What is the dark side of parks : a solution for designing more inclusive parks

Parks provide a number of benefits for neighbourhoods, but can also generate negative impacts that transform communities in less desirable ways. In some cases, parks provide a place where crime, drug use, and other illicit activities thrive, impacting public safety and perceptions of parks. Crime and undesirable activities, and social inequity within parks can be described as the "dark side of parks" where dangers are perceived to be lurking which can present barriers for youth from low-SES backgrounds. For youth, the fear of crime may negatively impact their social interactions. Therefore, that poses significant challenges for other park users, yet these issues are rarely part of conversations about the broader impacts of parks in communities.