Guidance

Pocket parks maximise the value of small urban spaces. Design needs to be robust, attractive, and context-appropriate.

Site Identification & Suitability: Identify potential small sites (check ownership, planning status). Assess site constraints (size, shape, slope, sunlight, existing utilities, soil quality/contamination). Prioritise areas with limited existing green space access.

Community Engagement: Involve local residents/businesses in design and potentially ongoing care ('Friends of' groups).

Design Concept: Define primary function (e.g., seating area, play space, community garden, wildlife focus). Design should be simple, robust, and low-maintenance given small scale. Consider site context and user needs.

Layout & Features: Incorporate seating, pathways (consider permeable options), planting beds/containers, potentially small play features or art. Maximise planting opportunities.

Planting: Choose robust, attractive, low-maintenance plants suitable for site conditions (sun/shade, soil, exposure). Use mix of shrubs, perennials, grasses, potentially small trees (check mature size/root impact). Prioritise native species and plants beneficial to pollinators where possible.

Soil & Surfaces: Improve soil if necessary (import topsoil/compost). Use durable surfaces for paths/seating areas (e.g., bound gravel, permeable paving, decking). Minimise impermeable areas.

Watering: Plan for watering, especially during establishment. Consider rainwater harvesting (small water butt) or drought-tolerant planting.

Boundaries & Safety: Define clear boundaries (low walls, railings, hedges). Ensure good visibility and lighting for safety if used after dark.

Maintenance: Design for ease of maintenance. Establish clear responsibility for ongoing care (local authority, community group). Regular litter picking, weeding, watering, pruning needed.