BALI Landscape News Summer 2020 by British Association of Landscape Industries

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SUMMER

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2020

I NTE R AC T I VE ISSUE

WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER

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BALI supporting members throughout the COVID-19 crisis

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The power of a restorative garden

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Why greenspace matters now more than ever

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Product & Affiliate News - Suppliers are open for business

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CHAIRMAN’S WELCOME Dear member Whilst penning my final chairman’s welcome, I was looking forward to attending the last of the BALI regional AGMs, but it wasn’t to be. Like the rest of the country, I could not have imagined what was to come; a global pandemic that shook the very foundations of our economy, grinding the UK to a complete halt. We now live in a very different world. For most, a lot has changed, including within family circles, for our friends and for our own businesses. We have had to quickly adapt to a new normal, but like for so many thousands of people, the virus was merciless and swift. In March, I lost my father John, which hit our family and business very hard. It was difficult to accept and process, John wasn’t just my father, he was my friend, my role model and work colleague. His love of life and work ethic is something that will stay with me forever. It brought this worldwide event into my home with a sense of realism I have rarely experienced before. The words of our Prime Minister, ‘We will lose loved ones’, still rings in my ears. I have a huge admiration for the NHS staff that looked after him in hospital and who continue to care for the loved ones of other families. I would like to thank everyone who took the time to write, telephone or post condolence messages on social media. The many stories about John have been a real comfort to my immediate family and the wider family as a whole. Dad loved this industry and those that worked in it. I think that is one of the reasons why he believed so passionately in BALI. He could see the value in a trade association; supporting and connecting people. This pandemic has, without doubt, been the biggest threat to businesses in a generation. On the 30 March the world’s airlines ran at 47% less capacity, the UK saw 75% less flights, roads became quiet as we were all instructed to stay home, stay safe. New words became commonplace; furlough, social distancing and self-isolation. The primary concern for those in the industry was ensuring the long-term viability of business whilst ensuring that staff, clients and members of the public were protected. Business had to adapt and be flexible in order to survive. I am extremely proud at how quickly and positively BALI responded and supported its members throughout this crisis. BALI was a leading light from the outset, publishing a four-point strategy and creating a COVID-19 business support hub on its website. It continues to lobby government for help, support and advice and has been actively collaborating with the sector. There’s more on that on page 10. There are many positive stories to come out of this crisis including business agility, the resourcefulness of employees, online meetings and the removal of unnecessary travel. Ultimately our industry is about people and place. Whilst it might be possible to show a client a landscape or garden design via Zoom or Microsoft Teams it is not possible to build and maintain landscapes from home. Our industry, under the guidance of BALI, has responded with realistic and sensible precautions for social distancing in the workplace and I remain positive that the industry will recover.

platform to help benchmark your business against your peers and can positively boost staff morale, aid recruitment and enhance your marketing. The team is committed to ensuring that there will be award winning projects and gardens at the 44th ceremony and we have plans in place to judge schemes in accordance with the latest health and safety guidance, as well as a contingency plan if things need to change. The final word from me relates to member applications. Despite COVID-19, BALI has managed to continue adding new members since lockdown. I would like to personally welcome all of those businesses listed on this page to our leading trade association. I look forward to meeting you all in the near future. Now is the time to proudly display that Registered logo across all your customer touchpoints, you’ve earned it, so use it. Best wishes. Matt O’Conner National Chairman

New members as at 5/06/2020 REGISTERED CONTRACTOR

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People have valued and appreciated their own gardens and local parks and green spaces during lockdown. It’s imperative we do our bit to keep these maintained.

