Purple Tuesday is a global movement raising awareness of the challenges disabled people face in public spaces and services, promoting inclusive solutions. Milton Keynes aims to become a leader in accessibility through long-term cultural and operational changes. The event was shaped through consultation with disability organisations and stakeholders, with 17 pop-ups from local businesses and charities including MK Snap and Carers MK. MyMK plans to make the event annual, expanding activities and introducing a summer accessibility expo based on feedback.

Who is on the project team?

MYMK BID supported by centre:mk, 

Midsummer Place

Milton Keynes Theatre

Describe the context of this project and its neighbourhood and people?

Purple Tuesday is a global awareness movement that highlights the challenges disabled people face in navigating public spaces and services, while promoting practical solutions for inclusivity. MyMiltonKeynes (MyMK) BID, via its City Marketing Steering Group, embraced the initiative with the ambitious goal of making Milton Keynes the first-ever “Purple City”. On 12th November, the event activated Milton Keynes City Centre, a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The area boasts a diverse population, including families, young professionals, and a significant community of people with disabilities. Despite the city’s existing accessibility features, there is a recognised need for continual improvements to ensure public spaces and businesses are inclusive for all. The Purple Tuesday event brought together local businesses, community organisations, and residents to foster awareness and inspire action. Anchored by high-footfall venues such as centre:mk and Midsummer Place, it encouraged dialogue and collaboration, showcasing resources, best practices, and practical accessibility solutions.

Tell us what you did and how the project, event or installation enlivened the place in a creative way? 

On Purple Tuesday, Milton Keynes City Centre transformed into a hub of inclusive activity, engaging local businesses, community organisations, and residents. Key destinations, including centre:mk and Midsummer Place, hosted 17 pop-ups from organisations such as Milton Keynes Theatre, Cineworld, MK Snap, Camphill Communities, and Carers MK. These pop-ups highlighted accessibility services, support systems, and practical resources for disabled individuals and their families. A unique experiential dome simulated the sensory experience of an autistic individual in a busy retail environment, fostering empathy and understanding. Additionally, the local group “What’s The Drama” performed sign-language-accompanied songs, adding a creative and interactive element to the day. Purple lighting illuminated city landmarks—including Milton Keynes Theatre, Hotel La Tour, Unity Place, and Xscape—creating a unified visual representation of the city’s commitment to accessibility. Local businesses also embraced the initiative by promoting Purple Tuesday-themed offers and incorporating the colour purple into their displays and attire.

Did the project make a positive social and environmental contribution? If it was a temporary intervention, is there a legacy plan? What happened to its tenants, users, materials and programming?

Purple Tuesday delivered a profound social contribution by raising awareness of accessibility and inclusivity in Milton Keynes City Centre and beyond. The event welcomed disabled social media influencers who amplified its message online, and it was covered extensively by BBC Look East, Heart Radio, MKFM, and MSN News, achieving a PR reach of over 5 million with an equivalent value of £8.6 million. The initiative inspired local businesses to commit to adopting long-term accessibility measures and the sensory room officially launched by centre:mk on Purple Tuesday serves as a tangible legacy of the day’s impact. Environmentally, the event minimised waste by utilising existing venues and displays and all resources for the day were shared digitally. Any t-shirts, signage and collateral have been retained for use at future events. The legacy of Purple Tuesday is embedded in the city’s future plans. MyMK has committed to repeating the event annually, with enhanced activities each year. Additionally, feedback from attendees has inspired plans for a summer-time accessibility expo, ensuring accessibility remains a year-round focus.