Gothenburg pilot project 'Sociotop' public space improvements

The Gothenburg pilot project involves two housing suburbs (Lövgärdet and Eriksbo) and under-used adjacent nature areas (lake and green spaces). The districts are located at the northeast of the city and were constructed in the 1960s and 1970s. They are mostly occupied by a deprived community and the physical environment needs to be renewed. The aim is to do so in a sustainable manner, encouraging socio-economic growth and long-term improvements to increase the attractiveness of open space.

The park planning tools as the Göteborg Sociotope map, Park district plan and Nature pedagogics work as back ground information and is used in the over all analysis of the park situation in the city district. The methods show user preferences in the areas as well as qualities and weaknesses in the green structure. The information is used to choose the most profitable places for investments. It also give ideas about how to direct the development of these places.   Click on this link for more on sociotope mapping: Sociotope Mapping Goteborg.pdf

In Lövgärdet the investment site is a city district park linking a playground to a school yard and a nearby lake. The design develop through a process including park managers, biologists, private housing companies and the inhabitants of Lövgärdet. In the proposal the park is given a stronger identity and its nature qualities are highlighted. Activities (especially for children and youths) as well as park qualities such as flowering trees and bulbs are added. The project aim to make the inhabitants involved in their nearby environment and to create a sense of ownership for the park. Possibilities for local jobs are therefore encouraged in the construction of the park. The aspect of future maintenance has been present through the process.

The Eriksbo park in Hjällbo is a popular place to meet and play in but is also a very run down place. The river banks of the stream Lärjeån next to the Eriksbo park could make the area even more exiting but need improvements to become more accessible and inviting. Gender issues and safety aspects will be especially highlighted in the design process. 



Back gardens in Lövgärdet

The Lovgardet pilot project is now complete and in full use by local people.  The site now has a new play area and a new football ground, both of which are proving to be very popular