McAllister, Kate2024-05-012024-05-012024https://hdl.handle.net/1828/16459This research aims to gather input into the health, wellness, social inclusion and dynamics within Victoria’s North Park, a mixed-used mixed income neighbourhood. Employing a community-based participatory approach in collaboration with the North Park Neighbourhood Association, 19 participants were interviewed. Analysis revealed diverse perceptions of the neighbourhood emphasising the community in a period of transition, competing interpersonal relationships and the impact of policy and bylaws on daily life. Residents expressed frustration with political decision-making processes and tensions between housed and unhoused neighbours and territorial stigma was pervasive. Despite advocacy for inclusivity, exclusionary attitudes persisted. Placemaking was identified as both a barrier and facilitator to community connection and well-being, alongside concerns about ongoing development and gentrification. This research underscores the importance of accessible public spaces and community programming as vital resources for fostering well-being and inclusion through centering community voices in neighbourhood planning. While territorial stigma persists, opportunities for meaningful community engagement offer hope for resilience and connection. Achieving this outcome requires buy-in from both community and local government, and equitable decision-making processes to promote community well-being in dynamic urban environments.enAvailable to the World Wide WebCommunity needs assessmentCommunity well-beingCommunity-based participatory researchTerritorial stigmaPlacemakingThesis