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Why are public parks and reserves important to Melbourne’s inner city?

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Public parks and reserves are vital to Melbourne’s inner city because they reflect a historical commitment to the quality of life that prioritized public well-being over purely commercial development.1

During the mid-19th century, civic leaders set aside extensive land for these green spaces, which now account for more than one-fourth of the inner-city area. This foresight has earned Victoria the title of the "Garden State," ensuring that residents and visitors have access to significant recreational environments, such as the internationally recognized Royal Botanic Gardens. These areas serve as essential lungs for the city, providing expansive tracts of lakes and greenery that distinguish Melbourne’s urban landscape.1