From what I've observed it's to stop roots causing swell and uplifts, but i would be amenable to soft footpaths all round,
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In Sydney, it's in front of pubs so they don't damage the pavement unloading the kegs
We used to joke it's so when the bouncers throw drunk idiots out at 3AM, they don't get hurt too badly.
It's for adding a spring to your step and to bring a smile to your face.
It probably depends on where you are talking about. Sometimes it is a temporary section when the path has been removed to access pipes etc. underneath. They can easily resurface with asphalt to create a safe walking surface as a temporary measure until the concrete can be replaced.