Examining Spatial Inequalities in Public Green Space Accessibility: A Focus on Disadvantaged Groups in England

Abstract

Green spaces have been recognised for their positive impact on residents’ health and well-being. However, equitable access to these spaces remains a concern as certain social groups face barriers to reaching public green areas (PGS). Existing studies have explored the relationship between green spaces and vulnerable populations but have often overlooked the spatial variations in accessibility experienced by these groups. This research aimed to investigate the spatial association between green space accessibility and five key variables representing vulnerability: age, educational deprivation, health deprivation, crime rates, and housing barriers. Ordinary least squares and multi-scale geographically weighted regression (MGWR) techniques were employed to analyse the relationship between the nearest distance to public green spaces and the challenges experienced by vulnerable groups based on socioeconomic factors in England. The findings highlight disparities in open green space access for vulnerable groups, particularly older adults and individuals with limited education and housing accessibility, who are more likely to face restricted access to green spaces. There was a negative correlation found between health deprivation and the accessibility of green spaces, indicating people who suffer from the disease may live closer to green spaces. Surprisingly, although a positive association was observed between crime risk and distance to public green space in most areas, there were specific areas that exhibit a negative correlation between them. This study emphasises the importance of considering the perspectives of vulnerable groups in addressing PGS inequality and underscores the need for inclusive public green space planning and policy development.