The importance of a good quality open space in improving people’s quality of life is increasingly recognised. However, the needs of local communities are frequently not met by current provision and quality of greenspace in many of Scotland’s settlements. Through Greenspace Scotland and a national network of local greenspace partnerships, the Greenspace for Communities Initiative (GfCI) seeks to secure a Scotland where;

• The urban landscape is being transformed. Derelict and degraded land, uninspiring grassland and play areas are transformed into vibrant greenspaces, making attractive places where people want to live and work;

• Everyone living and working in urban areas has easy access to quality greenspaces, which are appropriately managed, maintained and promoted to meet local needs. People feel confident and safe using greenspace;

• Effective local partnerships bring together local authorities, the public and private sector, voluntary organisations and communities to work on adequately resourced, area-based greenspace programmes. Good practice is shared between local partnerships through networking arrangements; 

• Local people and communities are involved in designing, creating, managing and promoting their local greenspace. People use and value their local greenspaces; 

• Greenspace is, and is recognised as, delivering multiple benefits; contributing to health, environmental and social justice, sustainable development, neighbourhood renewal and economic development, as well as biodiversity and providing locally accessible recreation opportunities.
  
  

The Greenspace for Communities Initiative will achieve this vision by;

 ‘Working together to improve the quality of life of people
in urban communities through the creation and sustainable management of greenspaces.’