Abstract

This paper examines the case of designing the public space through the exploitation of green resources. The public space we meet is a result of both social conditions and institutional framework. In recent years, in many points of Attica, the lack of public spaces is intense. However, where the public space is adequate, it often fails to be used by residents in the best possible way. In this context, the causes of the “inactive” public space will be examined as well as the spatial dimension of the problem in conjunction with the socioeconomic and cultural mutations taking place. These resources will be studied as to whether they can derive from the use of green taxes that a Municipality may receive in order to spend on better use of public space. The Municipality of Nea Ionia will be selected as an example of public urban space. The Municipality has been affected like all other Municipalities of Attica due to the economic crisis and needs rejuvenation actions in terms of utilization of existing public spaces. In order to illustrate the current image of the aforesaid Municipality, a field survey will be carried out in which the uses in the area will be captured. The issue relating the Municipality with the public spaces of other Municipalities will also be approached from the point of view of spatial neighboring as well as the functional disintegration. Finally reference will be made to the upcoming regeneration of the area based on the Municipality’s revenue resulting from green taxes.

Keywords: Green resources, Public space, Local authorities, Nea Ionia city