It’s around this time of year, when the weather warms up and nature starts to flourish, that our local parks and gardens become bustling, sociable places.
Our public green spaces are open for everyone to enjoy but not all are completely accessible. Fortunately, more are being redesigned in an inclusive way to promote access for the widest group of people possible, and the Centre for Accessible Environments (CAE) have been helping many clients ensure their outdoor spaces and gardens are accessible and inclusive.
With a background in garden and 3-dimensonal design, as well as access expertise, CAE’s Senior Access Advisor, Teresa Rumble, has provided accessibility advice on Royal Horticultural Society’s gardens such as Bridgewater and Wisley. She’s also undertaken detailed access assessments for many London parks and green spaces to improve their accessibility.
Here she shares her ten top tips for green spaces with everyone in mind.
First look at how people use the space. Can all visitors actually get to it? Are there toilets nearby? Are there refreshment areas and other facilities that are accessible to all? Are there places to provide shade from heat or shelter from rain? Watch how light changes throughout the day maybe creating dark areas or strong shadows.
Inclusive design
Remember to always apply the general principles of inclusive design:
- Place people at the heart of the design process
- Acknowledge human diversity and difference
- Offer dignity, autonomy, choice and spontaneity
Outdoor spaces are an opportunity to connect with nature, be mindful, pause and enjoy. Accessible spaces should invite and welcome everyone in.
If you have a public garden project you require accessibility advice on, please email info@cae.org.uk or want to consult with CAE Access panel, do send us a brief outline of your project.
