Architects, OBO back plan to convert parking lots into green spaces

CEBU, Philippines — The United Architects of the Philippines- Cebu Chapter (UAP-CC) and the Cebu City’s Office of the Building Official (OBO) have supported the approval of an ordinance seeking to transform open parking spaces to green spaces.

Both interposed no objection to the said plan.

UAP-CC President Architect Jan Frances Lee, in yesterday’s public hearing, said the proposal “will contribute greatly in reducing the heat effect and average service water runoff that causes flood in the city.”

“It will also change the perception that parking spaces are just that,” he said.

Architect Florante Catalan, OBO head, said his office is also in favor of the proposed measure.

He said though a certification should be issued by the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) and City Environment Natural Resources Office (CENRO) as to compliance reflected on the stated plans.

OBO recommended that 30 percent of the open spaces or green spaces will be for subdivision, while 15 to 20 percent will be for buildings of lot development.

Councilor Jerry Guardo, who penned the proposed ordinance "The Green Open Parking Space,” said it aims to conserve and protect the environment.

“It is one of the measures of the city government to environmental conservation and protection, especially with the rapid development of real estates and land development projects,” he said.

The proposed ordinance covers all open parking spaces or lots used for commercial and industrial purposes.

Since most of the parking spaces in the city are bare and open, this proposed ordinance aims to have the placement of trees in between parking space of the vehicles to “provide shade and a greener city to the public.”

Guardo said the ordinance will establish policies like maintaining of green parking standards to mitigate the impacts on environmental degradation.

It will also require the establishments to plan and integrate green environmental spaces prior to any development parking spaces.

Implementing agencies will also be assigned for the inspection, evaluation and certification of the project by CCENRO, CPDO, City Engineering Office, and OBO for proper execution of the provisions of the said ordinance.  KQD (FREEMAN)