Parks managers generally have very little evidence of visitor numbers, including routes taken. There is also very little systematic measurement of wildlife or weather conditions within parks and green spaces.

We think there is potential for data tools to enable a better case for investment in parks and green spaces, for example to find the best location for a new café or demonstrate demand for a facility in a particular location.

Parks managers could also use tools to implement data-driven maintenance schedules, focusing resources such as litter collection at the right times and locations or better responding to a surge in visits to a particular park following a large event.

When changes are made to parks management, regular and ongoing data collection could enable parks managers to evaluate the impact, or respond to concerns such as an effect on wildlife.

Why are we doing this?

We are interested in whether this technology can be implemented while respecting personal privacy, and enabling wider adoption through lower cost solutions.

The University of Nottingham is testing WiFi sending as a simple solution for parks managers to measure activity in parks. The team are doing so without tracking individuals, while also testing signage and researching public acceptance of the technology.

The University of Edinburgh is combining data collected by physical sensors with existing open data sources, the aim being to design and test a digital dashboard for Friends groups and parks managers.

The projects will release manuals and open source tools to enable others to implement their solutions, where possible using affordable, off-the-shelf hardware.