Why parks are vital in cities and built-up areas
Back in the early 1970s, a housing project in Bradford was undertaken to modernise an area of terraced housing rather than replace it with new build flats in tower blocks elsewhere in the city.
The economic argument was that it would be cheaper to refurbish the stone built houses than to build new flats. The social argument was that the existing residents wanted to stay in the area and remain in their own homes.
One problem was that most of the houses had no outdoor space: no gardens, no back yards and not even any communal area for hanging out washing.
There was, however, a piece of waste land right in the middle of the area and it was sensibly decided that this could be used to create a neighbourhood, shared garden and mini park.
After consultation with the residents, a plan was drawn up that included a play area for children, a small sports area and a quiet corner with benches for older residents, surrounded by shrubs and planting which would give both some privacy and provide a natural backdrop.
The local authority undertook the refurbishment of the houses whilst the residents were required to find donations and sponsors for materials for the garden square and do the work.
This they did with gusto! This succeeded in giving true ownership to the surrounding community and also minimised the maintenance of the gardens since the users would take better care of their new environment.
When the scheme was finished, it was regarded as such a great success that a neighbourhood party was arranged and it was agreed that this should be a trip to the seaside. Bridlington was chosen, coaches were booked and a picnic on the beach was to be set up by an “advance group” with games and activities for all.
The evening before the excursion, one little girl had a very nasty accident and was taken to hospital where her leg was set in a plaster cast from hip to ankle and it was declared that she was unfit to travel.
Not surprisingly, she was devastated but was advised that she could join in the fun if she was taken separately lying across the back seat of a car. This was arranged and her disappointment quickly turned to excitement.
On the way to the coast, cows in fields were pointed out to her and as she had never been outside central Bradford, these were the first such animals that she had ever seen. “That’s where your milk comes from” she was informed. “No, no!” she retorted between bursts of giggling. “Milk comes from The Express Dairy. I’ve seen the milk floats.”
Covid pandemic lockdowns have brought the realisation that some outdoor space, especially in hot weather, is essential to our wellbeing.
Not surprisingly, our parks, particularly in cities and other densely populated areas, have been filled with people relaxing, enjoying the greenery, flower beds, exercising, picnicking, playing games or just having a snooze.
Not every home is fortunate enough to have a garden or balcony. The challenge for local authorities is to maintain parks at a time when costs have increased.
Not an enviable task as there is so much pressure to support other needs. One solution is to promote the idea of community involvement and this has already been established in some cities. This could also help to reinforce a sense of ownership of and respect for all public facilities.