An international research centre, based in the Universities of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt, contributing new evidence on why inclusive access to the outdoors matters.

We are a collaborative, multi-disciplinary team, bringing together experts in landscape architecture, environmental psychology, human geography, forestry. quality of life measures and design for all ages and abilities.

Addressing the full spectrum of open space environments – from city parks and squares to remote rural landscapes – our work informs policy on health and wellbeing, social inclusion, countryside access and sustainable urban development.

We focus on the benefits to be gained from getting outdoors and the barriers currently experienced by different users, particularly those from disadvantaged groups.