2.3.8 Green Infrastructure, Open Space and Recreation

Dublin is shaped by its major landscape features – the Phoenix Park, the River Liffey, Dublin Bay, and also the river valleys of the Tolka and Dodder. These features are complemented by the man-made amenities and green spaces of the city squares and historic gardens, the canals and waterfront promenades. All of these features contribute to the city’s high-quality environment. Green Infrastructure in the city development plan will make a significant contribution in the areas of development management, climate change and environmental risk management.

Green infrastructure features in cities deliver health-related benefits such as clean air and better water quality. Space offers possibilities in terms of increasing social activity, improving community cohesion, developing local attachment and lowering crime levels, particularly in deprived communities. In addition, there is much evidence of green infrastructure delivering key benefits for public health and wellbeing.