building neighborhood playgrounds: field - healthbridge · pdf filewould go smoothly without...
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�Field�
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���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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FOREWORD�
Action�Centre�for�City�Development�(ACCD)�was�founded�on�December�22nd�2006,�under�the�Vietnam�Union�of�Science�and�Technology�Associations.�With�diverse�backgrounds,�youthful�enthusiasm,�and�a�sense�for�community�interests,�the�staff�of�the�centre�have�successfully�implemented�many�projects,�contributing�to�sustainable,�green�life�in�Vietnamese�cities.�
After�one�year�of�implementing�a�project�on�public�spaces�in�Hoi�An�city�in�collaboration�with�the�city�People’s�Committee,�the�Department�of�Culture�and�Information,�the�Department�of�Urban�Management,�the�People’s�Committees�of�Cam�Chau�ward�and�Cam�Thanh�communes,�and�with�support�from�HealthBridge�Canada,�we�have�developed�three�playgrounds:�one�in�An�My�–�Cam�Chau,�one�at�Cam�Thanh�cultural�house�and�one�in�Thanh�Tam�Tay�–�Cam�Thanh.��
During�the�playground�construction�process,�we�and�the�partners�have�acquired�much�practical�and�helpful�experience�that�we�sum�up�in�this�document.�We�would�like�to�share�the�experience�with�interested�organizations�and�individuals�in�order�to�contribute�to�the�development�of�neighborhoods�playgrounds�in�Hoi�An�and�other�cities�nationwide.��
We�would�like�to�receive�your�comments�and�feedbacks�to�finalize�this�document�to�become�a�manual�for�playground�development.�
Please�send�comments�and�feedback�to�the�following�address:��
Action�Centre�for�City�Development�Ͳ�57�Tran�Phu,�Hoi�An,�Quang�Nam�
�Or�email:�[email protected]�
Thank�you�very�much!�
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���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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WHY�PLAYGROUNDS�FOR�CHILDREN?�
� As� in� other� places� across� the� country,� people� have� very� limited� access� to� public�spaces�in�Hoi�An�town.�Public�spaces,�especially�playgrounds�for�children,�are�therefore�our�top�priority.�Besides�providing� children�with� healthy�play� spaces� to�help� them�with� both�their�mental� and� physical� development,� playgrounds� are� also� an� important� aspect� of� a�wellͲdesigned�city�that�gives�space�for�socializing,�play,�and�nature.�
Furthermore,�playgrounds�benefit�people�of�all�ages.�They�serve�as�public�venues�for�neighbors� to�network�and�connect�with�one�another.�They�are� ideal�places� for�all�ages� to�enjoy�activities.�They�provide�a�healthy�recreational�option�to�people.�Thus,�playgrounds�will�play�an�important�role�in�lowering�the�rate�of�juvenile�delinquency�and�create�a�vibrant�and�safe�setting�for�youth.��
� Finally,� the�expansion�and�diversification�of�public�spaces�will�help� to�create�green�architecture�and�space�for�the�public,�thus�shaping�a�sustainable�eco�township,�which�is�the�final�target�for�Hoi�An�City.��
PREPARATION�
1. �Survey�on�local�demand�and�availability:�9 Survey�on�local�demand:�
Playgrounds� should� meet� public� needs,� gain� public� support� and� potentially�contribution�to�their�construction�and/or�maintenance,�achieve� local�government�support,�and� be� sustainable� (among� other� reasons,� due� to� sustainability� being� a� top� priority� for�donors�and�local�governments).�To�be�sustainable,�playgrounds�should�be�developed�based�on�the�desires�and�needs�of�the�public.�First�one�must� learn�what� it� is�the�public�wants.� In�this�project,�ACCD�identified�public�demand�by�conducting�a�survey�on�the�wishes�and�ideas�of�An�My�ward’s� citizens� (in� Cam� Chau� precinct)� about� building� An�My� playground.� The�process�went�like�this:��
x ACCD�officers� identified�and�made�a� list�of�places�where�there�was�no�public�space� in�Cam�Chau�precinct.�
x ACCD�met� local�authorities� to� identify� local�needs�and� selected�a� suitable�place� for�a�playground.�
x Cam�Chau’s�local�authority�decided�to�select�An�My�ward�for�the�playground.�
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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�Interview�with�local�residents�on�public�space�
x ACCD�coordinated�with�An�My�ward�officers� to�hold�meetings�with� local� residents� to�identify� their� needs� and� collect� their� ideas� on�whether� it�was� necessary� to� build� a�playground� for� children,� which� place� should� be� chosen,� and� what� play� equipment�should�be�purchased.�
x The�initial�process�of�needs�identification�and�community�involvement�was�designed�to�win� complete� support� from� local� authorities� and� residents� for� the�whole� process� of�building,� operating� and�maintaining� the� playground.� It� was� also� used� to� check� the�availability�of� local� authorities� and� residents� for� the�building�of� the�playground,� as� a�successful�playground�would�require�support�from�both�authorities�and�the�community.�
�One�of�the�community�cultural�houses�in�Hoi�An�City�visited�during�the�research�
�9 �Local��availability�was�shown�in�the�following�elements:�
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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x The�precinct�officers�were�ready�to�provide�information�and�potential�sites�for�the�playground�
x The�precinct�officers�played�an�active�role�in�investigating�sites�for�the�playground�
x The�precinct�officers�actively�supported�the�completion�of�legal�documents�for�the�construction�of�the�playground�
x The�precinct�and�ward�officers�participated�in�meetings�to�collect�ideas�from�local�residents�
x The�precinct�and�ward�officers�played�an�active�role�in�seeking�donations�for�the�building�of�the�playground�(contribution�from�local�residents�and�donations�from�local�businesses,�local�officers�and�individuals…)�
