A multi-methodological evaluation approach for assessing the impact of neighbourhood quality on public health

Starting from a growing interest for neighbourhood health effects, the purpose of this paper is to suggest a multi-methodological approach for providing a comprehensive evaluation of the quality of open spaces under the urban design perspective. Despite the growing body of research and empirical evidence about the relationship among quality of built environment and public health, there is still a lack of studies on urban quality assessment. This paper brings forward a multi-methodological approach for assessing the quality of open spaces by the assignment of a composite score. The study combines Geographic Information Systems and Multi-Attribute Value Theory with the aim of proposing urban quality maps. Open spaces, including green and walkable areas, streets and squares are evaluated with respect to the following attributes: a) accessibility; b) liveability; c) vitality and d) identity. The urban quality maps provide a robust basis for running different kind of analysis and for supporting cross-sectorial policies towards the improvement of public health.