KA JAČOJ ZAJEDNICI KROZ RODNO ODGOVORNO PLANIRANJE

Through urban planning and the design of public spaces—specifically the town square and the area of the former bus station in Leskovac—the concept of sustainable development was applied, aiming to balance economic, social, and environmental demands. The Urban Development Plan for the arrangement of the square, park, and other public areas was completed in 2015, after which the drafting of technical project documentation began. Construction work on the central town square started in 2019, and the city center reached its final form in 2023. The goal was to implement gender-responsive planning by recognizing the diverse needs, life circumstances, and interests of various groups of citizens of all ages and backgrounds, and by respecting aspects that contribute to social cohesion, a sense of community, and people’s identification with the square. Following the experience gained in the process of planning, designing, and implementing the square, work began on the development of the public area located at the site of the former bus station, thereby completing the new image of this part of the city. One of the main goals is to improve the quality of the environment in accordance with higher-level planning documents, particularly by increasing green space. Another key goal is the introduction of new features that enhance the quality of social life for citizens of all ages and interests, including content that supports gender equality and inclusivity, as well as enabling the use of the space by persons with special needs.