Application criteria
Location
Successful applications must meet the following criteria:
- Location must be on the kerbside (in the road)
- After the parklet is installed there must still be space for road users. A minimum of 3.5m on A and B classified roads, and 3m on all other roads
- The proposed location of the parklet must not obstruct utility covers. Access should always be available for maintenance purposes
- A minimum of 2 metres clear walkway must be maintained for the use of pedestrians after the installation of the parklet
- Parklets must be placed at least 10m away from each junction, and 5m away from any informal pedestrian crossing points (see design guidance)
- 1.2 metre distance from parklets and lamp columns where possible.
It should not:
- block utility service areas such as manhole covers, or drains
- be on red lines or Transport for London roads
- be located on or opposite a junction
- be located on a footway
- have safety concerns or known anti-social behaviour issues
- be used for items such as electric vehicle charging
- block kerbside access to lamp columns.
Parklet fundamentals
If the right location has been found, a parklet can be designed. We want businesses to use their creativity and make the parklet their own.
However, each parklet needs to adhere to certain standard criteria.
Measurements
- Parklets must be in multiples of 5m length x 2m width.
- Width of parklets must not exceed 2m.
- Any gaps between parklets for parking spaces must not be less than 6m.
Structure
- Parklets must be sheltered on all three sides.
- Water runoff should not be stopped. Where necessary a gully underneath the parklet needs to provided.
- Any fixtures to the road (for example, bolted in the ground) must only be installed following agreement with the council.
- The length of the parklet will be considered on a case by case basis. However we would look for this to be a similar length to the front of the premises.
Surrounding area
- No drainage covers of manholes should be covered by the parklet.
- The parklet must be able to be temporarily moved in case of any highway works.
- Once installed, the existing pavement outside businesses should be kept clear of all obstructions (such as A-frames, tables, chairs).
- 0.5m of double yellow lines will be installed either side of the parklet by the council.
Safety and accessibility
- Parklets must have a solid base to ensure accessibility (flush with the pavement).
- Parklets must be designed with visibility of the road for pedestrians in mind.
- Pedestrians must be able to see the road when crossing and vehicles must be able to see pedestrians.
- When designing your parket consider all road users.
- Think about using materials with through-visibility e.g. wire fencing
- Reflectors must be attached to the corners of the parklet to reduce risk of vehicle collisions.
- If there are no marked parking bays either side of the parklet, extra protection may need to be provided.