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Whilst there were no major flower shows over the spring and summer, we can still showcase our finest creations at this year’s BALI National Landscape Awards. It remains an inspirational

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Summer 2020

BALI Landscape News

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Editor’s Welcome Remarkable. That’s the word I am leading with this issue. Despite facing down the barrel of one of the worst pandemics in human history our members have proven, once again, that they have what it takes to survive. Through hard work, tenacity, determination and drive, many businesses have climbed the peak and have started to descend into the easing of lockdown. You should be proud of yourself for what you have managed to achieve. Protecting your family, friends, employees, clients and the general public was of paramount importance and you rose to the challenge. We have seen members manufacturing PPE for frontline workers, seen them out in the field risking it all to help others by maintaining our parks and green spaces, clearing debris and general waste from our streets, building and greening hospitals and providing plants to landscapers, care homes and local communities. This industry continues to amaze me every day I wake up and go to work; which at the minute is my back bedroom. This issue, it’s business as usual and I am delighted to say we’ve managed to fill 52 pages with the very latest stories from my colleagues at Landscape House and from members within the membership network. We even have our very first guest book review on page 15. It was important to me that we try and maintain a sense of normality for those of you that look forward to reading each issue. Our plans for 2020 may have been put on hold due to COVID-19, including news on BALI’s exciting new rebrand and our brand-new publicfacing magazine, but work continues behind-thescenes, ready for when we all return to a new normal, which at the time of writing looks to be late summer early autumn at the earliest. In the meantime, stay alert and stay safe. Best wishes. Darren Taylor

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Summer 2020 18/07/2019 13:20

Quarterly Update

Designer Focus

LATEST NEWS

Aerial views of the London estate

RIGHT ON ‘KEW’ FOR GROSVENOR SQUARE BALI has learnt that Grosvenor Britain & Ireland, part of a global property business that has been developing and managing land and property for over 340 years, has pledged that the redesign of Grosvenor Square, Mayfair will create a more biodiverse, natural haven in the centre of London. This transformation will be delivered through the astute conservation of existing natural assets in the square and enriching new design elements.

To understand the extent of existing assets in the square, and risks to them, the team are now working with experts from Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew to research, model, guide and propose designs to create a biodiverse haven in the city and measure net gain as the implemented design develops and beds in. All of Kew’s findings will be published online at grosvenorsquare.org. BALI hopes that new contracts will be made available for build and supply once the project gets underway.

Remembering Past BALI National Chairman John O’Conner The team at BALI Landscape House received some incredibly sad news on 24 March 2020. BALI’s Past National Chairman, John O’Conner, former managing director of Registered Contractor John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance, passed away at Lister Hospital in Hertfordshire from coronavirus (COVID-19). Born in Cuckfield, Sussex, John was immersed in an idyllic rural life from an early age having grown up on a working farm. Moving between counties throughout his childhood and into his early teens, John eventually moved to London where he worked in a variety of factory-based roles before starting a career at GPO (now known as BT after privatisation) where he met his wife, then aged 21. Whilst employed at the GPO, John tried his hand at gardening in his spare time, but also managed to persuade the bosses at GPO to provide a grass cutting service, the first commercial job he undertook. Before long, John was managing multiple sites across London and the South of England, including Welwyn Parish Council, Haringey Council, Hitchin Council and Potters Bar in Hertfordshire. By now, John had

BALI Landscape News

employed several staff and had started to branch out on his own. John grew his business from a small storage yard in Welwyn, targeting local authorities which was his main source of income at the time. The company grew exponentially thanks to his drive and determination, eventually employing over 250 staff over five decades. John joined BALI in the late 1970s, just after he formally started his business in 1969, to share common best practice, exchange knowledge and to support other landscaping professionals. John was proud of the way BALI flourished over the years, becoming National Chairman in 2006. John’s devotion to the industry, and to BALI, over the last 50 years will never be forgotten. His unique way of imparting his strong principles

Summer 2020

Grosvenor Square, London

and values on others remain a core part of his family business today, with son Matt O’Conner, BALI’s current National Chairman, now firmly at the helm with grounds maintenance contracts all across the UK. John helped shape and define the association we see today with an overall sense of passion and determination which helped drive the business forward. Either side of his tenure as National Chairman, John was a regular face at many BALI regional events and meetings, including the annual National Annual General Meeting, supporting BALI with his valuable opinions. John will be missed by so many in the industry, including the BALI Board of Directors and the team at Landscape House.

