The Edible Streets: How-To Guide by Oxford Brookes University, School of Architecture, is a practical resource for transforming urban spaces into thriving, food-producing areas. Developed in collaboration with Oxfordshire County Council Public Health, it provides step-by-step guidance on integrating edible plants into streetscapes to enhance biodiversity, well-being, and community connections.
The guide covers selecting suitable locations, choosing resilient plants, and maintaining shared gardens, with a strong emphasis on holistic sustainability through organic methods and seasonal planting. It offers practical advice on working with local councils, securing permissions, and engaging volunteers for long-term success.
A key focus is ensuring projects are accessible and directly connect those who live and work in a street with the creation and maintenance of the growing spaces. The guide highlights the social benefits of Edible Streets, from strengthening neighbourhood ties to promoting food security, with real-world case studies for inspiration. Grounded in both qualitative and quantitative research from the community, it reflects lived experiences and practical insights, demonstrating how small-scale interventions can have a lasting impact.
By empowering local communities to cultivate public spaces, the guide supports a greener, healthier, and more connected urban environment.
