Predicting perceived tranquillity in urban parks and open spaces

A method is described that enables the potential tranquillity of an amenity area, such as a park, green, or square to be assessed. The method involves the assessment of traffic noise levels and the measurement of the percentage of natural and contextual features using photographs of the scenes. Examples are taken from three amenity areas in Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK. Using published noise maps, sampling was taken at points in the three parks where visitors were likely to be found and where noise levels were likely to be highest and lowest. At these locations, predictions of the traffic noise levels were made and then the tranquillity rating and the mean value and distribution of ratings were compared. Recommendations for improving the perceived tranquillity are discussed.