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LATEST NEWS

BALI PROVIDES LIFELINE FOR MEMBERS DURING COVID-19 Since late March, the team at Landscape House has worked diligently to support members throughout the coronavirus pandemic. In early April, BALI launched its first four-point strategy which included listening to feedback from impact surveys, lobbying at government, collating and simplifying government-issued guidance into streamlined documents, hosting several new webinars and supporting members and their businesses with expert advice on insurance, legal, human resources and on-site best practice for safer working. Feedback from members has been nothing short of amazing, with an outpouring of positive comments proving that the work done to-date has been helpful and relevant. You can read more on how BALI delivered on its first strategy at bali. org.uk/news-and-events/news/balimeets-all-four-points-of-covid-19strategy. As we move into a post-pandemic phase where certain restrictions are being eased in stages, BALI has launched its second strategy to help members restart and rebuild. You can read more about those plans on page 12.

The revisions included minor changes that affected business operations and freedom of movement for individuals in equal measure. These revisions were followed by the publication of several documents, which explained the mechanics of the changes and the suggested course of action. Of most significance to the landscape industry was the release of a document titled ‘Construction and other outdoor work’, which contains guidance for people who either work in or run outdoor working environments. In the absence of a document aimed specifically at the landscape or horticulture industries, BALI reviewed the guidance contained within ‘Construction and other outdoor

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BALI would like to remind members that, despite the Prime Minister urging the construction industry to return to work, and the subsequent relaxation of restrictions concerning daily personal exercise and non-essential trips, the risk of transmitting COVID-19 remains high. BALI would urge members to reflect on their own business, and consider their legal duty of care to employees, clients and the public. BALI wishes to highlight the guidance in England currently differs from Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Members with stakeholders in each of the 4 nations are reminded to reflect on the potential for different restrictions associated with works. The revised guidance in England, which was issued on 24 May, now asks that people: • Continue to stay at home as much as possible • Continue to work from home if possible

BALI’s statement followed the Prime Minister’s televised address on Sunday 10 May 2020, announcing the government’s latest revisions to the current guidance issued to combat the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

work’, together with all new and revised documentation, and subsequently updated its guidance online bali. org.uk/help-and-advice/covid-19coronavirus.

• Businesses and individuals who cannot undertake work from home, such as construction or manufacturing, to go back to work from Wednesday, 13 May 2020 but try to avoid using public transport and instead drive, or preferably walk or cycle

BALI’S ROLO SUPERVISOR AND MANAGER COURSES RECEIVE BUILD UK RECOGNITION BALI is delighted to announce that it has received ratification from Build UK for the recognition of the Register of Land-based Operations (ROLO) Supervisor and Manager courses. As part of this process, BALI has gained approval from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) as a Recognised 3rd Party Awarding Organisation for the Construction Training Register and Construction Training Directory for the ROLO Operative, Supervisor and Manager courses. In turn, this means levy paying companies will be able to access CITB training grants for the full suite of ROLO courses. The ROLO Operative course is now available online from a limited number of approved BALI ROLO Training Providers. This news has been welcomed by industry who were not able to meet face to face to attend the training due to COVID-19. BALI looks forward to the restrictions being lifted to enable their Train the Trainer days to go ahead to complete the final stage of development ready for the launch of the ROLO Supervisor and Manager courses later this year. Visit bali.org.uk/lisscscs/find-a-rolotraining-provider to search for a BALI ROLO Training Provider listed in BALI’s online directory.

• Continue to limit contact with other people • Continue to maintain social distancing • Continue to practice elevated hygiene Companies may need to look at staggering shifts, rethink how equipment is shared and plan safe walking routes for staff - in offices, in public spaces around the workplace and on-site. The issue of how businesses can secure personal protective equipment without competing with the NHS has also raised concerns. BALI would like to remind members that there is a suite of support documents available on the BALI website at bali.org.uk/help-andadvice/covid-19-coronavirus.

