Hey—yes, there are definitely accessible bench designs that leave an open gap under the seat so a wheelchair user can pull in close and keep their footrest or footplate in a natural position. The important thing is not just “a gap,” but how the bench frame is built.
Look for “open-front” or “cantilever” benches. These are usually supported from the back, the ends, or a central spine set back toward the rear, rather than by a front rail or solid panel directly under your knees. That creates clear space underneath the seat. A good target is about 250–300 mm (10–12 in) of clear under-seat depth for feet and at least 200 mm (8 in) of vertical clearance for toes, footplates, or footrests. If the wheelchair footplate sticks forward, more depth is better. A clear knee space about 700 mm (27.5 in) wide is also helpful if someone is transferring or sitting sideways.
Some suppliers label this as “wheelchair-accessible bench,” “inclusive bench,” or “open-front bench.” In practice, many metal or timber street benches with side-frame supports and no lower front crossbar will work. If you see a bench with a solid front skirt or low stretcher bar near the front, it will probably block a wheelchair footrest. Instead, choose a model with the structural rail set back toward the rear or with the stretcher raised higher than the footrest height.
If you are specifying for a public space, it also helps to place the bench next to a level paved wheelchair space. That allows a wheelchair user to sit beside a companion instead of always pulling straight in. Some accessible bench models also include armrests that stop partway or are positioned to make side transfers easier.
For a true “gap underneath for a footrest,” ask suppliers for the “clear opening under the seat front.” Specifically request: no front rail below about 200 mm from the ground, no full-depth panel under the seat, and at least 250 mm of toe depth. If the bench has a leg in the middle, that can also block foot space, so side-supported or wall-mounted designs tend to work better.
So yes—look for open-front or cantilever benches or accessible benches that explicitly list clear space under the seat for wheelchair footrests. Avoid solid front panels and low front stretcher bars, and ask the supplier for the actual clear dimensions before you buy.