London - Urban planning should focus on health rather than buildings and infrastructure, according to a new Key Cities report in the UK. Its vision argues that challenges such as climate change, inequity and social justice can be tackled by adopting a health-first principle.

The UK’s planning system should be reformed to shift the focus from buildings and infrastructure to a ‘health first’ principle, according to a new report from Key Cities, a network of 25 cities across England and Wales including Bradford, Coventry, Hull and Plymouth. The report, entitled The Healthy City, proposes a new vision for cities by 2050. It cites growing evidence that the conditions in which people live and work – including impacts related to air pollution, loneliness and depression – significantly impact their health.

To support mental, physical and social health, Key Cities calls for the creation of a national vision and planning strategy, as well as frameworks to replace the existing local plan system, with affordable quality housing remaining a critical focus, writes an article in the online magazine Cities Today.

Quoted in the article, Cllr John Merry, Chair of Key Cities and Deputy Leader of Salford City Council, explained that a health first approach to urban planning could inspire innovation. He said: “Ultimately, a healthier population will inspire innovation, bring communities closer and deliver better economic outcomes.”

The report’s recommendations for a ‘health first’ city include implementing urban greening, adopting the latest approaches to cut pollution, and encouraging physical activity with walking and cycling infrastructure.

The Healthy City report was commissioned by Key Cities with research undertaken by Nexus Planning, Resilience Brokers and WPI Economics.