The geography of public space in Sackville

Abstract

Sackville is in a unique position in that much of the town relies on Mount Allison University, which is located in the centre of town. Because of the location of the university, much of the central area of town acts as an extension of the campus for students. However, this relationship often seems to be one-way. Residents of town who are not employed by the university do not seem to make use of the campus in the same way students make use of town. Similarly, there are many public spaces in Sackville that residents frequent but students rarely go to. This research will look at a number of public spaces in Sackville, as well as a few buildings on the Mount Allison University that are open to the public and are sometimes treated as public spaces. Discussion will focus on concerns over accessibility as well as the development of space that can better serve the diverse needs of the community of Sackville, residents and students alike.