Present security of the neighbourhood urban parks considering SARS-CoV-2 potential spreading – A case study in Ursynów district in Warsaw

Abstract

Motives: It is expected that COVID-19 pandemic will impact future design, use and perception of urban green spaces such as public parks. How to facilitate residents’ safe use of the urban green spaces and reduce health risks has become important question to consider by landscape architects and municipal authorities responsible for the public green areas resources. This research focuses on examination of urban parks of a typical residential district of a large city in terms of their security in time of COVID-19 pandemic. Aim: In urban parks of Ursynów district in Warsaw were assessed: quality and present security and possibilities of re-adjustments to increase their security. Results: Ursynów district has good quality, accessible parks. Larger parks offer picnic areas and shelters, have more than one, entrance and paths with widening for benches. All playgrounds are enclosed with gates to install dispenser for hand sanitization. Gates and knobs are made of metal allowing frequent disinfection. Benches and tables are usually properly distanced and those in shelters may be marked ‘for visitors from one social bubble only’ but in the future an emphasis should be put on more scattered pattern of park furniture. All parks are equipped with trash cans, but usually open or semi-closed, which should be avoided.