This policy briefing by Joanna Hayes (Heseltine Institute) and Dr Charlotte Lyddon (Lecturer in Coastal Dynamics in the Department of Geography and Planning, University of Liverpool) highlights the wellbeing benefits of urban blue space, with a focus on Liverpool City Region.
Policy often considers blue space (natural or manmade areas featuring water accessible to humans) in relation to green space. However, blue space offers distinct wellbeing benefits, which policy should seek to distinguish and enhance. Liverpool City Region is particularly well-placed to utilise its extensive blue space to address health inequalities and improve wellbeing. In LCR, blue space assets consist of more than the obvious leisure destinations, encompassing neighbourhood assets such as docks, canals, marine lakes and promenades, as well as natural features.
To realise the potential of the blue space opportunity in Liverpool City Region, this briefing suggests a city-regional policy framework is required along with development of greater understanding of how people derive wellbeing benefits from blue spaces.
The wellbeing potential of urban blue space: lessons from Liverpool City Region
DOI: 10.17638/03172470
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