Has the COVID-19 pandemic led to permanent persistent changes in recreational activity? A case study of a municipal beach

Abstract

Recreational areas in cities deliver numerous social, health and environmental benefits for local communities. Th ey are a desirable element of the urban structure that influences the quality of life. Th e response to the COVID-19 pandemic, an unprecedented health crisis on a global scale, initially prevented and then signifi cantly limited the use of recreational areas. Th e pandemic decreased daily activity levels, induced changes in lifestyle and significantly compromised people s ability to engage in outdoor recreation. In the process of lift ing lockdown restrictions, recreational areas play a special role in combatting the consequences of social isolation and restoring access to public spaces. Th e present study was undertaken to assess the recreational activities of urban dwellers during the COVID-19 crisis. Th e pandemic s eff ect on the leisure behaviour of residents in the Polish city of Olsztyn was evaluated on the example of a sports and recreational centre on Lake Ukiel. Th e visitor traffi c register and the centres financial performance were analysed, and a diagnostic survey targeting local residents was conducted online. Th e results point to a clear decline in the local community s recreational activities as well as changes in the form and place of recreation.