Implementing community participation in planning of public open spaces is one of the most useful and effective means to encourage a higher sense of community.
The ‘runnability of cities’ as a novel spatial planning approach can enhance healthier and more enabling environments for everyone.
I use the travelogue methodology to investigate urban health and sustainable development in relation to the Mekong River in northeastern Thailand, revealing new insights and bringing travel to urban areas near the river into knowledge production.
Gentrification is reshaping cities worldwide. It has both upsides and downsides for older adults, including rising costs, housing scarcity, weakened social ties, and mental health issues.
Are you prepared for the health risks of extreme heat? Our new study shows that exposure to extreme heat increases the risk of mortality from Non-Communicable Diseases. Check out our systematic review of the effects of extreme heat, both indoors and outdoors, on health in the UK.
We highlight the beneficial interactions of “sensescapes”, the combination of soundscapes and natural landscapes, on psycho-physiological health. Our work shows the significance of interdisciplinary urban design and planning in harnessing these benefits – to enhance health and urban sustainability through the integration of nature’s influences on the body and mind.
Belfast has very high levels of car use. Working with stakeholders we tried to understand what factors influence this. System wide factors, such as financial models for transport, a collective car-orientated mindset and car dominated road infrastructure, have the strongest influence on individual behaviour.
A case study in Tokyo reveals how road width, green spaces, and local amenities influence joggers’ route selection, drawn from extensive data analysis. These insights hold significant implications for urban planning strategies, advocating for city designs that prioritize exercise and outdoor activities.
Seven key urban health policy ideas were found in the planning of Sydney’s Western Parkland City that draw upon different ontological perspectives. This case study prompts policy actors and researchers to reflect on their own assumptions, and others’ underlying assumptions to better understand where and how collaborations should occur.
Urban environments influence mental health and development of younger populations. This study explores associations between adolescent mental health indicators and design characteristics. Implications include recommendations for planners and urban designer to promote psychological well-being.