x Local�residents�were�ready�to�contribute�to�the�process�of�building,�operating�and�maintaining�the�playground�
�
�Seminar�on�Public�Spaces�in�Hoi�An�city,�7�September�2012��
�2. Site�selection:�
Criteria�for�selecting�the�playground�site:�9 Area:��
The�playground�area�should�be�balanced�between� the�population�size�and� the�availability�of�land.�Cam�Thanh�and�Cam�Chau�have�about�100�children/ward�and�1,000� children/precinct.� Based� on� those� figures,� the� suitable� playground� area�was�determined�to�be�300m2�to�save�land�and�human�resources.��
9 Accessibility:�� The� playground� site� should� be� at� the� center� of� the�ward� or� at� a� place� easily�
accessible�for�local�residents.�
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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� The�playground�should�be�located�next�to�main�roads�to�provide�easy�access�by�various�means�of�transportation�(especially�on�foot�or�by�bicycle)�for�both� local�residents� and� contractors� during� their� building� of� the� playground.� It� was�suggested�that�some�actions�should�be�taken�to�restrict�cars�and�motorbikes�to�the�playground�to�deal�with�the�lack�of�parking�facilities.�Local�residents�could�be�encouraged�to�walk�or�bike�to�the�playground�as�follows:�
� Free�parking�should�be�applied� for�bicycles�and�a�parking� fee�should�be�charged�for�cars�and�motorbikes�
� Flyers� should�be�delivered� to� all� those�on�motorbikes� to�encourage�them� to� walk� or� cycle� to� the� playground.� Benefits� of� walking� and�cycling� to� health� should� be� included� in� the� flyer� to� enhance� the�effectiveness�of�communications.�
� The� playground� should� be� located� near� children’s� gathering� places� such� as�schools,�or�wellͲknown� local�places� such�as� community� cultural�houses�of� the�hamlet/ward� in� order� to� attract� public� attention� and�make� it� easier� for� later�management.�
�A�playground�located�within�the�precinct�of�a�community�cultural�house,�right�at�the�center�
of�Cam�Thanh�commune�and�opposite�Cam�Thanh�primary�school�and�Cam�Thanh�kindergarten�
�9 Terrain:�
x The� playground� should� be� located� on� a�moderately�sloped�or�relatively�even�site�with� little�gravelly�soil�to�save�cost,� labor�and� time� for� site� leveling� and�
90%
10%
Maintenance�cost�out�of�total�cost
Construction�costMaintenance�cost
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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transportation�of�materials�during�construction.�9 Cost:�
x The�location�and�size�of�the�playground�should�be�balanced�between�the�budget�and� the� needs� of� local� residents.� In� some� cases� there� was� a� longͲstanding�demand� for�a�playground,�but�not�every� locality�could�afford,�or� raise�enough�funds,� to�build� it.�Thus,� it�was�necessary� to�select� localities�with�a�harmonious�balance�between� their�budgets�and� local�needs� to�ensure�the� feasibility�of� the�playground.��
x The� costs� of� construction� and�maintenance� should� include� 10%� contribution�from�local�residents�in�the�form�of�money�or�working�days.���
x The�cost�estimation�should�include�5%�maintenance�fee.��9 The�advertisement�of�harmful�products�should�not�be�allowed�in�the�playground.�The�
advertisement�of�healthy�products�should�be�possible�but�only� in�small�sizes�and�at�places�that�are�not�eyeͲcatching.�
9 Susceptibility�to�flooding:�x The�playground�site�should�be�located�on�highͲlying�land�and�above�the�normal�
flood�stage�to�prevent�floods�from�destroying�playground�equipment.�This�policy�also�helps�to�save�maintenance�costs.��
x If� the� whole� ward� is� located� on� lowͲlying� land� (with� high� flood� frequency),�composite�materials�that�are�durable�and�resistant�to�sunlight�and�flood�should�be�used�to�install�playground�equipment.�
9 Planned�land:�x The� playground� site� should� already� have� a� land� use� plan� and� be� under� no�
dispute�over�the� land�use�right.�In�this�way,�the�construction�of�the�playground�would�go� smoothly�without�any�delay� from� local�governments�or� residents.� In�Hoi� An� city,� most� community� cultural� houses� of� hamlets/wards� or�communes/precincts�have�large�areas�of�vacant�land,�which�have�been�planned�to�serve�community�activities.�These�community�cultural�houses�often�sit�right�at�the�residential�center�and�on�main�roads�of�the�hamlet/ward/precinct,�making�it�easy�for�local�residents�to�access�the�playground.�
x If� the� planned� land� for� public� space� cannot� be� found� in� the� locality,� other�suitable� vacant� areas� could� be� considered� with� the� support� of� the� local�authority.�
�3. Working�with�municipal�leaders�and�local�authorities�9 Principles:�
x Working�with�fairness,�equality,�respect,�and�openness.�
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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x Giving�specific�assignments�to�each�party�in�charge�and�imposing�responsibilities�and� fines� for� not� fulfilling� an� assignment.� The� assignment� should� help� each�person� in�charge� find�out� their�roles�and�responsibilities�as�well�as�check� their�work�progress.�Each�party� in�charge� should�provide�and�exchange� information�regularly.��
x Calling� for� interͲsectoral� coordination� (with� the� Culture� and� Information�Department,� Urban� Management� Department,� Natural� Resources� and�Environment� Department)� and� multiͲlevel� coordination� (by� the� city,�village/precinct� and� hamlet/ward).� The� assignments� should� clarify� the� leading�roles�and�the�supporting�roles�of�each�person�in�charge.��
x The� decisions� of� municipal� or� local� authorities� should� be� discussed� among�parties�and�all�should�strictly�follow�legal�procedures.���
x Any� decision� should� be� final� was� after� receiving� a�majority� of� votes� among�municipal�and�local�authorities.�
