By green spaces I don’t mean sterile, open expanses of
mown playing fields, or neat, pretty flower beds. Variety comes in the
form of woods, wildflower meadows, ponds, copses, rivers (where visible!),
old trees, and even community orchards. Wild spaces next to where people
live add interest to their surroundings and contribute to the overall
quality of life.
Not only are these spaces good for people of all ages to
relax in or explore, they also offer valuable wildlife habitats. Ashford’s
Green Corridors probably have more wildlife per square metre associated
with them than much of the surrounding countryside! The river and
adjoining land also forms a means by which wildlife can pass through the
town. Diverse habitats alongside the river might result in a glimpse of a
kingfisher - what could be more eye-catching !
Of course flooding has hit the headlines in this part of
Kent recently. Whatever engineering solutions are used to control rivers,
the tendency is for them to inundate their natural flood plains. Having
green spaces on flood plains within towns means that these areas will
flood rather than people’s homes and businesses, and wildlife will
benefit too.
Green spaces can be useful in encouraging sustainable
transport. The fact that people with a green space on their doorstep will
feel less inclined to get in their cars and drive many miles to get to one
is an indirect effect. The construction of footpaths and cycle routes in
green spaces makes a direct contribution to cutting down on car use in
towns.
Green spaces are also useful for schools and other
groups as educational resources, particularly where they can be walked to.
Finally, open spaces are good for people’s general health and
well-being, whether they’re just soaking up the surroundings or
exercising.
