Urban Green Space Policies: Performance and Success Conditions in European Cities



investment and tourism. Therefore, they can contribute positively to the competitiveness of
cities. On the other hand, urban green spaces have many contributions to social and economic
life, and to the ecological and planning system, and as a whole to the urban quality of life.
Many studies refer to the contributions of urban green spaces from several perspectives
including social, economic, ecological or planning dimensions (Baycan-Levent and Nijkamp,
2002, 2004, Baycan-Levent et al., 2003, Dole, 1989; De Groot, 1994; DTLR, 2001; Jacobs,
1961; Hart, 1997; Hough, 1984; Hueting, 1970; Priemus, 1999; Rodenburg et al., 2002,
Scottish Executive, 2001; Stanners and Bourdeau, 1995).

From a social perspective, particular types of green space can offer a bigger diversity of land
uses and opportunities for a wide range of activities, help to foster active lifestyles, and can
be of real benefit to health. Well- managed and maintained green spaces contribute to social
justice by creating opportunities for people of all ages to interact (Scottish Executive, 2001).
Urban green spaces emphasise the diversity of urban areas by reflecting the different
communities they serve and meeting their varying needs. They enhance cultural life by
providing venues for local festivals, civic celebrations and theatrical performances. Urban
green spaces provide safe play space for children (Jacobs, 1961, cited in Haughton and
Hunter, 1994), contribute to children’s physical, mental and social development (Hart, 1997)
and play an important role in the basic education of schoolchildren with regard to the
environment and nature.

From a planning perspective, a network of high quality green spaces linking residential areas
with business, retail and leisure developments can help to improve the accessibility and
attractiveness of local facilities and employment centres. Well-designed networks of green
spaces help to encourage people to travel safely by foot or by bicycle for recreation or
commuting (Scottish Executive, 2001). Furthermore, well-designed urban green spaces
provide a barrier to noise and can function as a visual screen (Dole, 1989, cited in Haughton
and Hunter, 1994).

From an economic perspective, a green space might deliver products such as wood or fruits
and also compost and energy as a result of urban green production. Their presence can create
an increase in the economic value of an area and provides newjobs.



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