Two in three men and three in four women in England do not get enough exercise, but the good news is that the answer lies on our doorstep. CABE has long argued that the design of neighbourhoods really does influence whether we are fit in the long-term, or whether we are going to gradually just put on weight.
That is because it is regular exercise which takes and keeps the pounds off - but we are only likely to take that exercise if local streets and open spaces are inviting.
The case for investing in decent design for streets and open spaces is getting stronger by the day. January saw the publication of new Government strategy and of independent public health guidance into how active lifestyles can be designed into streets, towns, and cities.
Healthy Weight, Healthy Lives from the Department of Health outlines the Government's plans to encourage healthier lifestyles. There are some great proposals for 'healthy towns', which prioritise walking and cycling, outdoor green spaces and community-based initiatives to promote a good diet.
There is also a welcome focus on children and young people, especially the investment in 'healthy schools'. CABE is working to ensure that safe and active travel to school is considered in the design and refurbishment of schools through the Building Schools for the Future programme. It should also provide spaces for active play, and use school grounds to promote learning about healthy food.
For the first time, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has turned their public health methodology to the built environment. Its physical activity and environment guidance highlights how transport and planning policies can combat obesity. Interesting points include designing stairs so that they don't feel like the loser's option. The money generally goes on the glamorous mirrored lift, while you can guarantee the staircase will often be dustball strewn, undecorated and windowless.
CABE advised on the Government strategy and the NICE guidance. Both build on previous CABE briefing papers Physical activity and the built environment and the Foresight report Tackling Obesities: Future Choices. They also take forward the recommendations contained in Building Health, which CABE, Living Streets and the National Heart Forum produced last year.
