Improving Access In Your Local Parks
Published 19.9.24
A new programme of accessibility improvements in MK's parks
We're embarking on a new workstream to make all our activities and operations more accessible to everyone.
Our mission at the Trust is to provide beautiful parks, lakes, woods and landscapes that will be loved by the people of Milton Keynes, forever. We want to create a network of green spaces that are accessible as well as inspiring, whilst maintaining landscapes that deliver Green Flag Award standard.
Our teams have been auditing the city’s parks and seeking guidance from local organisations that specialise in advising on access improvements. We’ve already made improvements at Willen Lake which included introducing a Changing Places toilet, and recently turned our focus to Furzton Lake.
Hannah Bodley, Deputy Chief Executive of The Parks Trust said “We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the wonders of the great outdoors, and that's why we're dedicated to making improvements that will create a more inclusive environment for all.”
In addition, we're excited to have launched a more inclusive activity programme for 2024. Details about events can be found on our What's On page, printed guide, or our new BSL interpreted video guide. Individual events have clear information about accessibility to help you plan your next visit.
Improvements at Furzton Lake
We’re pleased to share that we have already implemented improvements at Furzton Lake, making the lakeside environment more accessible. Through a collaborative effort with the Centre for Integrated Living MK and valuable input from individuals with lived experience of disability, we've embarked on a mission to enhance the lakeside experience for all.
After hearing from visitors that the picnic bench near Lynmouth Crescent wasn't suitable for their needs, we have now replaced it with a configuration that includes space for wheelchair users. The scenic spot is great for family picnics, and at the Lynmouth Crescent car park we have widened the park entrance. We’ve also removed some vegetation to allow wheelchair users and buggies more space on pathways.
Viewing platforms around the lake now have a timber edge, which acts as a safety barrier and wheel stop, to give visitors peace of mind while enjoying scenic views. We've carefully designed the edging to align with accessibility guidelines and to make the platforms more accessible to all.
We have levelled the access to the footbridge near Shirwell Crescent to ensure a smooth transition onto the decking, and we have extended handrails at either side to guide visitors onto the structure.
We’re gathering feedback on the initial improvements at Furzton Lake. Look out for QR codes located at the site of each improvement next time you visit, or you can email us on accessibility@theparkstrust.com.
This replacement picnic bench set at Furzton Lake has space for a wheelchair and is surrounded by hardstanding.
Looking ahead
The Parks Trust is fully committed to making our parks more inclusive and accessible. These initial improvements at Furzton Lake are just the beginning of our efforts to make the city’s parks more inclusive for all.
Our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Statement demonstrates our commitment to accessibility and inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and embrace variety of thought, preferences, personalities, cultures and abilities, we commit to being an anti-racist organisation and to removing barriers that perpetuate discriminatory behaviours. We commit to these values and principles both internally and for the communities that we serve externally.
We value your input and encourage you to reach out if you encounter challenges when visiting your local parks. Your considerations are essential to ensure a future where everyone can enjoy the great outdoors.