Better urban design will bring children out to play

John Lonergan states we have tended to “suffocate” children and we need to teach them to become self-sufficient ( 21 March).

One aspect of this debate often overlooked is how modern housing estates are designed. All too often green areas are off to the side or on the edge of estates.

They aren’t safe for kids because parents can’t keep an eye on them. Loretto Park and Reendowney have a green area in the centre, surrounded by houses.