Reflecting on the planning of green child-friendly spaces pertaining to different socio-economic gradients

Abstract

Ongoing urbanisation, loss of biodiversity and development pressures are exposing our children to unhealthy and unfit environments. Children of today are growing up locked indoors and afraid of the outdoor environment, due to factors such as; crime, poverty, road safety and lack of open spaces. Unaware of the natural environment and suppressed from connecting with the outside world, children still need to find themselves. Globally a concept child-friendly spaces (CFS) emerged to tackle these inequalities that children experience with the world outside. The concept is an approach to meet the needs of children as well as allowing them to feel safe, secure and part of the outdoor environment. However, not only are children suppressed but natural green spaces in our cities as well. Nature is a fundamental factor in the development of healthy and happy children and produces significant physiological and physiologic benefits. Children need to be outside, connect with nature and explore who they are. Therefore, the need to develop green CFS is occurring and new perspectives and approaches are needed to enhance the spatial planning regimes. The research conducted provides insight into the planning of green CFS for different socio-economic classes, recognising the different user values and perceptions linked to green CFS. Evaluation of best practices for green CFS in high and low socio-economic areas were assessed, and professional opinions and perspectives pertaining to the planning of green CFS were gained in attempt to draw conclusions and recommendations for the planning of green CFS in the local context.