The resource aims to help communities across the UK improve urban environments, tackle air pollution, manage flooding and support local wildlife.
Developed through the UK Research and Innovation-funded RECLAIM Network Plus and led by Professor Prashant Kumar, founding director of the University of Surrey’s Global Centre for Clean Air Research, the toolkit addresses seven key areas. Some of these include air pollution, biodiversity, flood risk, health and wellbeing, heat, noise and carbon storage.
Each section contains illustrated fact sheets showing what works, common pitfalls and the benefits of well-designed green and blue infrastructure.
‘Urban greening should make life better for everyone,’ Professor Kumar, said. ‘When councils design green spaces that feel safe, welcoming and connected to daily routines, they support healthier and more active communities. We all want places we can enjoy, move through and take pride in, while helping nature to thrive in our towns and cities.
‘This guide gives councils the confidence to make choices that work locally. Most importantly, it gives councils a practical route to act now.’
The toolkit explains how hedges, green screens and mixed infrastructure can reduce roadside pollution while warning against poorly sited trees that may trap pollutants. It also highlights the importance of ground-level green spaces which support pollinators and connect green areas to allow wildlife to move safely through towns.
In addition, blue-green infrastructure is recommended to manage stormwater, slow runoff, and filter pollutants. Planners are encouraged to anticipate downstream effects and ensure regular maintenance so systems work effectively during heavy rainfall.
Cllr Catherine Houston of Guildford Borough Council said: ‘We’re proud to support the creation of the Urban Greening Toolkit, which brings together innovative, practical examples of how communities can make space for nature in our urban environments… We’re delighted to have supported its development and hope it encourages more people to get involved in shaping a greener future for all.’
Professor Laurence Jones from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology added: ‘City officials tell us they need clear summaries of the evidence, which is why it’s important that they have been involved in developing and refining this guidance on where and how to design green infrastructure in cities.’
Image: Cédric VT/UnSplash
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