Summer 2020

BALI’s ROLO Operative course can now be taken online

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LATEST NEWS

BALI RECEIVES OVERWHELMING RESPONSE FOR COVID-19 SUPPORT Since late March, the team at BALI Landscape House have been supporting members through the COVID-19 crisis, simplifying and disseminating government guidance and advice in a series of documents and resources, including webinars. In response, there has been an outpouring of positive comments from members. Stuart Simpson, Director of Registered Contractor Ashlea said “Excellent communication from BALI, a trade organisation that is showing it’s true worth and value to its members.” Ric Lumb, Technical & Installations Manager for Registered Affiliate VistaGreen said “I just wanted to thank you for sending this information out. I imagine there are a lot of companies (ours included) that are in a period of massive uncertainty regarding the future. I think BALI’s advice is relevant and helpful.” Liz Hughes, Marketing Manager for Registered Affiliate Provender Nurseries commented “In light of all that is going on in the world, our industry and the

tireless efforts put in by Landscape House at the moment should be widely applauded.” Nicki Bull from Registered Contractor Slade Estates Services said “We have only just joined but we have already found being a member has been incredibly helpful. We too have used the templates and followed all the advice given.” Paul Clayton, Director of Planswift UK said “It’s difficult trying to work out what can be done to work around the COVID situation, but I must say, I have been impressed by your lobbying and constant communications, it is important for the industry.”

David Binks, Director of Registered Contractor Landstruction said “Thank you for the support; I must admit, I haven’t used my BALI membership to its potential, but the updates and documentation you have provided have been invaluable.” Paul Lynch, Director of Registered Contractor Elmtree Garden Contractors commented “I think BALI’s support has been amazing and is just where being a member of a trade association comes into its own. Definitely feeling the benefits of being a member.” For the latest guidance, visit bali.org.uk/ help-and-advice/covid-19-coronavirus.

RESULTS ARE IN FROM BALI’S COVID-19 SURVEY BALI’s latest COVID-19 Business Impact Survey, which was sent to all members in mid-May, has revealed that 40% of members will see an effect on their business’ turnover for over 12 months, with 20% of those stating the damage would be more than 50%, effectively halving their income. This, coupled with 63% of members wanting BALI to provide further clarity on permitted works that are currently defined as ‘outdoor working’, terminology governments in England and Scotland chose to use to use to categorise works related to landscaping, meant that the team at Landscape House were able to develop a new strategy that members would find relevant and supportive. More on that on page 14. The survey, which received 79 responses, also revealed that over half of members had partially furloughed

BALI Landscape News

their workforce and as a result 72% of members now want BALI to provide more guidance and support on returning to site, and almost half want support with business development. In the same survey, it was revealed that half the members have remote working in operation, with staff working from home and half the amount in the field, on-site, and continuing to carry out landscaping duties. 60% of members have applied for the government’s Job Retention Scheme and have since received the funding. This demonstrates that the government’s support package has been helpful for a majority of members to-date. Members also reported that, on the whole, there were no serious issues with a shortage of materials, with many members making alternative arrangements for sourcing products to

Summer 2020

compete landscaping works, despite many supplier businesses ceasing to trade.

FINAL REMINDER FOR ENTRIES! International, Affiliate Exceptional Service and Employer Excellence categories are still open for entry. Visit baliawards.co.uk to view the entry criteria and submit online today. Final deadline 8th July 2020. Headline Sponsor

For general enquiries please contact: Emily Feeney +44 (0)24 7669 8658 or Kirsty Wood +44 (0)24 7669 8654 or email awards@bali.org.uk Limited sponsorship opportunities still available. Please contact: Diane McCulloch +44 (0)7455 110975 or email diane.mcculloch@bali.org.uk

LATEST NEWS

BALI’S COVID-19 RESTART & REBUILD STRATEGY BALI’s restart & rebuild strategy to support members out of lockdown, which launched in early June, has been designed to support people, guide business and rebuild client confidence.

