Streets and squares, two main elements of a city, tell the story about the problem of the lost function and identity of public spaces. For the first time in the history of Novi Sad, we launch a process in which citizens of Novi Sad decide on how to improve public spaces, and in this way they will directly affect transformation of public spaces and the style of life in their neighbourhoods. The ‘Novi Sad 2021’ Foundation initiated the process of improving public spaces entitled ‘Urban Pockets’ with the meeting of representatives of local communities. The conclusion is that July should mark the beginning of implementation of activities related to improvement of public surfaces. By initiating the process, the Foundation wants to create permanent model where citizens will be active participants in creating and improving public spaces, which would result in creation of the culture of living as one of the key elements of social development as a whole.

For this year, year one, in cooperation with experts, we selected seven local communities where citizens will be surveyed, while further analyses and opinion of citizens will be obtained through discussions in 4 local communities, which will get their first public spaces tailored by citizens by the end of the year. After this, we will launch a call for architectural solutions adjusted to specific needs and characteristics of the community and selected public spaces.

First surveys will be organised for citizens of Telep, Podbara, Detelinara, Satelit, Sremska Kamenica, Banatić, and Kovilj. In addition to surveys, we will organise meetings (focus groups) with active organisations and individuals who work in culture, art and creative sector, and with all who in any way contribute or can contribute to improvement of public spaces and contents in their neighbourhoods. During these meetings, citizens, together with the Association of Architects of Novi Sad, will define the desired content and characteristics of a public space, equipment and improvements, so that a public space would be given to those who will use it, and those are the citizens of Novi Sad.

The realisation of improvement of public spaces in the process of implementation of the ideas will be coordinated by the Institute for City Development, in cooperation with citizens of local communities, through so-called mobas, i.e. organised volunteer actions of citizens.

All citizens who wish to be included in this process from the above mentioned local communities will have an opportunity to talk with our interviewers. Furthermore, all who want to participate in the work process of work groups can write to nina.jankovic@ns2021.rs.

The survey will be conducted at the following locations in the period between 1 and 15 July: