Perceived restoration scale method turned into (used as the) evaluation tool for parks and open green spaces, using Tartu city parks as an example

Abstract

Estonian parks are well known for their history and dendrology. Usually, city maps show no nuances of the green areas, they could be for example abandoned areas, parks, green squares, usable/non-usable areas for the community. In this study ALL 92 parks and urban open green spaces (UGS) of the Estonian city Tartu are explored using a PRS method tool for evaluating open green spaces. Due to the densification of cities, which is also a current issue in Estonia, it is important to provide a variety of knowledge of UGS to support the everyday life of city dwellers. We know a lot about the connections between nature and human well-being, but how do we really evaluate the greenery? Tartu’s parks and UGS were analysed by an expert in the summer of 2013, by using the Perceived Restorative Scale (PRS) through tools like Being away, Fascination, Coherence, Compatibility. PRS method is used to evaluate the green areas along these lines: 0-do not exist, 1-low existence, 2 – medium existence, 3-high existence. The study includes 92 UGS, of which 24 are located in the city center, 11 in Tähtvere borough, 8 in Ihaste and Annelinn, 3 in Jaamamõisa, 2 in Ropka and Ropka industry division and 1 in Veeriku, Vaksali area and in Supilinn. There were no UGS in Ränilinn. Description of green spaces is based on detailed level of item question correlation results and CAD MAPS are created by average results of one subscale question (described in detail on method part). The main results are as follows: Item of Fascination ‘This place has fascinating qualities’ and item of Being away ‘Being here is like an escape experience’ correlate (r = 0.760, p < 0.05) in areas BS, AM, AK, CO, CL, CP, CN, O, BJ, AR, AE, BÕ (See Figure 1. Item of Fascination ’My attention is drawn to many interesting things’ correlate with items of Being away ‘Being here is like an escape’ (r = 0.689, p < 0.05) and ‘This place makes it possible for me to rest from daily routine’(r = 0.771, p < 0.05). Both correlations were highly esteemed in areas BS, AÜ, AK, CL, CP, CO, O, CN, AR, BÕ (See Figure 1/Group III.) The outcome: A CAD-file showing where the different qualities are located in the city. Based on the results the authors can confirm that such UGSs as the Toome Hill and Kassitoome Park can be considered the model parks of the city of Tartu.