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The focus of this book was on the use of urban open spaces in the revitalisation of Galeshewe Township. It is an in-depth analysis of community perceptions, the provision of open space, land use planning and development of urban open spaces in the township. The study does not compare the Galeshewe Township to any other township that has successfully rolled out an urban renewal programme using public open spaces. The study concludes, that the purpose of township revitalisation is to improve the quality of life and to decrease urban poverty. The provision of unsuitable types of urban open spaces in previously neglected townships will not lead to the improvement of the quality of life for township dwellers, mainly due to the low value that is associated with the main benefits of urban open spaces, i.e., ecological; social and economic benefits. Urban open spaces in the townships are mainly used for pedestrian movements.
About the author
Dr Yandisa Mashalaba is a practicing town and regional planner and a research associate at the University of Free State, Department of Urban and Regional Planning.
