Well worth the walk – Thursday, January 29th, The Human Scale will be screened FREE at the ByTowne Cinema on Rideau St. This film is one not to be missed by anyone who wants their neighbourhood and Ward to be the very best it can be. This movie is nothing short of informative, interesting and this screening will be followed by an expert panel discussion and Q&A.
The Human Scale examines how public spaces are used and designed – a particularly relevant discussion in Ottawa at the moment with the City’s desire to increase core density. The documentary poses the question of how city’s would look and work if they were designed for humans rather than for traffic. Exercises are performed whereby spaces are reclaimed; cars which allow personal property to occupy huge swaths of public space are displaced to accommodate individuals. In particular Time Square re-imagined provokes the shockingly obvious realisation in locals that there is indeed no “Square” at this world famous landmark!
Danish Architect and Professor Jan Gehl who has inspired city planning in Copenhagen for 40 years argues that cities must be built to encourage human interaction, inclusion and intimacy.
Let’s hope this international movement inspires Ottawa to recognise the importance of incorporating the required space for cyclists, pedestrians and infrastructures that encourage human interaction alongside traffic planning to create a more attractive, vibrant and liveable Capital city.
ByTowne Cinema,
Thursday January 29th 6:30pm: doors open 6PM
Free: on a first-come basis
Sandy Hill Seen 