x Working� approach:� the� successful� building� of� pilot� playground�models� should�benefit�local�residents�and�lay�the�foundation�for�working�with�local�authorities�in�formulating�playground�policies.�In�Hoi�An�City,�ACCD�and�HealthBridge�were�successful� in�using� this�approach� to� influence� local�authorities�on�public�space�policies�including:�
x A�decision�to�develop�a�master�plan�on�public�space�in�Hoi�An�City��x A�decision�to�ensure�that�each�village/precinct�must�have�at�least�one�
playground�in�a�community�cultural�house.�9 Dealing�with�problems:�
x When�a�problem�arises,�an�immediate�meeting�with�municipal�leaders�and�local�authorities�should�be�convened�to�tackle�the�issue�and�avoid�further�problems.��
x The� root� causes� of� the� problem,� as�well� as� people�with� authority,� should� be�identified�in�order�to�find�appropriate�solutions.���
�4. Donations:��9 Coordinating� with� local� authorities� to�make� a� list� of� supportive� and� enthusiastic�
donors� and� asking� for� support� from� local� authorities� to� facilitate� the� process� of�raising�donations.�
9 Donation�sources:�x Organizations,�restaurants,�hotels,�factories,�tourism�agencies�x Local�shops�and�businesses�x Local�authorities�x Local�residents�x Expatriates�
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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�5. Collecting�ideas�of�local�residents�9 Participants:�
x Local�authorities�x Local�residents�of�different�occupations,�age,�and�gender�and�especially�children�
–�the�end�users�of�the�playground�x Architects,�who�are�local�or�from�neighboring�towns�
9 Discussions�should�be�conducted�in�groups�of�similar�age�ranges�and�gender,�such�as�a�children’s�group,�a�women’s�group,�a�youth�group,�a�middle�aged�group,�and�an�elderly�group�to�get�the�most�comprehensive�ideas�from�local�residents.�Each�group�may�have�different�views,�interests,�and�needs�related�to�the�playground.�
9 The�groups�should�be�asked�to�discuss�and�answer�the�following�three�questions:�1Ͳ�What�activities�are�taking�place�at�the�selected�site?;�2Ͳ�What�activities�are�expected�to�take�place�at�the�selected�site?;�3Ͳ�What�activities�are�expected�not�to�take�place�at�the�selected�site?�
9 Based�on� the� ideas�collected� from� local� residents,�a�detailed�briefing� for�designing�the� playground� should� be�made� for� architects.� Identifying� local� needs�was� a� very�important�process� as� it�1)�offered� the� community�a� chance� to�discuss�and�agree�on�what�should�be�prioritized;�2)�helped�architects�to�understand�the�public�goals�and�demands;�3)�gave�the�community�a�chance�to�play�an�active�role� in�designing�their�public�space.��
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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�
�
Identifying�needs�of�local�residents�on�restoration��
Identifying�local�needs�of�renovating�the�community�cultural�house�of�An�My�ward,�Cam�Chau�precint,�Hoi�An�city:��
Survey�conducted�in�January�2012�
Step� 1:� Situation� assessment:� collecting� ideas� of� local� residents� on�what� activities� are� taking� place,�what�activities�are�expected� to� take�place�and�what�activities�are�expected�not� to� take�place� in� their�community�cultural�houses.�
Ideas Number of votes
Swimming pool, swimming training 30
Football, volleyball, basketball, badminton courses
14
Playground equipments (Ferris wheel, see-saw)
12
Trees, flower beds, grass 10
Elderly zone 6
Soft skills courses 5
Toilet 4
Library and computer room 3
Security and gardening 3
Lighting and sound systems
3
Pumps and watering systems
3
Health care and first aid
2
Innovation of the meeting hall
2
Sentry box
2
In-house ping-pong table
2
Horizontal bar and parallel bar 1 �
Table�of�activities�that�are�expected�to�take�place�in�community�cultural�houses�
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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Step�2:�Innovating�solutions�
�
Work�in�groups�
�
A�solution�proposed�by�a�local�resident�
�
Perspective�drawing�
�
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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�6. Setting�up�the�playground�management�unit�9 Time:� The� playground� management� unit� should� be� set� up� before� commencing�
construction� activities.�Many� problems�might� arise� from� the� construction� process�that�need�timely�supervision,�control�and�support�of�the�Management�unit.���
9 The�Management�Unit�should�be�composed�of:�x Local�residents�x Local�highͲskilled�mechanics�or�building�workers�x Hamlet/ward�leaders�x Youth�Union�Branch�Secretary�x Chief�of�Fatherland�Front�Department�x Chief�of�Farmers�Union�Branch�x Chief�of�Women’s�Union�Branch�x Chief�of�Veterans�Association�Branch�x Leaders�of�hamlets/wards�x Representatives�from�independent�organizations�such�as�ACCD�
9 Besides� the�Management�Unit,� a� Supervision� Unit,� consisting� of� experienced� and�professional�members�in�the�construction�field,�could�be�established.�
9 Developing�operational� regulations� for� the�Management�Unit� and� the� Supervision�Unit:� the�operational� regulations,�which�describe� roles�and� responsibilities�of�each�management� member,� should� be� developed� right� at� the� establishment� of� the�Management� Unit� by� its�members� and� local� leaders.� The� operational� regulations�should�help�each�management�member�understand�their�roles�and�responsibilities,�making�it�easy�for�them�to�manage�and�check�the�work�process.��
9 Developing� playground� regulations:� The� Management� Unit� should� develop� and�complete� the� playground� regulations� before� commencing� construction� of� the�
Step�3:�Arrive�at�a�consensus�and�select�the�final�solution�
�
Presentation�
