Social Upliftment as a Result of Green Space Provision in Rural Communities

Abstract

Rural communities, especially those within the South African context, are faced with daily challenges – most of which are associated with a lack of basic social provisions, needs and spaces. This paper introduces the concept of green space planning as an alternative planning approach to address these social challenges within rural South African communities. It provides a comparative study between social challenges experienced in South Africa and the benefits provided by green spaces; introducing green space provision as an alternative planning method to address social challenges, especially those prevalent in rural South African communities. By providing successful and sufficient green spaces, numerous rural challenges are addressed and an overall upliftment of the communities’ mental and physical well-being, social inclusion and quality of life is established.