Exploring the Potential to Use Citizen Science to Monitor and Improve Walkability of Socially Diverse Neighbourhoods

BackgroundWalkability is an important contributor to physical activity, aiding the prevention of chronic diseases. Decision makers rely on accurate, nuanced data to inform the planning of walkable communities. While objective walkability tools have variable capacity to predict walking behaviour, combining community perceptions with these tools can provide more nuanced insights, especially in areas of socioeconomic disadvantage. This study explored the potential to apply a citizen science approach to monitor and improve walkability of socially diverse neighbourhoods by understanding the perspectives of key decision makers and practitioners.MethodsInterviews with stakeholders from local councils, government health services, and a community volunteer group explored walkability in Western Sydney, including use and experiences of walkability assessment tools, and views on using citizen science for walkability monitoring and improvement. Data were analysed inductively using thematic analysis.ResultsParticipants saw a need to improve walkability in certain areas of Western Sydney, but identified insufficiencies with existing auditing tools. A citizen science approach was considered a promising means of capturing and addressing the multitude of factors influencing walkability, through its ability to provide nuanced and compelling local information. However, council staff had concerns about managing public expectations and attaining representation of the community's diversity. Participants provided insights for possible avenues of effective and meaningful engagement.ConclusionIf stakeholders' concerns are addressed and supported by policy commitment, the adoption of a citizen science approach has potential to bring considerable value to the monitoring and improvement of walkability in socially diverse localities.