What if...
What if...
...no one created new parks?
Parks make you feel better. A cared-for park helps you feel good about the area you live in. It can provide opportunities for socialising and exercise.
This isn’t just wishful thinking on the part of planners. A study in 2002 by researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental School found that pensioners living near city parks had a longer life expectancy than those who didn’t have access to green spaces.
The charity Green Space reports that children with attention deficit disorder are more able to concentrate when they have plenty of contact with the natural environment.
While parks can help people who are stressed or have mental health problems gain a better sense of wellbeing, they also help save the taxpayer money by promoting better physical health. A regular brisk walk can help prevent heart disease and obesity – so much so that some GP practices are now prescribing exercise to patients who are at risk.
In Chester-le-Street, County Durham, a scheme called Footsteps to Fitness helps people get used to the idea of regular walking with Sunday morning three- or four-mile guided walks twice a month.
For children, a park with a playground or activity area can provide a welcome opportunity to take exercise and let off steam in a safe environment. This is especially important as concerns grow about the rise in childhood obesity.
By 2008, the Department for Communities and Local Government wants most local areas in England to have at least one good quality green space that’s worthy of a Green Flag award.
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