A design for life: Integrating health and wellbeing into urban development report released

Mental health problems affect 1 in 4 people in the UK. Research shows that the places where we live, work or simply spend time can have a significant impact on our health and wellbeing, with urban dwellers having a higher risk of suffering from depression, anxiety and schizophrenia, in addition to more loneliness, isolation and stress.

WPI Economics worked with British Land to identify how adjusting the design of urban environments – such as the inclusion of outdoor gyms, urban parks, and building design – could provide a real opportunity to improve mental health and wellbeing. This report also provides a clear case of the significant positive impacts associated with this, including boosting productivity in the workplace, reducing absenteeism and bringing down the NHS and welfare bills.

Read the full report here: