Neighbourhood green space in deprived urban communities: issues and barriers to use

This paper presents qualitative baseline data from a mixed methods evaluation of a 12-month project to promote use of a small neighbourhood park in a deprived urban community in North Staffordshire, UK. Focus groups were conducted with adults (n = 35) and young people (n = 23) to explore perceptions of local green space, implications for use and potential interventions. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes. Despite the expressed importance of living close to green space (i.e. doorstep green space), adults reported antisocial behaviour and a lack of facilities as principal barriers to use. Some common issues emerged from discussions with local youth, in addition to tensions and ownership issues over the space. Consequently, the park did not appear to serve the whole community as a recreation space and for some, represented a source of distress and conflict, rather than a resource to promote health and community well-being.