10.4 - The Strategic Approach

In helping to achieve a healthy, green, connected city and more sustainable neighbourhoods in line with the core strategy of this plan, the following strategic approach will be pursued:

• Creating a climate resilient city by deploying urban greening / nature based solutions to ensure the benefits of ecosystem services [1] are realised within the city. These include green roofs and the planting of suitable tree species in suitable locations as part of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS); constructed wetlands to improve water quality and prevent flash flooding; increased biodiversity; more tree canopy cover to regulate urban heat, improve air quality and provide shade; and corridors for movement of wildlife within the city.
• Providing a network of multifunctional green spaces / urban green spaces which can secure a spectrum of environmental, social, and economic benefits for the city thereby, contributing to urban sustainability, climate resilience and providing a good quality of life for people.
• Providing opportunities for people to get active and lead healthier lifestyles by increasing access to facilities and nature, and by designing spaces / places that enable / encourage active travel, play and physical activity while protecting the environment.
• Creating and reinforcing a climate resilient and robust Urban Forest by planting the right trees in the right locations and by increasing the diversity of species, provenances and age classes. Preservation of mature trees and planting more street trees which will provide wildlife corridors through the most urbanised areas, linking habitats together while providing benefits to people.

[1]Ecosystem Services are the direct and indirect contributions of ecosystems to human wellbeing. There are four main types: provisioning, regulating, supporting and cultural services, see Table 10.1.