Shared Sub-Division Spaces That Foster a Sense of Community

If you are currently in the midst of organising a sub-division, you need to ensure that you meet all of the government's requirements for this type of space. If you don't, your application may be denied.

If you are creating a relatively large sub-division, you must set aside at least 12.5 percent of the land for use by the general community. The government does not specify which type of community space you need to set up, and that gives you a lot of flexibility. However, if you want to use your public areas to foster a sense of community in the sub-division, here are some ideas you should consider:

1. Dog Parks

Dog parks are an ideal inclusion in a sub-division, and they help to attract young couples or singles who have a dog but no children yet. In addition, a dog park can help foster community in your sub-division.

It give dog owners a place to gather, and it helps to create an instant connection between neighbours. Rather than struggling to start a conversation, neighbours can simply use their shared interest in dogs as a jumping-off point.

2. Community Gardens

Community gardens are a fabulous way to entice people who are interested in organic local foods and the urban farm movement to your sub-division. They also create a space, like dog parks, where like minded people can share a hobby.

In addition, gardening helps boost community in other ways as well. Gardeners are likely to share packets of seeds with each other, and at harvest time, they are often eager to trade produce and share recipes. Those elements all help to create a lively social vibe in your sub-division.

3. Sport Fields

Many people immediately think of parks when they are setting up community spaces in a sub-division. However, a simple playground may not be the best way to foster community in your sub-division. Unfortunately, kids spend less time mucking about than they used to. As a result, it isn't uncommon to see empty playgrounds at neighborhood parks.

Kids in most cases are heavily involved in organised sports. Because of that, consider forgoing the traditional playground and putting in sport fields instead (or adding both). That way, the parents in your sub-division can organise their kids' sport teams so that they practise or play on the fields in their very own neighbourhood.

As an added bonus, sport fields also give adults something to do. For example, sport fields in your sub-divisions may encourage neighbours to plan sand volleyball tournaments, football games and other community challenges.