The key purpose of this thesis is to investigate how the concept of multifunctionality, applied to the totality of green infrastructure, can help to underpin an improvement in the management of urban green space. The thesis uses a paired comparison study to investigate ways of enhancing landscape multifunctionality in green infrastructure through improved management in different cities. This study compares actual and potential prospects for development of green infrastructure in Sheffield, UK and Yuci, China.
Landscape management plays a key role in improving the quality of urban environments and enhancing green infrastructure. The concept of multifunctionality has been considered as a core property of green infrastructure and has been particularly impacted in Europe, UK and USA. However, most literature on green infrastructure emphasises its spatial planning phases, and usually gives less attention to landscape management aspects. Therefore, this thesis concentrates on management aspects of green infrastructure; particularly those that enhance its multifunctionality.
This research commences with a literature review to understand related research and management background. Subsequently, Geographic Information System (GIS) is used to show and explain what kind of green spaces and multifunctionality are present. Based on GIS mapping, relevant policies and plans are reviewed and evaluated in selected cities, supplemented by interviews with landscape managers. The interviews provide particular insights into implementing action and monitoring of management proposals and actions.
As a comparative study, this thesis has critically compared national and local policy contexts for green spaces in the UK and China. Based on mapping exercises and policy analysis, a representative set of management practices and specifications have been selected for more detailed analysis. The extent to which these documents contain multifunctional management approaches has been undertaken by evaluating them in relation to multifunctionality criteria.
It is clear that there are significant differences in practices between Sheffield and Yuci, although, many of their needs are similar. One output of the research is to contribute to 'knowledge exchange' as a way of improving policy and practice.
The comparative case studies in this thesis identify a number of potential factors in management for improving multifunctional green infrastructure. The roles of policy, management approach, and comprehension of multifunctionality among managers are discussed in order to ascertain the ways in which multifunctionality can be promoted in green infrastructure. Some of the benefits and barriers in the management process such as legislation and resources are discussed to investigate potential opportunities. On the other hand, the experiences of management from different backgrounds are explored as a basis for knowledge exchange.
