OPENspace research addresses the full spectrum of open space environments, from city parks and squares to remote rural landscapes. Our vision is for access to outdoor environments for everyone: for disabled people, for minority ethnic groups, for children, young people and their carers, for older people and for economically or socially disadvantaged groups.
We recognise the potential offered by open space at all scales to provide opportunities for outdoor activity and positive engagement with the natural environment, to enhance people’s health and wellbeing and to build social capital. Our aim is to place our vision at the heart of all urban and rural policy.
OPENspace was established in 2001 to bridge academia, policy and practice, with support from the Scottish Higher Education Funding Council. Since our formation, we have attracted over £5m in external funds, held four international conferences, published two monographs and provided evidence to government, industry and the not-for-profit sector.
