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Mental Health

The Importance of Green Spaces for Health and Well-being

We’ve gathered trusted research that shows just how important green spaces are for people's mental and emotional health. These resources highlight why protecting natural areas should be a key part of local planning decisions.

1. Green Spaces Help Children and Teenagers Thrive

A review of studies from around the world shows that children and teenagers who live near parks, woodlands, or other green areas have better mental health. They are less likely to suffer from issues like stress, anxiety, or attention problems. These benefits are even more noticeable for children living in busy or built-up areas.

Read the full article on the National Library of Medicine

2. Nature Makes Us Feel Better

Spending time in nature—even just a walk through a local park—can lower the risk of mental health problems by up to 50%. Froglife, a nature charity, explains that connecting with the outdoors helps reduce stress, lifts mood, and encourages physical activity. They call for more safe and welcoming green spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Read the full article from Froglife

3. Nature Supports Community Well-being

This government-backed briefing shows that being in nature reduces depression, anxiety, and loneliness. It also helps people feel more connected to their communities. Green spaces are especially important for people living in poorer areas, where mental health problems can be more common.

Read the full briefing from Natural England (PDF)

Why This Matters for Planning Decisions

  • Parks and nature areas improve mental health for all age groups.
  • Spending time outdoors encourages exercise, which supports both body and mind.
  • Green spaces build stronger, more connected communities.
  • Access to nature should be fair, especially for people in more deprived areas.

Our Message to Decision-makers:

  • Protect existing green spaces from development.
  • Create more natural areas that are safe, accessible, and rich in wildlife.
  • Prioritise fairness, making sure all communities can benefit from nature.

By keeping nature in our neighborhoods, we protect not just the environment—but our health, our children’s future, and our quality of life.

Relevant NPPF Sections

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets the rules that planning decisions must follow. Quoting it in your objection helps show how this proposal goes against national policy, which can make your case much stronger.

  • Section 8 – Promoting healthy and safe communities:
    Paragraph 92 requires that planning decisions aim to achieve healthy, inclusive, and safe places. This includes "promoting social interaction," "safe and accessible green infrastructure," and "supporting healthy lifestyles" through access to green spaces.
  • Section 15 – Conserving and enhancing the natural environment:
    Paragraph 174 states that planning policies should protect and enhance valued landscapes and recognise the benefits of access to the natural environment for people’s health and well-being.
  • Paragraph 98:
    Local planning authorities should take a strategic approach to maintaining and enhancing networks of green infrastructure and plan positively for the provision and protection of accessible green spaces.

These policies support objections to development proposals that would reduce public access to nature, damage biodiversity, or undermine community well-being.


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