transform the sites to a flourishing public space equally enjoyable for all citizens.
Favourite ideas polished by experts
As the initial presentation concluded, the floor opened for feedback and questions. Participants applauded the clarity of the vision, especially regarding security provisions. In search of common language, the participants discussed the following concepts:
Safety and Security Concerns and Perceived Safety
Participants applauded the clarity of the vision, especially regarding security provisions. EVA Studio experts asked about the community’s security needs, particularly whether the CCTV and fencing addressed actual safety issues or perceptions of insecurity. Safety, particularly for women and children, was a strong focal point in this feedback, prompting a deeper discussion on the factors influencing these design choices.
Young people responded by sharing specific incidents that underscored the importance of security. Self-help groups, primarily women-led, had reported thefts near the park at night and incidences of illegal activities.
Young Gamechangers who surveyed the area corroborated these concerns, having observed some incidents firsthand. These observations justified the inclusion of security cameras and fencing to create a safe environment that promotes both real and perceived safety.
Multiple Use Public Space
As the session drew to a close, the conversation turned toward the multifunctional aspects of the space. The community expressed a strong interest in a dedicated gathering area that could host both informal gatherings and large community events without compromising the sports playground. This addition would provide a versatile, communal space that caters to local festivals and gatherings while allowing the cricket ground to serve as a central sports hub.
The conversation then shifted toward understanding the park’s daily usage patterns. EVA Studio experts asked how the space would be used throughout the day, curious if activities like cricket matches were held at designated times or overlapped with other uses. This raised points about how the design could accommodate different user groups during the day, with some areas serving diverse purposes without overcrowding.
At this point, a common theme emerged as participants noted recurring ideas across different group proposals, such as safety measures, sanitation facilities, and green space. One attendee suggested that organizing overlapping interventions could make review and decision-making more efficient.
Group presentations continued, with each adding unique contributions to the collective vision of Mundia Sahi Park. Group Two, for example, highlighted eco-friendly elements like solar lighting, shaded benches, and accessible pathways. Their design focused on making the park a welcoming, inclusive place that supports physical and mental well-being.
Establishing the Boundary for the Space
In another discussion, participants explored the park’s boundary design, weighing the pros and cons of various fencing styles. Some favored transparent fencing to enhance visibility and openness, while others suggested shading through trees or structures, considering the long-term effects on aesthetics and usability. These discussions reflected the desire to balance safety with an inviting, open atmosphere.
Participatory Budgeting
Participants then explored the next stages, including community input on priorities and participatory budgeting. The Young Gamechangers plan to engage the community in selecting the most valuable features, helping them align improvements with the budget. Emphasizing the importance of a well-defined timeline, attendees noted that input from various stakeholders is essential for a smooth design and implementation process.
Maintenance Culture
Maintenance and sustainability became central topics, with several attendees voicing concerns about the upkeep of features like water taps and public toilets. They pointed out that these facilities, if not maintained, could create health hazards, underscoring the need for a long-term maintenance plan.
One suggestion was to cluster water sources for easier management, while another participant questioned whether CCTV cameras could be effectively monitored. These discussions stressed that each improvement must be practical and manageable, especially with limited resources.
Urban Health and Global Goals are at the Forefront of the Proposals
There was so much to learn from both sides. After nearly wrapping up, participants shared their appreciation for the thoughtful, inclusive design suggestions. They acknowledged the efforts of the Young Gamechangers in translating the community’s vision into concrete plans, with each aspect—from cleanliness and inclusivity to the environmental impact—reflecting a commitment to a better public space.
By prioritizing feasibility and maintenance in the design discussions, they took an essential step toward ensuring that the two sites – Mundia Sahi Park and Maa Uttarayanee Sports Ground – serve as sustainable, welcoming, and safe community hubs for all.
