The environmental auditing of green spaces within cities with implications for management systems

Abstract

The study was carried out to assess the management and overall importance of green spaces both for a city, it's human population and also for the associated wildlife. A diverse range of different land categories make up green sites in cities. Durham City exhibits many land use types also, but it is also different from most other cities, in that it has been designated a World Heritage Site (1987).This study was implemented with the acquisition of baseline data which included history and flora/fauna records. A noise and pH survey was carried out within the city and green spaces and a litter and flytipping visual assessment was carried out on each of the green spaces. General mitigation measures were suggested for reducing dumping and flytipping on these sites. Interviews were also conducted with the City/County Council, University, Dean and Chapter and private land owners to discover past and current management practices. Noise levels were recorded above 60dB(A) - according to the Institute of Environmental Assessment, a day time noise above this level would need mitigating measures. Higher noise levels were mostly due to traffic. It was judged that the effect of traffic on green spaces in Durham City was minimal, however mitigation measures were suggested. The pH survey recorded an average pH of 6.2 over the area, this is an adequate pH level for most plants, although the findings serve only as a guide. Recommendations for the future management of specific green sites appear in individual sections. The main recommendations refer to managing green spaces with greater sympathy for the environment, teaching the importance of green spaces in cities through education and utilising this to implement better management techniques and preserve existing green sites in cities for future generations.