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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playground.�Children�begin�playing�in�the�playground�immediately�after�construction�and� installation,.� Thus,� the� playground� regulations� should� be� developed� before�commencing�construction�activities�and�fixed�at�the�playground�to�remind�players�to�follow�the�regulations�to�protect�the�equipment.��Note:�Please�refer�to�The�Decision�on�the�Formation�of�the�Playground�Management�Unit�and�The�Playground�Regulations�to�the�Annex�1�(Page�17)�
ENGINEERING�DESIGN�AND�CONSTRUCTION�
7. Designing�the�playground�with�public�involvement�9 Participants:�
x Interested�local�residents�x Local�architects�or�architects�from�neighboring�towns�x Architects�from�other�localities�x Local�officers�
9 Deciding�the�most�relevant�playground�model�from�the�two�following�basic�ones:�x Industrial�equipment�
o Advantages:�durability�and�resistance�to�sunlight,�rain�and�flood.�o Disadvantages:�high�costs�as�equipments�should�be� imported� from�other�
countries.�o This�model�should�be�applicable�to� localities�that�are� far�or� isolated� from�
the�downtown,� low� lying�and�prone� to� flooding,�as� it� is�hard� to�maintain�and�repair�equipment�in�those�areas.�
�Cam�Thanh�playground,�which�was�developed�on�the�area�of�750m2�within�the�precinct�of�Cam�Thanh�community�cultural�house�with�total�cost�of�VND�1.5�billion�and�with�21�
pieces�of�equipment�imported�and�shipped�from�Canada�
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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x Local�materials�which�are�environmentally�friendly,�such�as�bamboo�and�coconut�trees�o Advantage:� Environmentally� friendly,� taking� full� use� of� local� equipment�
and�experience,�costͲeffective�o Disadvantage:�requires�frequent�maintenance,�shorter�life�(<20�years)�than�
industrial�materials�o This�model�should�be�applicable�to�localities�that�have�available�sources�of�
natural�materials�such�as�bamboo�or�wood�and�highly� skilled�workers� to�make�it�easy�for�later�maintenance�and�repair.��
�A�playground�in�hamlet�1�(Cam�Thanh),�which�was�developed�on�the�area�of�200m2�with�14�pieces�of�equipment�and�total�materials�and�
labor�costs�of�VND�200�million���
9 Architects� should�be�divided� into�work� groups� to�propose� the�most� suitable�design�based�on�the�briefing�from� local�residents�(one�group� is�composed�of�local�architects�and� the� other� group� is� composed� of� architects� from� other� localities).� Each� group�should� incorporate�public� ideas� into�their� final�proposal�and�present� it�to�the�public.�The�proposal�that�wins�the�most�votes�should�be�selected.�
�8. Selecting�contractors�9 Numerous� contractors� should� be� invited� for� bidding� to� increase� the� competition,�
lower�the�price�and�ensure�the�quality�of�the�playground.�9 Local� contractors� should� be� invited� for� bidding� as� they� are� more� flexible� and�
responsible�for�constructing�and�maintaining�the�playground�later.�9 Contractors� should� not� only� be� inexpensive� but� also� capable� of� undertaking� the�
construction.��
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
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9 Selecting� contractors� should� involve� multiple� parties� (local� government,� local�residents,�donors…)�to�enhance�transparency.��
9 The�Supervision�Unit�should�assign�one�person�to�be�in�charge�of�a�site�diary�to�check�work�progress�as�well�as�control�any�emerging�problems.�
CONSTRUCTION�AND�MAINTENANCE�
9. Construction�9 Local�residents�should�be�involved�in�the�construction�of�the�playground.�Their�initial�
involvement�increases�their�sense�of�responsibility�for�taking�care�of�the�playground�after�its�construction.�They�could�clear�the�site,�make�a�fence,�plant�trees,�transport�materials,�make�trellises,�build�benches,�and�paint�the�equipment.��
9 The� construction� of� the� playground� should� be� supervised� by� architects� or�professional�officers�as�the�skills�and�experiences�of�each�worker�and�contractor�are�very�different�and�some�details�require�a�high�level�of�skill�and�accuracy.��
9 The�Management�Unit�and�Supervision�Unit�should�be� involved� in�the�construction�of�the�playground�to�contribute�their�opinions�and�handle�any�problems.�
�10. Maintenance�9 Difficulties� should� be� identified� � and� addressed� in� the� maintenance� of� the�
playground:�x Sanitation�x Safety�regulations�x Maintenance:� Who� is� in� charge� of� daily� checking,� supervision,� and�
maintenance?�x Damage:�Who� is� in� charge�of� replacing�parts?�Where� can� replacements�be�
found?�x Toilet�x Parking�area�
9 Maintenance�fund:�x A�voluntary�mechanism�for�financial�contributions�is�needed�x Fund�management:�
¾ Who�keeps�the�fund?�Who� is� in�charge�of�receiving�funds,�paying�bills,�and�book�keeping?�
¾ Financial�receipts�and�payments�should�be�transparent�and�announced�at�regular�meetings�with�local�residents.��
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 16
¾ Cash�or�Bank�account?� If�opening�a�bank�account,�who� should�be� the�account� owner?� Who� should� be� in� charge� of� depositing� and�withdrawing�money?�
9 Calling�for�public�involvement�in�the�maintenance�of�the�playground:�x Public�activities�and�gatherings�should�be�held�at� the�playground� to�call� for�
public� involvement� in� the� maintenance� of� the� playground.� Consequently,�local� residents�are�provided�with�a� chance� to�maintain� the�playground�and�participate�in�public�activities�at�the�same�time.��
x Local� offices,� businesses� and� organizations� should� hold� voluntary� days� for�their�employees�to�clean�and�maintain�the�playground.���
x Experiences� from� the� U.S.� could� be� shared:� volunteers� are� recruited� to�maintain� the�playground� (a� certain�number�of�hours/week�or� total�hours).�When�they�have�finished�their�tasks,�they�will�be�given�an�assessment,�which�acknowledges�their�contributions�to�the�public.�Those�volunteers�can�include�the�assessments�in�their�job�applications�to�impress�potential�employers.�
�11. Media�and�communications�9 Objective:��
