Output details

London Green Grid - portfolio of items evidencing the Green grid process; documents produced along the way to build momentum, clarify objectives, define projects and disseminate.

The research under the umbrella of the London Green Grid was initiated, directed, sustained and disseminated under the leadership of Mark Brearley. It investigated the improvement and usage of the capital's network of green spaces.

The portfolio includes excerpts from 'The London Green Grid' and case study of the Green Grid principles tested in action at Rainham Marshes. It contains reviews 'commissioned' by Brearley to describe the project, and set out the breadth, depth and scope of the research and its impact - much in the same way as he commissioned designs.

Brearley's 'action research' consists of research and action working in tandem. It starts by observing and documenting what is there, using technical data (mapping, measuring, recording), simultaneously exposing latent possibilities through persuasive communication and anecdote. This discursive process drives the improvement of public space through collaboration between stakeholders, a careful design-led approach, an ‘as-found’ capacity for dialogue, innovation and delivery.

The 'mission-focus' (to improve London's green spaces) of the research is best understood in how-to terms: building up understanding and interest, catalysing funding and drawing parties together, pulling in talent and enthusiasm. It has set a policy framework for London (informing the London Plan and supplementary guidance), and secured Mayoral advocacy and funding.

The work has shifted the understanding of green spaces in cities, provoked debate and interest far beyond London, made a substantial contribution to discourse within the fields of urban planning, landscape design and conservation.

The research influenced London’s policy context and initiated urban change that is unquestionably to the benefit of many. Its extensive range of impacts include getting more people enjoying and benefitting from the city’s outdoors, to pushing forward improvement in flood risk management, biodiversity and urban landscape productivity. It has been disseminated widely in the national and international academic, policy and public realms.