Tony Hawkhead said the availability of safe public spaces and facilities for young people is the make-or-break factor in determining their relationship with the wider community.
"There is an assumption that young people have more opportunities to enjoy open spaces in rural areas," said Hawkhead. "The reality is that young people in these communities are often very physically isolated."
He pointed out that public spaces in rural areas are often poorly maintained.
Young people prefer to congregate in safer public places, such as outside shops where they may come into conflict with the community.
Although there are increasing numbers of formal leisure opportunities, many young people do not use them because they are too expensive or far away.
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