x To�win�support�from�local�authorities.�x To�enhance�possibilities� to�raise� funds� from�donors� for�the�construction�of�the�
playground.�x To�communicate�the�model�to�the�public�to�attract�their�interest�and�help�them�
understand�the�significance�and�necessity�of�children’s�playgrounds�in�particular�as�well�as�public�spaces�in�general.��
x To� enhance� public� awareness� and� to� call� for� public� involvement� in� the�construction,�supervision�and�maintenance�of�the�playground.�
9 The�following�channels�of�media�and�communications�should�be�utilized:�x Local�newspapers�and�television�channels�x Local�radio�news�(hamlet�or�ward)�x National�newspapers�x Local�websites�x Quarterly�meetings�with�local�residents�x Other�communications�channels�
�
�
�
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 17
ANNEX1�
CHILDREN�PLAYGROUND�REGULATIONS�
I. Composition�of�the�playground�Management�Unit:�1. Manager:�village/ward�heads�2. Assistant�Manager:��
x Deputy�Head�of�village/ward�x Village�Youth�Union�Branch�Secretary�
3. Representatives�from�village/ward�union�branches:�x Chief�of�Fatherland�Front�Department�x Chief�of�Farmers�Union�Branch�x Chief�of�Women’s�Union�Branch��x Chief�of�Veterans�Association�Branch�x Heads�of�civil�groups�in�villages/wards�x Representatives�from�ACCD�
�II. Roles�and�responsibilities�of�the�Management�Unit:�
�1. Managing�all�assets�and�equipment�on�the�playground.�2. Developing�the�playground�regulations.�3. Supervising�and�managing�all�activities�taking�place�on�the�playground.�4. Planning�and�implementing�the�regular�maintenance�of�the�playground�(monthly�or�
semiͲmonthly).�5. Ensuring�security�and�safety�on�the�playground.�6. Regular�cleaning�of�the�playground�(weekly�or�three�times�per�week).�7. Assigning� persons� in� charge� of� supervising� the� playground� (including� activities,�
sanitation,�opening�and�closing�time,�security,�and�monitoring�of�any�damage�to�the��equipment)�to�quickly�discover�problems�and�provide�immediate�solutions.�
8. Being� responsible� for� raising� funds� to�maintain� the�playground,�manage� this� fund�and� record� receipts� and� payments� of� the� maintenance,� and� to� provide� this�information�to�the�public�at�regular�meetings�with�local�residents.��
9. Ensuring� the� maintenance� fund� to� be� used� for� the� purpose� of� maintaining� the�playground.�
10. Being�responsible�for�educating�the�children�to�keep�the�playground�clean.�11. The�Manager�should�make�a�weekly�checklist.� If�there� is�any�problem�arising� in�the�
week,� the� person� in� charge�will� report� to� the�Manager� and� the�Manager�will� be�responsible�for�getting�the�equipment�repaired�or�replaced.�
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 18
�III. The�maintenance�fund:�
�1. The�maintenance�fund�should�be�raised�from�the�following�sources:�
x Local�organizations,�businesses�and�individuals.�x Village/Ward’s�private�fund.�x Voluntary�contributions�from�local�residents.�x Leasing�the�vacant�area�of�the�playground�for�bonsai�services.�
2. The�maintenance�fund�should�be�used�for�maintenance�purposes�only.�3. The�maintenance�fund�is�not�the�operational�fund�of�the�Management�Unit.�4. The�Manager� should� assign� a� person� as� a� cashier� to�make� receipts� and� payment�
journals.�5. The�receipts�and�payments�book�should�be�transparent�and�announced�at�quarterly�
meetings�with�local�residents.�6. The�maintenance�fund�should�be�a�cash�fund.�
�
�
�
�
�
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 19
ANNEX�2�
THE�PLAYGROUND�REGULATIONS�
CAM�THANH�PLAYGROUND�REGULATIONS�
Opening�time:�6:00�A.M.�Closing�time:�8:00�P.M.�
AGE�GROUPS:��
Ͳ The�play�area�is�developed�for�children�under�15�years�old�only.�Ͳ If�anyone�is�discovered�to�play�truant�from�schools�to�play�in�this�playground,�they�
will�be�reported�to�their�schools.�
SAFETY�GUIDELINES:�
Ͳ Children�should�keep�themselves�and�other�players�safe.�Ͳ Avoid�dangerous�activities�such�as�throwing�sand,�jumping�off�swings�or�jumping�off�
high�places.�Ͳ Don’t�bring�dangerous,�sharp�and�pointed�weapons�such�as�knife,�scissors,�or�sticks�
to�the�play�area.�Ͳ Don’t�throw�bricks�or�stones�at�each�other.�Ͳ Don’t�quarrel�or�fight�in�the�play�area.�
SANITATION�
Ͳ Keep�the�play�area�clean.�Ͳ Don’t�leave�litter;�place�it�in�the�appropriate�bin.�Ͳ Don’t�bring�food�into�the�play�area.�Ͳ Don’t�smoke�or�drink�in�the�play�area.�Ͳ Go�to�the�toilet�at�the�right�place.�
PROTECTING�PLAY�EQUIPMENTS�
Ͳ Protect�public�property.�Ͳ Park�at�the�right�place�and�be�responsible�for�personal�assets�such�as�vehicles,�
helmets,�bags,�and�shoes.�Ͳ Don’t�push�and�fight.�Ͳ Give�priority�to�small�kids.�Ͳ Don’t�damage�play�equipment�or��break�off�trees�in�the�play�area.�
Please�report�any�incident�to�the�person�in�charge�for�immediate�action!�
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 20
ANNEX�3�
MEDIA�COVERAGE�OF�THE�3�PLAYGROUNDS�DEVELOPED�IN�HOI�AN�
1. Media�articles�about�An�My�Playground��(An�My�Ward,�Cam�Chau�Precinct)�
x Urban�Planning�Magazine�
Link: http://ashui.com/mag/congdong/kien-truc-su/8189-du-an-san-choi-an-my-hoi-an-thiet-ke-cung-
cong-dong.html
An My children playground (Hoi An city): designing with public involvement FRIDAY, 25TH JANUARY 2013 10:07 ASHUI.COM
In�order� to�develop�public�spaces� in�Hoi�An�with�public� involvement,�and� to�contribute� to�policy�advocacy� to�pass�guidelines�and�regulations� to�preserve�and�develop�public�spaces,��HealthBridge� Canada� and� � Action� For� The� City� (ACCD)� started� construction� of� An� My�playground� in� September� 2012.� After� three� months� of� construction� with� support� from�numerous�architects,�many�public�volunteers,�local�businesses,�craftsmen�and�local�officials,�An�My�playground�has�been�completed�and�is�expected�to�open�on�26th�January�2013.��
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 21
In the implementation, the architects took steps to facilitate and maximize community involvement.
