News / Bristol
‘Quiet Areas Plan’ is one of first projects of its kind in the world
A ‘quiet areas plan’ showcasing three accessible urban spaces in Bristol is one of the first projects of its kind in the world.
Researchers have worked directly with neurodivergent people to understand what makes urban spaces feel quiet, comfortable and cooler.
The Bristol Quiet Areas Plan is a citizen-led project led by the University of Gloucestershire in partnership with Visit West.
The first three Quiet Areas highlighted are Temple Gardens, St Stephen’s Church Gardens and Millennium Promenade.
Hotwells & Harbourside councillor Patrick McCallister says he is “delighted” with the rollout of the Quiet Areas, including one in his ward on Millennium Promenade – photo: Martin Booth
“As we continue to improve accessibility information for both visitors and local people, we’re pleased to now host the Bristol Quiet Areas map on the Visit Bristol website,” said Visit West CEO, Kathryn Davis.
“It provides valuable content highlighting how these spaces can support neurodivergent people, as well as how to find the spaces and use them, helping to make Bristol an even more welcoming and inclusive city for everyone.”
Temple Gardens is the former graveyard of the bombed-out Temple Church – photo: Martin Booth
Sarah Jones-Morris, co-investigator and lecturer in landscape architecture at the University of Gloucestershire, added: “Our research shows that accessibility is as much about information as it is about physical infrastructure.
“Helping people discover and confidently access quieter, nature-rich places could improve health and wellbeing, support more inclusive experiences, and encourage more people to visit, stay longer and participate in city life, benefiting communities, local economies and the environment alike.
“For many people, city centres can feel overwhelming.
“The project found that better information about quieter spaces can help people feel more confident visiting, participating and enjoying everything a city has to offer.”
Find out more about St Stephen’s Church on a walking tour of the Old City and Castle Park with Martin Booth. For more information and to book, visit www.yuup.co/experiences/explore-bristol-s-quirkiest-corners
Main photo: Martin Booth
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