Brits living in cities say lack of green spaces is making them depressed
CITY dwellers in the UK are disheartened by a lack of greenery in their area.
A poll of 2,000 people who live in urban environments found two thirds want to see more botanical beauty where they live.
And 26 per cent feel demotivated by the lack of green space in their area, while one in five feel isolated.
The results coincide with Blue Monday, the most miserable day of the year for many.
More than half (51 per cent) think there is not enough investment in urban greening and 43 per cent believe there is just too little space available.
But 57 per cent would welcome more vertical greenery, such as living walls where plants are grown up the side of buildings, to make up for the lack of ground level room in their city.
Others want more trees (43 per cent), flower beds (38 per cent) and grass (36 per cent) – with 78 per cent claiming greenery improves their mental wellbeing.
Those in Brighton are most keen to have more green roof terraces on their buildings (42 per cent), while Birmingham residents would like more trees in their city (53 per cent).
However, Liverpudlians crave greenery the most with nine in 10 wanting to see more of it where they live.
And those in Coventry are the most content with their access to the great outdoors, instead wanting to see more indoor plants in workplaces and public spaces (52 per cent).
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The research was by Biotecture, whose managing director, Richard Sabin, said: “Having access to greenspace shouldn’t just be a bonus when it comes to living in a city, everyone should be able to easily enjoy nature.
“It’s no surprise people feel demotivated and isolated if they don’t have access to greenery, whether that’s at their place of work, where they live or where they socialise.
“But it’s true cities can lack the space, which is why vertical living walls can be a great solution.”
The majority of city dwellers (79 per cent) enjoy living in an urban place, thanks to the convenience, career opportunities and social life.
Yet 67 per cent would consider moving to a greener suburb or the countryside to be able to enjoy nature more.
Those looking to move want cleaner air (40 per cent), a calmer life (39 per cent), more space (34 per cent) and to be able to get outside more (32 per cent), according to the study carried out via OnePoll.
Although 62 per cent would consider staying in a metropolitan environment if there was more investment in urban greening.
The key benefits of living around plenty of greenery were considered to be having cleaner air (47 per cent) and more wildlife (45 per cent).
Richard Sabin added: “The countryside has its draws, but it’s easy to see why people love living an urban life.
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“Plants and greenery can make our cities healthier, happier, and more resilient to climate change.
"It’s clear people can enjoy many of the benefits associated with more rural living, whilst enjoying everything our cities have to offer if we prioritise and invest in urban greening.”