Grounds maintenance companies and local communities need to be involved earlier in a project to ensure long-term value is delivered. This is one of the outcomes of a roundtable held on how to futureproof our public spaces. 

Eleven senior representatives from key stakeholder groups were brought together by Pro Landscaper and green service provider Tivoli at Farnham Castle in Surrey on 12 July to set out the action and collaboration required. 

As well as a need for earlier engagement, there’s also a skills gap that must be addressed. Attracting talent from a young age is important – especially during the period between primary school and college – as is educating operatives on the ground and clients as to the long-term management of public spaces. 

“Collaborating with Pro Landscaper for this roundtable discussion was a fantastic experience,” says Robert Cunliffe, business development director at Tivoli. “The exchange of ideas and perspectives from across the sector was incredibly valuable, and it reinforced the importance of collective effort in driving innovation and progress in our industry. Thank you to all of the attendees.” 

A whitepaper is due to be published next month, setting out the key priorities agreed at the roundtable.