RESIDENTS PERCEPTIONS OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL ENHANCEMENT PROJECT IN AUSTRALIA

This paper describes a study which aimed to explore the impact of an e nvironmental enhancement project comprising the creation of a Communit y Park in Cringila, NSW. The study, conducted over a number of weeks, used a focus group technique involving a number of local men, women, c ommunity leaders and school children. Qualitative data analysis reveal ed a number of recurrent themes emerging from the people's responses. The themes suggested that the creation of a community park had provide d a venue for physical activity, been a source of aesthetic and enviro nmental benefit, enhanced communal congeniality and provided a sense o f civic pride for local residents. Such findings are interpreted to be meaningful experiences for the local residents. The paper discusses t hese results and the implications of such findings for the development of policies to improve the environment of our cities and to enhance t he health and wellbeing of communities.