Greener for Whom? How Accessibility and Amenities Proximity Shape Inclusive Urban Green Space in Cyprus

Urban green spaces are increasingly recognised as vital contributors to the health, equity, and resilience of cities, offering significant benefits for well-being, climate adaptation, and social cohesion. In Nicosia, Cyprus, there is considerable potential to enhance the accessibility, distribution, and proximity of public green spaces. This Policy Brief, developed as part of the EU-funded TWIN2EXPAND project, draws on spatial analysis and stakeholder engagement to examine the 14 km Pedieos Linear Park and its new Strategic Masterplan for redevelopment, highlighting both the strengths and areas for improvement in current planning approaches. The planned upgrades—such as new entrances, facilities, and connections—represent an important step forward, but there is still untapped potential for the park to play a more central role in advancing urban health and resilience. Unlocking this potential calls for evidence-based strategies that align spatial justice, sustainable mobility, and inclusive design. By prioritising investments in underserved areas, embedding green spaces into walkable, transit-friendly networks, and designing with diverse users in mind, the Pedieos Linear Park can evolve into a leading example of equitable and accessible green infrastructure.