Step�1:�Charrette�–�Public� involvement� in�designing�the�playground�at�the�culture�house.�
The�first�step�of�the�project�took�place�at�the�culture�house�of�An�My�ward.�Thirty�local�residents�and�four�architects� worked� together� for� three� consecutive�days.��
On� the� first� day,� the� architects� discussed� three�questions�with� local� residents:� (i)�what�activities�are�taking�place�at� the�culture�house;� (ii)�what�activities�are�expected�to�take�place�at�the�culture�house;�and�(iii)�what�activities�are�expected�not�to�take�place�at�the�culture�house.�Different�groups�by�age� (children,�women,� youth,� the� middleͲaged,� and� the� elderly)�discussed,� exchanged� ideas,� and� came� up� with�compromises� to� identify�an�optimal� solution� for� the�playground.�The�elderly�wanted�a�place�to�rest,�enjoy�tea� and� play� chess;� women� and� the� middle� aged�wanted�benches� for�rest;�youth�wanted�more�sports�activities;�and�children�wanted�more�play�equipment.�All�groups�wanted� to�have�a�swimming�pool.�Finally,�all� groups� agreed� to� give� priority� to� the� children’s�playground,�while�the�swimming�pool�option�was�put�on�the�waiting�list�for�a�later�budget.�Thus,�thirty�local�residents�agreed�on�a�final�briefing�for�the�architects.��
On�the�next�day,�the�architects�were�divided�into�two�teams� working� around� the� clock� to� develop� two�planning�options�from�the�briefing�of� local�residents.�Each� teams� included� one� architect� from� Hanoi� and�one�architect� from�Hoi�An.�They�worked�right�at�the�culture�house� in� an� open� space.� �All� local� residents�were� free� to� visit� and� give� comments.� In� order� to�facilitate� public� involvement,� a� functional� layout� of�the�playground�was�created,�and� then�a�mini�model�for� display� was� built� with� support� from� local�
������������������������������������������������������������1�Summarized�from�Wikipedia:�http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charrette�
�
What� is� a� charrette?�� The� term�"charrette"� is� derived� from� the�French�word� for�"little�cart."� In�Paris�during� the� 19th� century,� professors�at� the� Beaux� Arts� Universitycirculated�with� little� carts� to� collect�final�drawings�from�their�students.�As�architecture� students� were� always�overloaded� with� assignments,� they�would�jump�on�the�"charrette"�to�put�finishing� touches� on� their�presentation� minutes� before� the�deadline.� Charrette� is� thus�understood�as�“overloaded”.1�
“Charrette”� today� refers� to� an�intensive� planning� session� (typically�3Ͳ7� days)� where� experts� from�different� fields� work� together� with�the� community� on� a� joint� planning�solution,�generally� in�an�open� space�near� the� project� site,� usually� using�materials� such� as� clay� or� blocks� to�stimulate�ideas�and�allow�for��handsͲon,� practical� thinking.� Charrettes�provide� a� forum� for� ideas� and� offer�local�residents�the�unique�advantage�of�giving� immediate� feedback� to� the�designers.��
Charrettes� are� organized� to�encourage�participation�and� ideas�of�all� people,� including� but� not� limited�to� experts� from� different� fields,� in�the�design�process.��
�
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 22
residents.���
At�the�end�of�the�day,�local�residents�gathered�to�give�comments�for�the�two�design�options.�The�presentation�of�each�team�was�tense�and�interesting�as�everyone�tried�to�defend�their�ideas.�After�the�presentations,�local�residents�were�invited�to�discuss�and�vote�for�the�best�option.�While� at� the� beginning� people�were� dreaming� of� the� playground,� this� time� they�became�more�practical.�Everyone�was�concerned�about�the�project�feasibility�.�
On� the� third� day,� two� teams� of� architects� completed� their� proposals� and� made�presentations� to� the� public� and� local� authorities.� The� three� hot� topics� discussed� were�layouts� of� the� playground,� designing� solutions,� and� budget.� Small� details� regarding��engineering,�materials� and� price� were� also� discussed.� The� precinct’s� officials� gave� local�residents�an�opportunity� to�question�architects.�After� three� consecutive�days�of�working,�the�architects�continued�to�finalize�their�proposal,�incorporating�the�expressed�wishes�of�the�public.��
Project site - An My Culture House where Charrette and meetings with local residents took place
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 23
TThe local youth group discusses requirements for designing An My playground
Step� 2:� Interviewing� children� and� finalizing� the�proposal�
Upon� getting� approval� from� local� authorities� and�residents� through� the� Charrette,� the� 1+1>2�Architecture�team�was�assigned�to�develop�a�detailed�design�solution�for�the�playground�with�support�from�ACCD� staff,�ward�officers�and�volunteers.� “We�went�to� every� playground� in� Hoi� An� and� Da� nang� to�observe,� make� interviews� with� children� and� their�parents,� and� take� notes.� Sometimes�we� forgot� that�we�were�working� and� joined� in� the� children’s� play.�Finally,� we� asked� them� to� give� comments� for� our�design.� No� matter� how� many� types� of� equipment�there�were�in�the�playground,�children�never�seemed�satisfied.”� The� architects� had� to� adjust� their� design�many�times�so�that�children�could�get�more�ways�to�play:� climbing,� seeͲsaw,� ferris�wheel,� crawling� tube,�balanceͲwalking,� slides,� and� even� boxing..� The�architects� listened� to�both�children�and� their�parents�attentively�and� tried� to�balance� the�desires� of� the� two� groups:� the� children� wanted�more� risky� play� equipment� while� their�parents�were� very� concerned� about� safety.� �Making� the� children� happy�while� reassuring�
"Experiencing� the� Charrette� with�other� architects� and� local� residents�was�really�full�of�memorable�feelings.�We�hope�that�this�playground�will�be�used�by�An�My�residents�with�a�lot�of�pride� as� they� are� coͲauthors� of� the�development.� We� were� also�delighted� to� give� local� residents� a�chance� to� create� a� public� place� for�themselves.�Moreover,�the�architects�also�had�to� ignore�their�egos�and� let�the� community� express� their�creativity."��
Planning�Architect�Nguyen��o�Dung,�Chief�of�Charrette��
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 24
their�parents�was� the�biggest� challenge� to� the�architecture� team.� “Fortunately,�we�didn’t�have�to�face�deadline�pressure,�so�successive�rounds�of�negotiation�took�place�till�all�groups�felt� satisfied.”� The� architects� spent� a� lot� of� time� meeting,� talking,� reconciling� and�negotiating.� Instead� of�working� in� the� office,� they�worked� in� a� tea� shop,� on� the� school�grounds,� in�the�culture�house�meeting�hall,�and�even�by�the�edge�of�a�rice�paddy�(as� local�residents�are�mainly�farmers).�Compromise�was�the�order�of�the�day.�For�example,�the�need�for�practicality�resulted�in�the�idea�of�an�ecoͲfriendly�and�dreamlike�leaf�roof�being�replaced�by� corrugated� iron� to� ensure� resistance� to� flooding.� The� bottom� line� was� that� the�playground�was�being�built�for�the�public�so�it�should�respect�public�voices.��
Voting for play equipment in An My
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 25
A volunteer completes a mini model for the two proposed design options.
Presentation of design options
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 26
Local residents discuss prior to voting for the best option.
