What Does The Future Of Urban Green Space Look Like?

As a nation, we have probably had more exposure to and interaction with green and natural spaces in the last 12 months than in the previous 12 years. According to The People and Nature Survey for England, led by Natural England and published in March 2021, almost half the population say they have spent more time outside since COVID-19 hit and believe that nature and wildlife is more important than ever to their wellbeing.

Based on the growing body of evidence that links encounters with nature to our mental and physical wellbeing, this makes a lot of sense in the midst of a global pandemic. 

Nature divide

But what about the half of the population that didn't spend as much time outside? Why was this? The reasons are complex but access, availability and opportunity to visit green spaces is clearly a major factor. Urban life, dominated by high-rise buildings, narrow roads and a lack of green infrastructure, excludes many city residents from having any kind of