Tactical approach to develop public spaces differently
The tactical approach has been covered extensively by the media since the health crisis. It offers numerous solutions for improving and transforming public spaces. It can be seen as a kind of softening of the traditional public space planning process or as a complementary approach. This guide realised by the Institut Paris Region on behalf of Ademe aims to provide tools and references drawn from the tactical approach to references to support the design of public spaces. It is based on various interviews conducted with professionals involved in city-making at all scales, as well as on a large number of publications such as studies, reports, guides and articles. This guide is for all stakeholders involved in the design of public spaces.
Getting started with the guide
1. The tactical approach in urban planning
The first part of this guide explains what defines the framework of the tactical approach and what differentiates it from transitory urbanism. This part presents tools for implementing a public space project using the tactical approach and highlights the interest of this approach.
2. Experimenting using the tactical approach
The second part specifies several key areas in the implementation of a public space project using the tactical approach. Covering active mobility modes, as well as aesthetics, maintenance and accessibility, thematic factsheets propose courses of action, whilst highlighting certain watch points. They are illustrated by examples of exploitable solutions and close-ups of projects.
3. Tactical approach resources
The last part proposes considering different examples of feedback. In France and elsewhere, many local authorities are experimenting with the design of their public spaces using the tactical approach. This feedback is a source of education and inspiration. This part also includes a list of professionals in the city building sector (local authorities, associations, design offices, urban planners, architects and landscape designers), who have shared their experiences. Finally, a non exhaustive list of resources will allow more insight into the subject to be provided or information on certain projects to which the guide refers.
Further reading
“It is essential to adapt tactical urbanism to the size and characteristics of each territory.”
This study is linked to the following themes :
Mobility |
Urban planning