. Mini model 1 for the selected design option
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 27
Step� 3:� Constructing� the� playground� –� a� surprising�experience��
If� you� came� to� the� project� site,� you� couldn’t�distinguish�who�were� architects,�who�were� building�workers,� and� who� were� public� supervision� board�members.� The� public� supervision� board� joined� the�building�workers�to�level�the�ground,�drive�the�stakes�in� the� ground� and� fasten� the� floorboards.� The�building� workers� contributed� ideas� to� improve�quality,�whereas�the�architects�joined�hands�to�work.�Children� visited� the� project� site� frequently� and�commented�excitedly.���The�project�site�became�more�crowded� each� day� and� gradually� local� residents�completely� replaced� building� workers.� When� the�opening� day� had� nearly� arrived,� the� whole�community� flocked� to� the� site:� children� scooped�up�sand,�women�removed�weeds,�and�men�planted�trees�and�made� fences.�The� labor� cost�was�down�but� the�total� costs� were� up� as� the� community� suggested�more� equipment.� The� journey� seemed� to� be� endless.� Many� unanticipated� challenges�occurred.�“First�of�all,�children�always�found�ways�to�break�into�the�construction�site.�They�could�not�wait�till�the�opening�of�the�playground�so�we�had�to�enhance�security.�Next,�we�had� to�maintain�public� involvement�without� causing� any�delays� to� the�work.�Community�members�wished�to�contribute�their�efforts�to�building�the�playground,�but�they�were�very�busy�too.�We�had�to�figure�out�how�to�coordinate�public�contributions�such�as�leveling�the�ground,� driving� stakes,�making� fences,� and� planting� trees�with� the�work� of� the� building�workers.�We�learned�to�work�leisurely�but�still�ensured�progress.”�
Children supported the building of the playground
"Designing� and� constructing� An�My�playground� wqs� a� journey� full� of�feelings.� Local� residents,� building�workers� and� children� were� always�our�companions.�They�proposed�a�lot�of�ideas�and�we�were�very�pleased�to�include� their� ideas� in� our� design.�Personally,� I� think� the� most�memorable� moment� that� I� have�witnessed� was� when� the� children�gave�one�another�a�hug�as�they�knew�that� the� playground� would� openwithin�two�weeks."�
Architect� PhҢm� �ӈc� Trung,�1+1>2�Architecture�Company�
�
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 28
While building workers were completing the project, local children got acquainted with the new playground
The previously wild grassplot became a playground for children.
Step�4:�Maintaining�the�playgroundͲ�a�creative�solution�
The�most�challenging�aspect�was�how� to�maintain� the�playground� sustainably.�Numerous�recommendations�were�proposed��such�as�taking�VND�2Ͳ3�million/year�from�the�community�fund,�raising�funds�from�local�enterprises,�and�applying�for�a�budget�from�local�authorities.�The�most�creative� idea�was� to� invite�a� local� resident�who� lived�next� to� the�playground� to�open�a�tea�shop�to�serve�children�playing�and�their�parents.�One�part�of�the�proceeds�would�go� to� the�maintenance� fund.�The� shop�owner�would�benefit� from�good�conditions�of� the�playground� and� thus� have� a� direct� motivation� to� help� with� maintenance.� From� the�
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 29
beginning�to�the�end,�the�An�My�playground�project�always�contained�surprising�elements�due�to�the�continuous�creativity�of�local�residents,�the�1+1�>2�team,�and�other�participants.��
An�My�playground�project�
Ͳ�Location:�An�My�ward,�Cam�Chau�precint,�Hoi�An�City�Ͳ�Total�investment:�VND�180�million�(of�which�the�community�contributed�VND�20�million,�the�ward�contributed�VND�10�million,�local�businesses�contributed�VND�30�million�and�HealthBridge�Canada�contributed�VND�120�million)�Ͳ�Development�time:�3�months�Ͳ�Project�Management:�Action�for�The�City�Ͳ�Charrette:�Planning�Architect�NguyҴn��ҽ�Dƹng�&�Cultural�Heritage�Preserving�Service�Consultant�and�Construction�Company�Ͳ�Architectural�Design�and�supervision:��1+1>2�Company�
An�My�playground�was�the�first�and�model�project�for�innovating�and�building�playgrounds�and�public�spaces�in�Hoi�An.�It�is�hoped�that�this�project�will�facilitate�public�involvement�in�the� development� of� public� and� open� spaces� in�Hoi�An� as�well� as� other� cities� across� the�country.���
Author:�PhҢm��ӈc�Trung,�1+1>2�Architecture�Office�and��ҭng�HӇҿng�Giang,�Action�for�The�City�
(Posted�on�Urban�Planning�Magazine�Ͳ�Volume�13,�Jan/2013)�
x Culture�and�Sport�newspaper�
Link:� http://vn.news.yahoo.com/thi%E1%BA%BFt-k%E1%BA%BF-s%C3%A2n-ch%C6%A1i-tr%E1%BA%BB-em-ng%E1%BA%A1c-nhi%C3%AAn-011500428.html�
�
2. Media�articles�about�Cam�Thanh�Playground�–�Cam�Thanh�Commune�
x Hoi�An�City�website�
Link:�http://baoquangnam.com.vn/xa-hoi/201307/khu-vui-choi-cap-thon-316195/�
Launching�a�CanadaͲdonated�children’s�playground���Wednesday,�13th�March�2013�00:03�Early� on� the� 10th� of�March,� the� People’s� Committee� of� Cam� Thanh� Commune� officially�launched� the�children’s�playground�at� the�Culture�and�Sports�Center�of� the�commune.�All�the� playground� equipment� were� sponsored� by� Action� for� The� City� and� Castle� Downs�Recreation�Society�(Canada)�with�the�total�value�of�CAD�196,000�and�installed�by�volunteers�
�
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Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 30
from�Alberta�State�(Canada).�
The�People’s�Committee�of�Cam�Thanh�Commune� contributed�VND�80�million�and� raised�nearly�400�voluntary�working�days�from�the�community�to�clear�the�site�and�install�the�play�equipment.�Furthermore,�some�economic�and�social�societies�in�the�locality�contributed�to�the�project�by�planting�trees�and�installing�equipment,�valued�at�VND�20�million.���
Delegates at the launching ceremony
Canadian volunteers installing play equipment
x Video�Clip�of�installing�the�playground�equipment�on�CTV�News�Canada�
Link:�http://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/postcardsͲfromͲvietnamͲprojsectͲplayground�
�
���������������ACTION�FOR�THE�CITY�
Building�Neighborhood�Playgrounds:�Lessons�from�the�field�
� 31
�3. Media�articles�about�Thanh�Tam�Tay�playground�–�Cam�Thanh�Commune�
�
x Quңng�Nam�Newspaper:�
Link:�http://baoquangnam.com.vn/xa-hoi/201307/khu-vui-choi-cap-thon-316195/�
�
Wednesday, 14th August 2013
