Why are green spaces so
important in our cities?
There is an increasing body of evidence and understanding around the mental and physical health benefits that urban green spaces can have for our people and communities.
This is backed up by the findings of the 2010 Marmot review which highlighted that access to good quality green space is key to tackling health inequalities, a key strategic priority for Edinburgh.
What physical and
mental health benefits do
green spaces deliver?
The University of Exeter have summarised some of the research that has been done in this area here.
The research finds that just some of the positive impacts that green spaces can have on our physical and mental health includes:
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reduced depression, anxiety and stress
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better mental wellbeing for children and young people
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improved physical health factors such as lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and lower incidence of type 2 diabetes
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Urban greenspaces are able to deliver these benefits as they:
1) provide a setting for physical activity,
2) help to combat loneliness and promote social cohesion
3) improve air quality.​
The Roseburn Path as an
urban green space
The Roseburn Path is a vital green space at the heart of our city. Described as “Edinburgh’s high line” it’s a little slice of calm in our busy lives.
A recent Sustrans survey of people using the Roseburn Path highlighted:
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99% of respondents said the use of the route had improved their overall satisfaction with life
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90% of respondents said that the route had helped them to increase the amount of physical activity that they regularly take.
