INTERNATIONAL ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM ON MANAGING PUBLIC SPACE (10+11 MARCH)

Wageningen University and Research and the Foundation of Managing Public Space cordially invite you to the first International Academic symposium on Managing Public Space (I.A.M. Public Space) to explore ways forward for integrated and innovative management and maintenance of public space in an open academic dialogue.

Future-proof management of public space
Public space is the new frontier where future challenges will need to be met. As society calls for more livable, safe and sustainable environments, multiple spatial claims will collide in the public domain where ownership boundaries and different utility systems meet. Integrated and innovative management of public space is required to tackle upcoming challenges and accommodate energy transition, climate adaptation, circular economies, and mobility innovations. Moreover, there are upcoming windows of opportunities as many of these above ground and underground infrastructural systems and assets near the end of their lifecycle and require upgrading or maintenance. Future-proof public spaces necessitate a rethink of how their management and maintenance can become more innovative and adaptive in light of the expected and unexpected future transitions and challenges.

Join the debate and contribute to building an international academic network on managing public space and explore collaborations in joint publications and projects. We welcome contributions that address the management and maintenance of public spaces, infrastructures and assets – both urban and non-urban – at various levels of scales. Scholars from disciplines such as sociology, geography, spatial planning, urban design and landscape architecture, civil engineering, asset management, and other related fields are encouraged to participate and facilitate an interdisciplinary dialogue. We especially encourage early-career academics and PhD candidates to contribute actively and participate in the symposium!