An Evaluation of Public Spaces in the Peri-Urban Areas of Hanoi in the Urbanization Process, 2008 to Present: Comparative Studies in Three New Wards of Hanoi, Vietnam

Public spacesPublic space play an important role in urban social life and have a dramatic impact on the quality of lifeQuality of Life for residents. However, regardless of whether or not the quantity and quality of public spaces can meet the growing demand, both aspects of public spaces have become a critical issue for the urbanized regions of many developing countries in Asia, and Vietnam is not an exception. In Hanoi’s peri-urban areas, where a significant spatial transition and socio-demographic change can be noted, examining and evaluating public spacesPublic space as well as re-conceptualizing public spaces for people are essential for planning and development. This chapter aims to clarify the definition of public spaces in the context of Vietnam and to analyze various patterns of public spaces in the peri-urban wards of Hanoi city. Of special concern is the typology of public spacesPublic space in selected wards where it is necessary to evaluate the quality of such spaces in these areas. Based on the analyzes of some of the most significant theoretical studies and outstanding practical projects, the authors have established a set of indicators to assess the quality of public spaces in peri-urban areas in the Vietnamese context, including accessibility, comfort, meaningful activities, safety, and inclusiveness. The public spaces in three peri-urban wards of Hanoi are analyzed by means of on-site observations and questionnaire surveys. Finally, a number of recommendations based on the survey outcomes offer valuable input for city planners, urban designers, and project managers in terms of improving the quality of public spacesPublic space toward the goal of sustainable urban developmentSustainable urban development.