In this episode of PodParks, our host speaks with Zina Abdulla, a PhD researcher in architecture and urban design at the University of Bath, whose work explores equitable access to urban green spaces across the UK and Poland. With a background spanning architecture, environmental design, and policy, Zina brings a powerful perspective on how cultural, social, and economic barriers shape who feels welcome in parks—and who does not.

Together, they unpack why accessibility cannot be measured by distance alone. From fear of dogs and antisocial behavior to the lack of activities for teenage girls, culturally relevant events, and the importance of listening to non-users, this conversation reveals how many barriers to park access remain invisible in traditional planning approaches. Zina also shares personal reflections on how access to outdoor recreation differs between the UK and Iraq, highlighting how culture, climate, gender norms, and urban form all influence people’s relationship with green space.

This is a thoughtful and practical episode for anyone working in parks, planning, public space, health, or community engagement—and a reminder that inclusive design begins by understanding who a park truly serves.

Key highlights / takeaways

• Accessibility is more than proximity: Zina explains why measuring access in meters or walking time is not enough to understand who actually uses parks.
• Non-users matter: One of the biggest lessons from her research is that park planning must include the voices of people who rarely or never use green spaces—not only current park users.
• Unexpected barriers are real barriers: In her three-year study, one of the most significant barriers that emerged was the presence of dogs, especially off-leash dogs, along with safety concerns, antisocial behavior, and lack of welcome for group gatherings.
• Context matters: What affects park use in the UK may be completely different in Poland, Iraq, or elsewhere. Inclusive design depends on understanding local demographics, culture, and lived experience.
• Representation in planning is essential: Zina advocates for co-design, partnerships with community organizations, and bottom-up strategies to better integrate underrepresented voices into park and green infrastructure planning.
• Parks and health are deeply connected: Access to green space affects physical activity, mental health, and everyday wellbeing—especially for communities who may already face structural disadvantages.
• One positive intervention can make a difference: Small but intentional changes—such as dog-free hours, more inclusive programming, or better engagement with local demographics—can significantly improve how safe and welcome people feel in parks.

About PodParks

PodParks is the official podcast of World Urban Parks. Hosted by Maria Burnett, each episode shares real stories and bold ideas from the people making parks, public space, and urban nature more inclusive, innovative, and essential.

🎙️ Meet the PodParks Team

Maria Burnett | Luis Romahn | Vitoria Martin | Cynthia Hernández | Gisselle Ibarias | Brizel Lopez

🌐 worldurbanparks.org