Programming Parks. How do organized events and activities affect the inclusivity of urban green spaces?

SMITH, Andrew, OSBORN, Guy and VODICKA, Goran (2023). Programming Parks. How do organized events and activities affect the inclusivity of urban green spaces? Journal of Leisure Research.

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Abstract

Programming is one aspect of urban parks provision that has been neglected in existing research, even though it can provide flexible ways of connecting parks with their communities and attracting different users. Planned events and activities can also exclude, especially when they aim to generate income to help pay for parks. This paper analyzes park programming by using interviews and observations to analyze a significant case study, Finsbury Park in north London, which hosts a wide range of organized activities and events every year. The research assesses the compatibility of events and activities - with each other and with the aim to produce inclusive public space. We conclude that programming can produce more inclusive parks by making spaces more accessible, flexible, relatable and sociable. However, over-programming park space should be avoided and we recommend a looser approach that blurs the lines between organized, scheduled events and more informal, spontaneous happenings.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	1106 Human Movement and Sports Sciences; 1504 Commercial Services; 1506 Tourism; Sport, Leisure & Tourism; 3504 Commercial services; 3508 Tourism
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.1080/00222216.2023.2210563
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Elements
Depositing User:	Symplectic Elements
Date Deposited:	26 May 2023 13:45
Last Modified:	11 Oct 2023 13:46
URI:	https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/31931

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