A hamlet children’s playground Monday, 1st July 2013, 09:48 [GMT+7]
A�new�playground�has�been� launched� in�Thanh�Tam�Tay�hamlet,�Cam�Thanh�commune,�Hoi�An�City,�which�has�made�local�residents�excited�as�for�the�first�time�their�children�can�enjoy�a�green�and�environmentally�friendly�neighborhood�playground�of�their�own.��
Efforts:�
Cam�Thanh�has�always�led�union�activities�and�emulation�movements�of�the�city,�which�has�helped�the�commune�not�only�to�get�considerable�financial� incentives�from�the�city�(which�Quang�Nam�Newspaper�mentioned� in� the�article� “Performance� rewards�by�projects”)�but�also� to� attract� donations� from� international� nonͲprofit� organizations.� The� communal�government� has� been� very� flexible� in� utilizing� these� financial� sources� to� invest� in� public�developments.��
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A corner of Thanh Tam Tay hamlet playground, which sits
within the precinct of Cam Thanh communal center of sports and culture. Photograph: VAN AN
The� communal� center� of� sports� and� culture,�which� had� already� been� equipped�with� an�artificial�turf�football�field�and�a�club�house,�now�has�become�more�convenient�with�a�new�and� attractive� children’s� playground.� The� launch� of� the� new� children’s� playground� has�manifested�the�local�government’s�investment�priority�for�the�next�generations,�democracy,�and� openness� to� public� ideas.� The� playground� was� developed� for� the� residents� of� the�hamlet.� It� contains� sufficient� play� equipment� and� opens� daily.� In� addition� to� some�traditional� euqipment� such� as� swings,� seeͲsaw,� and� slides,� there� is� also� some� new�equipment�such�as�a�zipline�and�step�ladders.�
“This�playground�is�very�interesting,�close�to�my�house�and�completely�free�of�charge.�From�now�on,�we�don’t�need�to�bike�to�playgrounds�downtown.�This�is�really�a�big�gift�to�us�this�summer.”� Ͳ�Minh�NhҨt,� a� 7th� grade� student� at�Huynh� Thi� Luu� Secondary� School,� shared.�Adults�not�only�take�their�children�to�the�playground�but�also�join�them�for�playing.�
The�most� significant�occurrence� this� summer� is� that�children�will�be�guided�with� summer�activities�by�Youth�Union�members�after�exciting�play�hours�at�the�playground�(starting�from�4:00� P.M).� Children� will� be� divided� into� small� groups� to� compete� with� one� another� in�collecting� waste� paper,� making� flowers� from� recycled� materials,� painting� for� the�environment�and�safe�traffic.�“Previously�when�the�playground�wasn’t�built,�I�only�stayed�at�home�to�help�my�mom.�Sometimes,�I�went�downtown�for�playing.�It�will�be�very�interesting�this�summer.”�
The�innovation�in�union�activities�together�with�the�diversification�of�summer�activities�have�contributed�to�a�successful�communal�Youth�Union� in�Cam�Thanh,�which�provides�children�
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with�a�healthy�playground�to�meet,�play,�exchange�knowledge,�enhance�soft�skills,�and�avoid�unhealthy�activities.�
Proper�management�is�needed�
The� construction� of� the� playgrounds� brought� real� benefits� to� the� community� and� was�strongly�supported�by� the�residents.�However,�how� to�manage� the�playground�properly� is�still�a�topic�of�debate.�After�completion,�the�playground�was�handed�over�to�the�hamlet,�but�the� hamlet� only� “manages”� the� playground� in� term� of� safeguarding� its� equipment� and�looking�after�the� landscape.�But�what�matters�most� in�the�management�of�a�playground� is�the�children’s�safety.�Though�the�regulations�have�been�posted�at�the�playground,�it�is�very�difficult� to� keep� children� from� breaking� the� rules,� because� most� of� them� go� to� the�playground� without� parental� supervision.� There� has� been� a� burglary� in� a� playground�recently.�While�busy�on� the�play�equipment,�an�8th�grade� student�mistook�a� thief� for� the�security�officer�and�hardly�noticed�him�when�he�ran�away.�Fortunately,�after�some�weeks�of�investigation,�police�found�the�lost�electric�bike.�There�have�also�been�some�minor�accidents�leading� to� ankle� sprains� and� grazes.�Despite� the� fact� that� those� incidents�have�not�been�serious,�it�is�still�urgent�to�designate�persons�in�charge�of�keeping�children�safe�and�looking�after�their�belongings�in�the�playground.���
With�proper�management,� the�playground�will�become�a�wonderful�place� for�all�children�and�local�residents,�especially�in�summertime.�With�great�benefits�from�the�playground,�it�is�expected� that� there�would�be�more�playgrounds�built� in� the� future� to�meet� the�needs�of�local� residents,� and� that� the� playgrounds�will� initiate� emulation�movements� among� the�community�and�authorities.�
VAN�AN�
x Kiұn�Viҵt�newspaper�
Link:�http://kienviet.net/2013/06/13/mot-vai-hinh-anh-san-choi-thon-thanh-tam-tay-cam-thanh-tp-hoi-an/�
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Kien Viet 13th June 2013, 08:51
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Some images of Thanh Tam Tay playground, Cam Thanh commune, Hӝi An City
kienviet.net� –� Residents� of� Thanh� Tam� Tay� hamlet,� Cam� Thanh� commune,� Hoi� An� City,��ogether�with� �Action� for� The�City� (ACCD),�HealthBridge� (Canada),� the�1+1>2�Architecture��Team�and�representatives�from� local�authorities,�have�organized�an�opening�ceremony�for�the�newly�developed�neighborhood�playgrounds.��
Developer: HealthBridge�(Canada),�Action�for�the�City�(ACCD),�Cam�Thanh�Communal�People�Committee,�Tham�Tam�Tay�hamlet��Location:�Thanh�Tam�Tây�hamlet,�Cam�Thanh�Commune,�Hoi�An�City�Design:�1+1>2�Architecture�Team�Architects:�Pham��uc�Trung,�Nguyen�Thi�Minh�Thuy,�Hoang�Thuc�Hao�Design�year:�3.2013�Completion�year:�6.2013�Investment:�VND�223�million�and�working�days�of�70�local�residents.�
Architects�had� to� harmonize� their�design�with� the� complicated� shape�of� the� lot,� seeking�ways� to� keep� all� big� and� old� trees.� They� tried� to� create� running� routes,�which� varied� in�height,�and�playing�spaces,�which�varied�to�the�movement�of�players.��
The�play�equipment�is�simple�but�require�children�to�play�in�teams.��
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The�materials�used�are� steel,�nulgar�bamboo,� corrugated� iron� sheets,�and�other� recycled�materials�such�as�car�tires.�
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Source: kienviet.net