Enhancing Thermal Comfort for Children in Cardiff's Urban Playgrounds: Environmental and Design Investigation

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the thermal comfort of children in three urban playgrounds in Cardiff Roath Park, Victoria Park and Llandaff Fields on the summer days of 2024 with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C this investigation highlights the significance of sustainable design to reduce heat stress and create safe and enjoyable playgrounds for kids. This research highlights the significance of blending environmental data with subjective user feedback. The study identifies the crucial factors influencing thermal comfort and proposes design strategies for improvement. Data was gathered from different spots, shaded partially shaded and sunny at three times of the day (10:00 am, 1:30 pm, and 5:30 pm) on July 18th, 19th and 22nd 2024. instruments like the Kestrel 5400 Weather Meter FLIR One Edge Pro Infrared Camera and a body thermometer were used for this purpose. A total of 90 kids, between the ages of 2 and 12 were involved in the survey to understand their thermal perception and adaptive behaviors. The Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) was used for evaluating thermal comfort assessment, and calibration through The Mean Thermal Sensation Vote (MTSV) which helped establish the Neutral UTCIT and Neutral UTCIR range by calibrating the data. Results revealed significant microclimatic variations across the parks where shaded spots lowered air temperatures by up to 10°C, and water features enhanced the cooling effect. Certain surface materials such as dark rubber and metal equipment registered elevated temperatures surpassing 65°C which posed a danger of burns by exceeding safety thresholds. Adaptive behaviors, including shade-seeking (55%) and staying near water features (35%) as ways to mitigating heat stress. The study concludes with recommendations for hybrid shading solution, and cooling materials along with incorporating water features to enhance comfort and safety in areas for children. These results offer practical insights for city planners, decision makers and designers when establishing child-friendly areas that prioritize climate-resilient outdoor spaces that promote well-being.