From the archive: Why walking and urban green space are good for each other

 ‘…it is not just the quantity of green space provision that is important, but its quality and purpose.’ 

While meandering through the city, it is always a pleasant experience to come across a green oasis, providing a much-needed respite from the fast-paced whirl and chaos of the city streets. 

Dr Sally Cairns’ article ‘Why walking and urban green space are good for each other’ in the April 2001 edition of outlines how the provision of welcoming urban green spaces and the promotion of active travel go hand in hand. At the time of writing, Cairns argued that ‘the role of green space seems to be overlooked in promoting walking, equally the role of walking seems to have been relatively neglected in the promotion of green space.’ 

Cairns draws on a range of studies from the UK and the USA, highlighting the ways in which urban green spaces make it more appealing for people to walk in cities, while also providing an opportunity to re-connect with nature.  

The connectivity between walking routes and green spaces 

One of article’s recurring themes is the need to consider connectivity between walking routes and green spaces. Too often, parks and green spaces are enclosed by fences that require users to deviate from their route to enter them. Yet, Cairns highlights research that shows people are often drawn to places ‘only a few steps off their normal routes’. The research by William Whyte found that public green space in New York that was ‘only fuzzily separated’ from the street were often the most popular. 

Additionally, the provision of ample seating was found to make a public space more inviting, encouraging people to stay for longer periods of time, while also making walking more accessible. This could be achieved by providing benches. However, it was also noted that other features of urban design, such as planters, walls, and even the rim of a fountain, can all serve as seating if they are a suitable height. 

Perhaps, most importantly, urban green spaces need to feel safe and welcoming for all, with consideration given to aspects of design such as lighting and sight lines. The presence of other people in urban green spaces can be seen to have a positive multiplier effect, due to perceived security benefits, but also for the simple pleasures of being together, socialising, and people-watching. 

The benefits of urban green space 

Cairns’ article demonstrates the multifaceted benefits that well-designed urban green spaces can have for people, from encouraging active travel, providing much-needed access to nature, as well as creating opportunities for human connection. All of which remain important over 20 years later, and examples of urban green space can be found in the TCPA’s Practical Hope case studies, such as Incredible Edible Leeds and Sunnyside Community Gardens. 

‘Yet for many people life is so hectic that a glimpse of beauty on the walk to the office or a tranquil spot for a hasty lunch break may be as important to quality of life as the creation of large specialist havens.’ 

Link to archive: Why walking and urban green space are good for each other from the August 2001 edition of Town and Country Planning