Open space

Open space is understood as non built-up or basically undeveloped (often near-natural) land for which no major development is foreseen in spatial plans. In addition to sites dominated by agriculture or forestry, as well as minimally developed rural areas, natural spaces with a high potential for compensation and regeneration are suitable as ecologically efficient open spaces.

[Source: Lexikon der Geowissenschaften (2000), Spektrum Akademischer Verlag, Heidelberg - Berlin]

In contrast to open space, urban open space are small plots within settlement boundaries (Note: urban planners frequently designate such spaces as open space).

The three spatial components settlement, transportation and open space are complementary elements that together constitute a complete reference area (total area = 100 %).