Children and Public Space The Role of Urban Structure in Safety, Mobility, and Play in Residential Areas of Tirana

Abstract The urban environment is undergoing transformation in both its physical form and social dynamics due to rapid urban development and demographic change. Focusing on the residential areas of Tirana, this research analyses public spaces to examine perceptions of safety and to explore how they can be readapted to encourage children’s inclusion as rightful users of urban space. The methods employed include structured questionnaires with parents, video recordings from the children’s perspective, open interviews with children, and on-site observations. Applied in two selected case studies, the analysed data reveal the spatial attributes that make public spaces child-friendly and demonstrate how they can be adapted to support children’s development and independent play. The identified attributes are: (a) active edges and visual interaction; (b) visibility and continuity of movement; (c) urban forms with pockets, courtyards, and in-between spaces; (d) integration of parents’ activities with children’s play; and (e) spatial variety and diversity of urban elements. The research argues that urban planning, which considers children’s physical scale, perspective, and creativity, can make public spaces more inclusive for all. Recommendations include interventions related to urban form, material use, and the promotion of mixed-use environments to foster flexible spaces within the shared fabric of community life. Keywords Children, inclusive planning, independent mobility, public space, safety, unstructured play