'Is the park really going to be public space?'

'Is the park really going to be public space?'

Many people, including noted public figures and scholars, are
opposed the Jakarta administration's plan to convert the Menteng
Soccer Stadium into a city park. They believe that the stadium
should be preserved for its historic value. The Jakarta Post
asked residents for their comments on the proposal.

Sri Hudani, 50, is an employee at the management of the Bung
Karno Sports Complex. She lives on Jl. Melati in Taman Kedaung,
South Jakarta:

I would prefer that Menteng Soccer Stadium in Central Jakarta
not be converted into a city park because residents still need
places for sporting activities.

The stadium indeed looks rather dull because the
administration have not been taking care of it. The city doesn't
have to convert the whole place into a park just to beautify the
area.

I'm not surprised that many people oppose the conversion plan,
because the stadium is probably the only place spacious enough
for residents to do their daily exercise.

I suspect that the construction of a park will only serve as a
avenue for businesses to find a spot in a strategic area. I heard
that the administration will be inviting investors to open cafes
there.

Tubagus Haryo Karbyanto, 36, is a public advocate, whose
office is on Jl. Soeparmono, Menteng Dalam, South Jakarta. He
lives in Pondok Rangon, East Jakarta:

Has the city administration consulted with residents about its
plan to convert Menteng Soccer Stadium into a city park? Any plan
is okay by me as long as residents agree with it, because they
know better what they really need.

A second question, is that the plan in accordance with the
city's spatial plan?

Even if the two requirements met, the city should only go
ahead with the plan on one condition: That the park will really
become a public space, not an exclusive venue for the rich.

I won't agree with the administration's plan to equip the park
with a parking lot, which contradicts the function of a park. No
vehicles should be allowed. Only pedestrians or residents who
live within walking distance from the park should come.

--The Jakarta Post