Improving access to greenspace: a new review for 2020

Evidence shows that living in a greener environment can promote and protect good health, and aid in recovery from illness and help with managing poor health. People who have greater exposure to green space have a range of more favourable physiological outcomes. Greener environments are also associated with better mental health and wellbeing outcomes including reduced levels of depression, anxiety, and fatigue, and enhanced quality of life for both children and adults. However, population growth and consequent urbanisation combined with competing demands for land use and budgetary constraints are putting many existing local, accessible green spaces under threat.

Public Health England published a report on improving access to green spaces in the UK, making the case that we must not lose sight of our growing population’s need for green spaces. It is intended to provide Local Authorities, particularly public health teams, with the tools to make the case for maintaining or even increasing provision of and equitable access to green space, and growing the wider network of green infrastructure, especially through the planning system. This report offers policy, practice and research recommendations for local government and those working in partnership with it.

Access the review here.