making the links : greenspace for a more successful and sustainable Scotland
This new greenspace scotland publication is a book in two parts:
making the links making it happen
There is growing understanding, recognition and evidence of the role of greenspace and green networks in shaping and sustaining healthier, safer and stronger, wealthier and fairer, smarter and greener communities. We now have a better policy framework for greenspace than at any time previously, with the role of quality greenspace in contributing to vibrant, healthy and sustainable communities being identified in, for example, equally well; Good Places, Better Health; The Early Years Framework; Firm Foundations; People and Place and SPP11 Open Space and Physical Activity.
There are, however, very real challenges in delivering on the ambitions of this policy and the aspirations of communities, particularly in the difficult economic situation in which we are now working. We hope that Making the Links will provide a valuable resource for partners, practitioners and communities in translating policy into meaningful action on the ground to shape better places and improved quality of life for people living and working in urban Scotland.
Speaking on the launch of Making the links, Roseanna Cunningham MSP, Minister for the Environment commented:
“greenspace scotland has gathered much valuable evidence in “Making the Links: greenspace for a more successful and sustainable Scotland”. I welcome the emphasis which this publication places on how “making it happen” will contribute to the Scottish Government’s five strategic objectives and to the national outcomes… This publication illustrates the contribution that access to improved greenspace will make to health, cohesion and wellbeing, and safety in communities, especially those with particular social and economic problems. A high quality urban environment including greenspace will appeal to all – residents, visitors and businesses and help support sustainable economic growth… This publication demonstrates the attention which all individuals and organisations need to give to providing and further enhancing greenspace in the urban environment.”
Hard copies have been mailed to all local authorities, community planning partnerships, MSPs and a number of other organisations. If you haven’t received a copy would like one, please download and complete the order form. A limited number of copies are available; single copies are free of charge to Scottish organisations, £20 (+P&P) within the UK and price on application for multiple copies and outwith UK.
download a copy
Please tell us what you think of the making the links and how you are using it – email us here
