From proximity to inclusion: A new framework for urban green space policy

Urban green spaces in UK cities are vital to health and wellbeing and provide multiple benefits across many areas of city life. However, access remains unequal, especially for marginalised communities including people with disabilities, ethnic minorities, the elderly and children, and people living in areas of high deprivation. These groups face accessibility barriers that can be addressed through structural changes to the governance of parks.

Based on empirical evidence from previous research in Bristol, and a knowledge exchange event with local authority officers, councillors and others involved in green space governance in the West of England, the policies suggested in this document represent an implementation pathway for inclusive governance.

These policy and structural changes mainly relate to linking park funding streams to health funding, given the multiple benefits these spaces provide; addressing the lack of statutory status for parks within local authority governance; securing maintenance funds alongside initial project funds; and formalising the roles of community groups in park governance. These policies have implications for the National Planning Policy Framework and the Accessible Green Space Standards.

Authors: Zina Abdulla, Dr Dima Albadra, Dr Sophia Hatzisavvidou and Dr Nick McCullen.

Published July 2026.