Greenspaces Strategy appendices

Community survey

The questionnaire used for this consisted of a series of multiple choice and open-ended questions designed to secure respondents views on topics including types of provision visited, frequency and quality etc. A total of 590 responses was received. Key facts and findings are as follows. A series of graphs and charts detailing the main findings are also presented:

• The average age of respondents was between 55-74.
• More than 65% of respondents consider the borough’s parks and green spaces to be good or very good. Fewer than 5% thought all sites were very poor.
• The main reasons given for people visiting sites were to exercise (331 respondents) followed by a need to peace and quiet (256 respondents).
• Priory Park and Earlswood Common are the most popular sites to visit, however, Merstham Recreational Ground was the site most visited. (Nearly 50% of respondents reported visiting this site at least once per week).
• The second most popular site (in terms of visit frequency) is Priory Park; 45% of respondents visit this site on a weekly basis.
• In terms of rating the features of all sites, toilets were the most commonly cited issue. More than 40% of respondents stated that lavatories were either poor or very poor.
• Elements about which people were impressed with (across all sites) include signage and access; 70% of people rated this aspect of provision as either good or very good.
• The main factor considered likely to encourage more people to visit (all sites) was better facilities (toilet, cafes, etc…) followed by reduction in the level of dog fouling.

Respondents were also asked if there was anything else people would like to add with regard to local greenspaces. Key themes were:

• Facilities - improving key facilities such as toilets, lighting and cafes at all key sites. One request was made for improved open water swimming opportunities.
• Connectivity - improved connectivity for cyclists/walkers between key sites via development of nature corridors/greenways.
• Improved information - in respect of all sites; to include better information boards at sites, promoting the benefits (and things to do) at those sites and regular updates about grass cutting and other site maintenance regimes.
• Improved consultation/community engagement - keeping local residents informed about/involved in local greenspace provision, and offering opportunities to get involved in improving local sites through, for example, ‘friends of’ group involvement and other volunteering roles.
• More emphasis on (developing and enhancing) biodiversity - for example a reduction in grass cutting and more emphasis on re-wilding/nature areas across the borough. This encompasses the desire to plant more trees.
• Better play provision - ensuring that play areas accommodate boys and girls, making better provision for older teenage girls and children/young people with disabilities. It was also noted that regular maintenance of play equipment is required to ensure that play areas are of a universally high standard. Colesmead Play Area and Woodmansterne Recreational Ground were two sites specifically cited as being in need of an upgrade.
• Improved equipment - including gym equipment at several sites. Respondents indicated that the outdoor exercise equipment at Memorial Park is very poor and does not seem to have been maintained.
• Improved communication about allotments - this has a particular focus on waiting lists and letting people know when a vacant allotment comes available.

Figure A2.1: Respondents age range

Figure A2.2: Rating of the quality of parks and green spaces

Figure A2.3: Popular (top 10) greenspace sites visited

Figure A2.4: How often people visit key greenspace sites

Figure A2.5: The main key reasons for repeated visits to greenspace sites

Figure A2.6: What would enhance enjoyment of greenspaces in the borough?