How an urban regeneration programme impact people's health and wellbeing : an evaluation from citizen's perception using concept mapping

Introduction: Urban regeneration programmes have an impact on health of residents in the areas where they are implemented. However, it is still unclear which changes inside these programmes drive the impact on health and social determinants of health. In this study, we uncover the main changes inside the PdB driving the impact on health and well-being from the residents' perceptions in a neighbourhood of Barcelona. Methods: We used a mixed methodology, employing concept mapping (CM) method. Our study was performed in the Barcelona neighbourhood of La Verneda i La Pau. To collect and analyse residents' perceptions of changes, we used a three-stage group sessions. We split the population into groups by age and sex and analysed the differences between the groups. Results: In total, 45 people participated and were divided into five age-sex groups. Most changes inside the PdB were perceived as positive for health by all the groups. These included community activities for healthy leisure at local centres, as well as changes to public space. However, some changes related to noise from the implementation of works were perceived as negative for health. Differences between age-sex groups were especially related to mobility and the different uses of public space. Conclusions: The results are consistent with previous quantitative health evaluations and provide deeper insight into the changes inside urban regeneration programmes that drive the impact on health. Finally, it provides guidance for designing new programmes considering age and gender.