Landscape & A m en it y
July 2024
www.landscapeandamenity.com
Special Feature Professional Groundscare
New UK government ‘must address play crisis’ The Fields in Trust’s latest Green Space Index research shows that 2.3 million children in Britain under the age of nine (31%), live more than a ten-minute walk from the nearest playground. These findings are part of the unique annual barometer of publicly accessible park and green space provision across Great Britain. The research highlights a growing concern about the accessibility of playgrounds for Britain’s children, with far-reaching implications for health, wellbeing, and physical activity levels. It is calling on the new Government to appoint a Minister for Children and Young People and to ensure that children’s right to play is secured by access to spaces. Decades of underinvestment and poor planning choices are some of the driving factors behind the current situation with nearly 800 playgrounds facing closure since 2013. Despite making up around 20% of the population, children
and young people’s voices are missing from the discussion of the nation’s future, leaving their needs overlooked and ideas unheard. FiT also found varying levels of provision across the nation, with 4 out of 10 councils having more than a third of their children living further than a ten-minute walk from a playground which alarmingly rises to two-thirds of children in some areas. Local authority funding for playgrounds has significantly declined, with the annual park budget in England falling by 14% between 2009 and 2020. The closure of hundreds of playgrounds has left many children without safe and accessible places to play.
Product News the latest round-up of case studies and launches Pages 6-9
FiT is calling on the next Government to ensure the recent Select Committee Inquiry into Children and the Built Environment report is published and its recommendations actioned, as the ball cannot be dropped on this crucial issue again.
government to take the action needed to reverse years of damage to families and communities.
Helen Griffiths, Chief Executive of Fields in Trust, said: “The upcoming General Election is an opportunity for the new
“We have seen an overwhelming interest in the access to parks, green spaces, and playgrounds agenda. We must take this
opportunity for every party to put children’s access to play at the top of their election pledges. But we need to go beyond vague promises, which is why we have created our ‘A Better Future For Parks and Green Spaces’ Manifesto with a set of asks that
will deliver a future that parks, people, and nature deserve. “It’s time, now more than ever, to take parks and play seriously.” Fields in Trust Enquiry 1
Weed & Pest Control solutions for tackling scourge of industry Page 12
Thousands expected as GroundsFest visitor registration soars GroundsFest 2024 is set to become the largest and most dynamic event in the groundscare and landscaping industries, with thousands of visitors already signed up since registration went live. GroundsFest is not just another trade show—it’s the only event where visitors can see machinery in action and get hands-on experience with the latest equipment. Witness top brands compete in thrilling face-offs, showcasing the best products in action. Many exhibitors will be running exclusive offers and
discounts, making GroundsFest the perfect place to secure great deals on the equipment you need. After a day of exploration and learning, unwind with live music, street food, and fun activities such as bumper cars. Registration is now open and free for all attendees. Every registrant will be entered into a draw to win a Toro ProStripe 560 mower. Profits from the event are reinvested back into the industry to provide invaluable support to students at land-
based colleges, ensuring they can overcome specific barriers that might otherwise hinder their educational journey. “GroundsFest is more than just a trade show—it’s a celebration of the groundscare and landscaping industries. The incredible response from visitors underscores the demand for an event that offers hands-on experiences, live demos, and comprehensive networking opportunities,” says Christopher Bassett, Event Director. GroundsFest
Enquiry 2
Top Dressers & Spreaders spotlight on the different equipment available Page 26
THE BEST CHOICE FOR COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPERS TO REPLACE PETROL kress.com READER ENQUIRY 3