Create a Formal Notion of Pseudo-Public Space

Text of the Policy
 Whether you are looking for open and accessible space in Canada, there are many places that are private and yet modern life strongly encourages you into. Shopping centres, walkways, parks, congregating and open areas around buildings: these spaces have become so important to people that it is time to start recognizing that citizens have rights in them, despite being privately owned.
 * The Pirate Party intends to define a legal notion of “pseudo-public space” which is space that, while privately owned, has become woven into the lives of citizens and is a regular part of their routines. The rights that Canadians enjoy in public places should also apply to these pseudo-public places.

Rationales

 * Private companies who increasingly owns the public greenspaces or other public spaces cannot arbitrarily or selectively restrict public access, and normal rights accorded to the public in such spaces, by using private property as a reason. The owners often get special concessions from the government for providing these spaces. Some developments are required to provide such spaces.
 * Public should not be threatened or feel uncertaint about accessing such spaces.

Snippet of Discussions

 * It does not apply to places where entrance fees are required or places for conducting business (e,g, stores).
 * I think this proposal is to end the limbo area where Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS) on a regular basis is treated as public when it suits the owner and private when they want to restrict it against a specific group or use.

Possible Misinformations
Myth:  Fact:

Related News or Articles

 * How to Make Privately Owned Public Spaces Truly Open to the Public (Citylab.com)
 * The Seduction of Privately Owned Publicly Spaces
 * Zuccotti Park and the Private Plaza Problem

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