Inclusive and resilient riverbanks through public spaces

In Solo, formal public spaces — such as enclosed parks and ceremonial venues — are currently the predominant paradigm of public space development. Meanwhile, small-scale common spaces within neighbourhoods often remain overlooked despite offering equally valuable opportunities for its communities. Embracing this potential, the riverbank of Pepe River - also known as Kali Pepe in Bahasa - emerges as a thriving area surrounded by dense residential neighbourhoods, presenting untapped possibilities to be developed and activated as an active public space.  

The programme Rivers as Inclusive Common Space: Co-Development of Kali Pepe Riverbank Area is a joint initiative led by Kota Kita in partnership with UN-Habitat, Surakarta City Government, Urban+ Institute, and Ayo Ke Taman. The programme aims to promote the transformation of riverbank areas as inclusive and resilient public spaces that can be used and accessed by the residents regardless of age, gender, and ability through the development of a citywide vision and strategy for inclusive riverbank public space and the development of a demonstrative project as a pilot. After careful assessment, a vacant space near Rusunawa Mangkubumen, an affordable public housing block in Solo, was selected as the site for the pilot initiative. 

The project promotes a participatory and inclusive approach to developing a small-scale riverbank public space. Over six months, the project actively engaged more than 60 residents of Rusunawa Mangkubumen in Solo, spanning across generations from children to older people, throughout every stage of the initiative from inception to the final design consultation. This engagement included a two-day Block by Block workshop, where residents collaborated in co-designing the public space, expressing their aspirations, needs, and desired features, and visualising them using Minecraft. 

“Based on the experience in designing and creating this park in Mangkubumen, it is evident that collaboration serves as the backbone for replicating similar spaces throughout the city of Surakarta. Therefore, we eagerly anticipate the active participation of the community and other institutions in this endeavor.” 

The project sought to raise awareness about the challenges vulnerable communities face in accessing public spaces by utilising activities that help to impersonate different "personas", including persons with disabilities, the elderly, pregnant women, children, and others. Through collaborative learning and embracing inclusivity principles among the residents, the project strives to foster this space's thoughtful and inclusive development. As a result, the public space design is informed and tailored to the specific needs of the most marginalised, ensuring a space that truly serves the entire community. 

“At that time, in the meeting room, I was happy to be involved in the design process (of the space) using Minecraft. But now, I'm even happier because it went from just a game to becoming a real-world park. I can now play soccer more freely with my friends in the park, without distractions like motorcycles passing by.” 

The constructed public space, now called Taman Rukun Mangkubumen or Mangkubumen Harmony Park, has provided active space that enables citizen interactions, benefiting over 80 households - approximately 320 residents - residing within a 100-meter radius of the area. Additionally, the project stands as an example of how riverbanks can be utilised as an active and inclusive common space that accommodates diverse activities for various users. Emphasising accessibility as a core value, the space incorporates ramps, handrails, and guiding blocks, ensuring usability for all. Furthermore, the project upholds sustainability by reusing materials, preserving existing greenery, and implementing a rainwater harvesting system to minimise environmental impact.

“It's a nice gathering spot, and now it's so much better than before when it was rarely utilized. Usually, us elderly folks sit here, chat, and watch the kids play. The little ones have a great time, and parents can keep a close eye on them. Sometimes, even kids from outside (the rusunawa) come here to play and exercise. Nowadays, the community is already taking the initiative to organize schedules for morning and evening activities or sporting events, so both kids and parents can enjoy it.”