local spaces
Thoughtful gardening has many aspects. The use of public open spaces, parks and gardens being a good case in point. Open spaces are often in the public light for extremely negative impacts. Vandalism, anti social behaviours, drug and alcohol abuse for example. These become more damaging if they create a lack of interest, or "ownership" by the local community. It is a complex issue
There is considerable data on the benefits of open spaces for individuals and local communities. Authors Julian Dobson, Cathy Harris, Will Eadson, Tony Gore wrote a groundbreaking report for the National Lottery in 2019 called "Space To Thrive". It's key findings were
1. Access to and use of parks and green spaces enhance physical health, mental wellbeing and life satisfaction
2. Parks can create important opportunities for social integration
3. Parks provide opportunities for community engagement
4. Parks and green spaces highlight inequalities in society
5. Parks and green spaces enable people to connect with nature, which enhances their sense of wellbeing
6. Parks and green spaces can have economic benefits
The full report is here https://www.heritagefund.org.uk/sites/default/files/media/attachments/Space%20to%20thrive_2019-A%20rapid%20evidence%20review%2014102019-accessible.pdf
There is considerable data on the benefits of open spaces for individuals and local communities. Authors Julian Dobson, Cathy Harris, Will Eadson, Tony Gore wrote a groundbreaking report for the National Lottery in 2019 called "Space To Thrive". It's key findings were
1. Access to and use of parks and green spaces enhance physical health, mental wellbeing and life satisfaction
2. Parks can create important opportunities for social integration
3. Parks provide opportunities for community engagement
4. Parks and green spaces highlight inequalities in society
5. Parks and green spaces enable people to connect with nature, which enhances their sense of wellbeing
6. Parks and green spaces can have economic benefits
The full report is here https://www.heritagefund.org.uk/sites/default/files/media/attachments/Space%20to%20thrive_2019-A%20rapid%20evidence%20review%2014102019-accessible.pdf
Above. Manor Park Gardens where First Avenue joins the A27 in Lancing, West Sussex
Above. Lancing Manor allotments 12th December 2020. Each one is an expression and illustration of the individuals involved
