ABSTRACT
The rapid expansion of Australian cities presents planning challenges as there are demands to subdivide undeveloped land for housing countered by demands for connected public open space (POS). The lowest socio-economic status (SES) sectors of our society have the poorest access to connected treed greenspace but are the group that needs it most. This paper defines connectivity in relation to its function and estimates the unimpeded connected POS required for travel by foot, wheelchair, skateboard, scooter, rollerblades or bicycle. It considers the rise in the use of greenspace during covid-19 lockdowns and lessons that might be drawn for valuing treed greenspace as climate changes. Connectivity was measured as the unimpeded distance travelled without retracing the course in the same direction. Distances required ranged from 0.5-20km. Providing connected POS requires careful planning and insight to minimise costs and maximise use and benefits.
