A whitepaper highlighting eight key action points to ensure the longevity of public spaces has been published.

Green service provider Tivoli brought together eleven senior representatives from key stakeholder groups for a roundtable chaired by Pro Landscaper on 12 July at Farnham Castle in Surrey.

The discussion centred around early collaboration and the need to address the skills gap, with the outcome of the following eight action points for all stakeholders involved in the development and maintenance of these outdoor spaces:

1. Consider maintenance from the outset
2. Avoid a race to the bottom
3. Prioritise community engagement
4. Make spaces adaptable and accessible
5. Upskill and educate across the board
6. Communicate often and with purpose
7. Lobby government for change
8. Recognise green space as an asset

Robert Cunliffe, Tivoli’s business development director, says: “My whole career has been working in the support services industry but only with grounds maintenance for the last two years. What really stands out to me is the disparity between the huge value and benefits of our green spaces, and the limited funding and budgets allocated to maintain and enhance them. That’s why we wanted to collaborate with key industry stakeholders for this roundtable discussion and develop action points that can drive meaningful progress, and pave the way for sustained, impactful change that will benefit the entire industry.”

‘Futureproofing our public spaces: How can the sector better align to meet the needs of all stakeholders’ can be downloaded here.