Green Living in The Grey City - Uncovering Urban Spaces

Mon 15 Apr 2024

Living and working in Chelsfield or the surrounding leafy villages has too many advantages to be listed in this article, but if you zoom out a bit, and talk of Orpington, Bromley and Sevenoaks, for some this will conjure images of grey concrete landscapes, traffic jams, towering shops, office blocks and flats. However, nestled on the outskirts are green oases that contribute significantly to the wellbeing of city dwellers and respite from the hustle and bustle.  They’re not quite the countryside, and not the busy town centre – they’re literally in between the two.

Recent data from the Ordnance Survey reveals that around one in five homes in Great Britain are located within a mere 100 meters of a green space, with the average distance to these areas being 301 meters. This statistic illustrates the accessibility of parks, playing fields, and other green spaces within our urban areas, challenging the preconceived notion that such amenities are exclusive to the countryside.

It will come as no surprise that a considerable portion of the population enjoys proximity to such green spaces, changing the narrative from grey to green in urban settings such as Orpington, Bromley and Sevenoaks.

Further emphasising the benefits of these urban green spaces, research from the University of Warwick highlights a tangible uplift in wellbeing for those living near greenery. The study found that residents within 300 meters of a 1 hectare (approximately 2.47 acres) green space experience a significant boost in wellbeing. Moreover, this benefit increases with each additional hectare of green space within this radius. Despite these advantages, only 17% of the population currently enjoys this optimal proximity to such beneficial environments. It prompts an intriguing question for urban dwellers: how close is your nearest substantial green space?

For those contemplating selling their property in an urban area, or indeed buying a house, the presence of nearby green spaces is an influential factor. Homeowners in the Bromley Borough and Sevenoaks District, well-regarded for their ample green spaces, might find the current market particularly favourable if they are considering selling their properties. Likewise, potential buyers in these districts are not just purchasing a home but also the enhanced lifestyle that comes with easy access to nature.

The value added by these urban green spaces is not merely anecdotal but also financial. A 2019 article by the Office for National Statistics titled "Urban green spaces raise nearby house prices by an average of £2,500," provides quantitative evidence supporting the economic benefits of proximity to green spaces. The article, albeit quite outdated in its information now, does feature an interactive tool, accessible at the ONS website, which allows homeowners and prospective buyers to gauge the impact of public green spaces on property values in their area.  To use this tool please click here: https://www.ons.gov.uk/economy/environmentalaccounts/articles/urbangreenspacesraisenearbyhousepricesbyanaverageof2500/2019-10-14

This financial uplift is attributable to the various ways in which green spaces enhance urban living. Firstly, they serve as crucial ‘lungs’ for cities, improving air quality and reducing urban heat through shade and evapotranspiration. They also provide essential habitats for urban wildlife, supporting biodiversity. Socially, green spaces are communal hubs where people can exercise, relax, and interact with their community, fostering social ties and enhancing mental health – a benefit I think most will rank as extremely important on the back of the covid 19 pandemic.

The integration of green spaces into urban planning is not just a luxury but a necessity for the sustainable development of cities. It is vital for urban planners and policymakers to prioritise the preservation and development of these areas. Initiatives could include the creation of green roofs, the development of pocket parks in densely built areas, and the transformation of derelict urban zones into green spaces. Such efforts not only enhance the quality of urban life but also boost the resilience of cities against environmental challenges.

The presence of green spaces within urban environments goes beyond aesthetic value, impacting both the psychological wellbeing and economic health of communities. For residents of areas like Bromley Borough and Sevenoaks District, these green spaces are not just nearby natural retreats but also a cornerstone of community wellbeing and a boost to property values. As cities continue to grow and evolve, the integration of green spaces into urban planning will be crucial for ensuring that our cities remain livable, vibrant, and green amidst the grey.

If you’re a homeowner in Chelsfield, Green Street Green, Orpington, Badgers Mount, Cudham, Halstead, Knockholt or further afield, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss how the appeal of your home may be affected (positively or negatively) by its proximity to local green space.

Source: #Dataloft, Ordnance Survey, University of Warwick, Property Academy Renter Survey 2023