Why Accessibility in Public Realm Matters

What if outdoor spaces were inaccessible to us?

It’s a question that cuts to the heart of public realm design, and one that’s rightly gaining urgency across our sector. At Blakedown, we believe creating accessible and inclusive environments isn’t simply about meeting baseline requirements. It’s about making sure the places we shape are welcoming, usable, and capable of adapting to the needs of all who use them.

In our recent contribution to Pro Landscaper’s Public Spaces Special, we explored the complex realities of accessibility in landscape construction, particularly across diverse settings, from historic and heavily constrained sites to new builds. The article highlights the importance of practical, buildable solutions and the vital role early contractor involvement plays in delivering them.

Accessibility shouldn’t be treated as an afterthought or add-on. It should be embedded from the outset, supported by clear intent, technical understanding, and collaboration across design and delivery teams. That’s the approach we take at Blakedown, ensuring that inclusive design is not just achievable, but effective in the long term.

Read the full article here in Pro Landscaper