From bollards to benches: designing safer, smarter cities
Street furniture can play a vital role in shaping the character, functionality, and accessibility of our public spaces. For local authorities, benches, bins, bollards, cycle stands, and the like are more than just practical items, they can be strategic tools for delivering safe, inclusive, and well-managed environments
Street furniture is integral to placemaking and urban design, as it can affect how people move through and interact with public spaces, influence public safety, and contribute to the identity of a location.
Street furniture can be used to support planning objectives such as promoting active travel, enhancing accessibility, and creating welcoming environments. This could be by directing foot traffic, encouraging rest, or delineating zones and these elements can help councils shape spaces that are functional and community-focused.
Each type of street furniture is there to serve a specific purpose. Benches provide rest points, encourage social interaction, and support inclusive access for those with mobility needs. Bins are super important for waste management and street cleanliness. They help to reduce litter and promote civic pride. Bollards are there to enhance public safety by controlling vehicle access and protecting pedestrian zones. Cycle stands support active travel initiatives and encourage sustainable transport. Street planters enhance public spaces by introducing greenery, improving aesthetics, and subtly guiding pedestrian movement while contributing to environmental and community wellbeing.
What to consider when buying
When procuring for street furniture, a balance of form and function is required. Buyers must consider durability, material quality, accessibility, and compatibility with the surrounding environment.
Different areas may need different designs. For example, heritage areas may require traditional designs, while modern developments might favour contemporary styles. Accessibility must be considered – seating should accommodate a range of users, and bins should be easy to reach and use.
As with any procurement for the public sector, councils should assess suppliers based on cost-effectiveness, product quality, and long-term value. Procurement decisions must also consider sustainability criteria, such as the use of recycled materials or low-carbon manufacturing processes. Social value should also be considered, for example, local job creation and community engagement.
Maintenance
Managing street furniture doesn’t end when it is installed. Maintaining street furniture is essential for safety, cleanliness, and public satisfaction. Items exposed to the elements (especially in the UK, where we can have very wet and very hot weather) and heavy use require regular inspection and upkeep. Councils also have to be aware of and plan for
vandalism, which unfortunately, is a very real threat.
Innovation
Street furniture nowadays is more advanced than ever before. Smart bins with fill level sensors are making collection rounds more efficient. IoT technology is being used to monitor usage of street furniture and inform subsequent planning decisions.
Street furniture is far more than a collection of fixtures, it’s a strategic asset that enables local authorities to shape public spaces that are safe, inclusive, and responsive to community needs. From supporting active travel and waste management to enhancing accessibility and civic pride, each item plays a distinct role in the public realm. By approaching specification, procurement, and maintenance with foresight and flexibility and embracing innovation where appropriate councils can ensure that street furniture continues to serve as a foundation for vibrant, well-managed environments. Thoughtful investment in these everyday elements helps create places that are not only functional, but also welcoming.
