User experience of neighbourhood greenspace and perceived impact on health and wellbeing: the case of an urban extension to a ‘Healthy New Town’ in England

Abstract

ABSTRACT Recognising the provision of public greenspace in urban areas as a key tool to supporting health and wellbeing, the UK government has committed to ensuring that, by 2043, all citizens can reach greenspace within 15 minutes from their homes. However, it is increasingly acknowledged that simply providing access to greenspace may not be enough to ensure that positive benefits are realised. Characteristics including their accessibility, size, aesthetics, features, condition and safety can all distinguish between greenspaces that encourage visitation and those that are uninviting. This paper reports a neighbourhood-level study of the residential development of Kingsmere, which forms a significant urban extension to Bicester, England, and was developed as part of the government-funded ‘Healthy New Town’ programme. A cross-sectional survey, including follow-up interviews, was conducted to investigate residents’ use of different types of greenspace, satisfaction, and the perceived impact on personal health and wellbeing. Findings reveal that the provision of a variety of greenspaces within a 15-20-minute walk of homes has been effective in terms of use and satisfaction but that attention to access within sites, perceived safety, cleanliness and maintenance are important factors that could encourage greater use and enhance user satisfaction.