We seek to understand how all local people can enjoy and optimise use of their surroundings.

For example: Consulting people as well as site surveys play a big role in helping to understand underuse of urban woodlands. We undertook qualitative research (both at local service points and neighbourhoods) in West Lothian’s urban woodlands to ascertain low use issues. Whilst the woodlands fit within a mosaic of functional paths connected to neighbourhoods, it was identified that the woods themselves were under- used. Our surveys amongst all age-groups identified 3 big issues. Firstly the woods were felt unsafe, secondly local people knew very little about the local woodlands and nature and wanted to learn more, and thirdly children wanted to be allowed their own play zones in the woods. We addressed these.