The Detriments and Benefits of the Fall of Planning: The Evolution of Public Space in a Balkan Post-socialist Capital

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to trace the evolution of the concept and role of public spaces in the capital of Albania, Tirana, since the fall of communism almost a quarter of a century ago. During this time, public spaces have undergone a complete transformation, which is examined through a theoretical framework based on under- and over-management critiques of public space. Processes of public space under- and over-management are ongoing in Tirana, with neglect, car invasion and space privatization being the most problematic issues. However, the authors argue that both under-management and over-management have had benefits as well as harm, in terms of urban diversity (economic and visual) and security.

Acknowledgements

Part of the research for this paper was carried out in the framework of the ‘Revival of City Squares in Balkan Cities’ project, funded by the Swiss Cultural Program in the Western Balkans.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.