SLP KDBH Extracts - Flipbook - Page 141
individuals often have little control, influences a person’s health. This is summarised in the
diagram below (reproduced with permission from Barton & Grant).
450.
The Council recognises the positive benefits that access to green infrastructure, physical
activity, exercise opportunities, recreation and play have on both physical and mental health,
as well as child development. The availability of a variety of high quality and accessible
open spaces and play, sports and leisure facilities is vital to enabling opportunities for formal
and informal sport and recreation, both indoor and outdoor, in order to improve health and
wellbeing. The multi-functional benefits of green infrastructure extend beyond a place for
outdoor pursuits and enjoyment of visual amenity. It can create a healthier environment by
filtering pollutants, attenuating noise pollution, decreasing the urban heat island effect,
reducing flood risk impacts and providing opportunities to interact with nature.
451.
Evidence from the Solihull Joint Strategic Needs Assessment highlights that more affluent
areas of the Borough tend to be less physically active through ‘lifestyle activities’ such as
walking and carrying shopping, partly due to higher car ownership levels and car use. An
increased emphasis on walking and cycling, in addition to providing opportunities for physical
activity, also contributes to improved air quality.
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