From the Daily Scot:
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Profiling Christchurch, New Zealand’s Gap Filler Program
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When faced with the devastation of virtually losing their city overnight due to a series of earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, Christchurch residents, council, design community and volunteer groups like Gap Filler began a spirited city beautification project using simple and affordable tactical urbanism techniques. The results are fun, interactive and flexible.
Want to screen the damaged fenced off buildings. Why not a row of movable street trees?
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Oh, and that required chain link fence to keep people out of the rubble. Well, why not cover it with colourful art pieces?
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Oversized furniture for all age groups to linger and climb on – done. Let’s paint the pavement while we are at it.
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Lessons for Vancouver: Try it out in a simple and cost-effective way. Be bold, colourful and listen to feedback. Document it, and let the precedents inspire your permanent public realm designs.
