The number of people who live in urban areas in the UK is expected to increase over the next decade, while the total provision of green spaces is expected to substantially decline, as infrastructure increases to meet the needs of a growing population.

The EFRA (Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) Committee’s inquiry will focus on the ecological, environmental and human benefits of green space, and will explore the most effective solutions to making cities greener and nature rich.

The Committee has issued a call for evidence, seeking views that address any or all of the issues raised in the following terms of reference:

1. How successfully are the Government and Local Authorities protecting and increasing urban green spaces, and what trends can be seen in the extent and quality of those spaces?
2. What environmental challenges are urban areas facing, and how could wider access and inclusion to green spaces (including dog-friendly spaces) address these challenges? Areas to consider but not limited to:

(a) Increased temperatures and the ‘urban heat island’ effect

(b) Flooding risks and water quality in urban watercourses

(c) Air pollution and the associated health implications

(d) Noise pollution

(e) Climate change and carbon storage

(f) Pressures on biodiversity and ecosystems in urban centres

(g) Resource and waste management

3. To what extent will Government initiatives such as the Green Infrastructure Framework, the levelling up parks fund and urban tree challenge fund adequately address the issues associated with a lack of green space in towns and cities?
4. Will the Government achieve its aims to increase the amount of green cover to 40% in urban residential areas? What other additional measures should the Government take to increase green urban space?
5. Is access to urban green spaces equally distributed across all sectors of society? Do the environmental and associated health risks disproportionately impact certain groups? What barriers to access exist and how can they be addressed?

The deadline for submissions is 23:55 on Friday 20 October.