The role of visual images in urban planning for health equity

We’re excited to share the latest contribution from the ARL International Working Group on Urban Planning for Health Equity:

The role of visual images in urban planning for health equity

Read it here: https://doi.org/10.1080/23748834.2025.2508661
Published in Cities & Health.

This article explores how maps, diagrams, photos, VR models, participatory drawings and other visual tools can make health inequities visible – and why this matters for planning just and inclusive urban futures.

• The authors propose six dimensions of visualisation:
• Objective (data-driven
• Subjective (experience-based
• Interactive (scenario & participation
• Conceptual (frameworks)
• Narrative (storytelling)
• Illustrative (quantitative summaries)

These tools help bridge knowledge gaps, support inclusive planning, and address the complex pathways between built environments and health.

The editorial is part of the Special Issue “Visualising Health Equity for Urban Planning”, and invites continued dialogue and contributions: Special Issue Call