Seven in ten Scots spent more time in parks, gardens and the countryside during lockdown

Three quarters of people in Scotland want to see more accessible green spaces across the country, a poll has revealed.

The survey for WWF Scotland revealed that 76% of people in Scotland were thankful to have had access to outdoors space during the lockdown, with 71% spending more time in parks, gardens and the countryside than they had before the coronavirus pandemic.

And 75% said they agreed more should be done to ensure everyone can access nature in the future.

It comes after research found that during lockdown those living in more deprived areas had less access to gardens and green spaces. WWF said this figure is concerning as multiple studies have shown the benefits of nature to physical and mental wellbeing.

Lang Banks, WWF Scotland director, said: “These findings make it clear that nature is a boost to people’s wellbeing and that the majority of people in Scotland really valued having the opportunity to get out into nature during lockdown. Sadly, we know that not everyone has access to green space, with people living in the most deprived areas less able to enjoy nature close to home. It’s in all our interests that everyone is afforded the chance to enjoy easy access to green spaces and more nature.

“That’s why our recent Nature Recovery Plan, produced jointly with RSPB Scotland and the Scottish Wildlife Trust, calls for a change to planning policy, ensuring that new developments enhance and make space for nature and that habitats across Scotland are better managed and better connected.

“We need the places we live and work to support our collective wellbeing where people and nature can thrive.”