Harnessing co-design to engage diverse publics in green space planning and consultation
File(s)
Author(s)
Ngoc Thuy, Nguyen
Type
Thesis
Abstract
Co-design, a participatory approach that actively involves stakeholders in shaping design processes, is increasingly recognised as a valuable strategy for ensuring green spaces meet the diverse needs of their users. However, its effective application is often hindered by conceptual ambiguities and the absence of robust impact assessments. This thesis explores the potential of co-design to engage varied publics in green space development through a mixed-methods design comprising four strands: (i) a systematic review of co-design trends and principles, (ii) a UK-wide survey with 423 respondents on participation levels, (iii) 23 in-depth interviews examining public perspectives, and (iv) three interactive arts-based focus groups with 15 participants to test co-design practices. The London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, selected for its population diversity and green space pressures, served as the primary case study.
The research employed innovative methods including collage-making activities, impact assessment Menti surveys, and a novel segmentation framework integrating Situational Theory of Publics (STP) and Self-Determination Theory (SDT). Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs) were also applied to map dynamics underlying successful co-design practices. Findings reveal significant variation in public participation and highlight the need for adaptive engagement strategies that address barriers, motivations, and awareness across different community segments. Traditional segmentation methods fail to capture this complexity, and reframing the category of ‘non-public’ as ‘disengaged public’ offers a more nuanced reflection of community behaviour.
CLDs from interviews and focus groups underscore that fostering engagement requires inclusive structures, contextual sensitivity, and social capital development. The thesis culminates in a structured framework outlining steps for effective co-design. While resource-intensive, co-design demonstrates strong potential to strengthen collaboration, cultural responsiveness, and context-specific interventions. By integrating interactive arts-based methods with STP, SDT, and CLD, this research advances co-design scholarship and argues for its refinement and application in diverse contexts.
The research employed innovative methods including collage-making activities, impact assessment Menti surveys, and a novel segmentation framework integrating Situational Theory of Publics (STP) and Self-Determination Theory (SDT). Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs) were also applied to map dynamics underlying successful co-design practices. Findings reveal significant variation in public participation and highlight the need for adaptive engagement strategies that address barriers, motivations, and awareness across different community segments. Traditional segmentation methods fail to capture this complexity, and reframing the category of ‘non-public’ as ‘disengaged public’ offers a more nuanced reflection of community behaviour.
CLDs from interviews and focus groups underscore that fostering engagement requires inclusive structures, contextual sensitivity, and social capital development. The thesis culminates in a structured framework outlining steps for effective co-design. While resource-intensive, co-design demonstrates strong potential to strengthen collaboration, cultural responsiveness, and context-specific interventions. By integrating interactive arts-based methods with STP, SDT, and CLD, this research advances co-design scholarship and argues for its refinement and application in diverse contexts.
Version
Open Access
Date Issued
2024-11-01
Date Awarded
01/10/2025
License URL
Advisor
Collins, Alexandra
Collins, Tilly
Publisher Department
Centre for Environmental Policy
Publisher Institution
Imperial College London
Qualification Level
Doctoral
Qualification Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)