A person in a yellow jumper and white skirt, sitting outside in the sunshine and holding sunflowers.

Programme:

Landscape Architecture - MPhil/PhD

Start date:

September 2024

Mode of study:

Full time

Research title:

Local Woodland Use in Central Scotland since 2004

Biography

This project aims to investigate in Scotland's Central woodlands, building on previous work by Thompson et al. (2004). It will explore public perceptions of woodland utilization longitudinally, focusing on key features relevant to landowners, managers, and local administration. The research will assess the extent of woodland use, user activities, incentives for young and old people, and overall accessibility. Specifically, it will examine how woodlands can benefit urban populations in terms of outdoor recreation and community engagement. Disparities in woodland accessibility exist among age groups, necessitating nuanced woodland management approaches that consider diverse demographic needs and evolving societal contexts. By examining social, cultural, and environmental factors, the study aims to demonstrate the significant ecological development potential of woodlands for surrounding communities and their positive impact on mental health and well-being.

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