The built environment is a foundation for community health, providing opportunities for physical activity (active and passive) and social interaction which supports mental wellbeing.

A local environment that caters to walking and cycling encourages healthy daily activity and social interaction:

1. Is the intended speed zone for key roads safe for all users of that road? Does the physical design fit that design speed? Is the speed zone the default urban speed limit of 50km/h or less?
2. Has a Safe System approach been taken? Is both the road design and speed 'self explanatory' for both movement and place?
3. Are streets comfortable to walk along – not too crowded, buffered from high-speed or high-volume traffic, and shaded from summer heat?
4. Has personal safety been considered? Is there an evening or night-time economy? How do people move to and from the area and nodes within it? Is the lighting aligned with the activation strategy?
5. Can daily needs be met on foot (access to fresh food, local services like pharmacies, social spaces like cafes, primary schools)?
6. Can workers access food, services and parks within their area during breaks and at lunch?