BALI hopes the strategy will help British landscaping businesses get back to work, safely and responsibly, by helping to get the landscape industry moving by providing guidance to small, medium and large businesses who need it most. This is the second COVID-19 strategy published by BALI since late March, the first focused on a four-point plan that successfully supported members before the peak of the virus hit. By listening and learning from members, BALI quickly understood the importance of providing relevant and helpful guidance to supporting those individuals employed by members, by improving and nurturing good mental wellbeing, as well as helping members and their businesses to prepare for a post-pandemic return to work scenario including help with expert HR, legal and marketing advice.

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The strategy will deliver on three key areas;

Summer 2020

Providing assistance to those individuals employed by BALI members who need help and support with issues related to COVID-19. BALI’s team at Landscape House are ready to listen and provide advice to support mental wellbeing, as well as working with industry partners who can provide expert support.

Provide guidance to help business owners, managers and supervisors prepare for a return to work scenario with free COVID-19 specific documents, templates and webinars. From HR and legal to business support; BALI will further increase the availability of free resources to help with business acumen, recruitment, marketing and advertising.

Rebuild client confidence in using an accredited landscape professional by advertising BALI on search engines and social media, centred around the key message the industry is open and trading safely. Raise awareness of BALI’s membership benefits and how they can be utilised to support businesses looking to secure new work. Alongside the restart & rebuild strategy, the team at Landscape House are ready to continue supporting members Monday-Friday 8.30am5pm. You can contact any member of the team using the mainline phone number +44(0)24 7669 0333 or the relevant extensions, as well as email. For the latest updates regarding COVID-19 visit BALI’s updated web page bali.org.uk/help-and-advice/covid-19-coronavirus.

LATEST NEWS

BOOK REVIEW

THE WELL GARDENED MIND REDISCOVERING NATURE IN THE MODERN WORLD Sue Stuart-Smith ISBN – 978-0-00-810071-1 Reviewed by Tessa Johnstone of Registered Contractor Johnstone Landscapes In this lyrical and beautifully linked collection of anecdotes, Sue Stuart-Smith shows how restorative gardening and growing your own flowers and vegetables can be. Not only in the deeply personal story of her First World War stricken Grand Father finding solace in the soil and his journey back to wellness, but also in relaying the benefits gardening can offer for today’s more vulnerable members of the community. We learn that some prisoners who are involved in horticulture whilst serving their sentences are far less likely to re-offend, while the health of patients with long-running mental or physical conditions noticeably improved through either just being around or growing

and nurturing plants. The author tells tales of everyday struggles for so many people from all walks of life and how getting our hands dirty really can heal. W.G. Hoskins wrote in his revered, The Making of the English Landscape; “The English landscape itself, to those who know how to read it aright, is the richest historical record we possess”. Sue Stuart-Smith touches on Hoskins’ thoughts by presenting us with her version of how absorbed we can become and what we can learn from our surroundings, whether it’s a small urban garden or a breath-takingly beautiful landscape. I feel fortunate to have had a little more time recently to read this lifeaffirming acknowledgement to the power of the natural world and the undeniable contribution gardening makes to our lives.

Know-how.

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HOW TO DESIGN A RESTORATIVE GARDEN In challenging times gardening can be a powerful therapeutic tool. It’s well known that the process of gardening – digging, weeding, planting seeds and staying connected with nature is good for one’s overall health and wellbeing.

BALI Landscape News

Summer 2020

CONTRACTOR NEWS

But the way we design our gardens and the features we choose to incorporate can also be restorative – from the sensory quality of certain plants to the calming nature of water and the soothing power of different colours. James Smith, Design Director at multiaward-winning Registered Contractor Bowles & Wyer has designed a number of restorative and healing gardens for hospitals to inspire good health, wellbeing and positive thought amongst patients. As we continue to adjust to life under lockdown, he explains how we can design our own gardens to help lift our spirits as we wait for the storm to pass.

planting nearby or putting planting in raised beds helps to further connect people with nature.

1. Engage the senses

They don’t need to be complex either, quite often the simpler they are, the more effective they can be. Weathered steel dishes or other vessels are very popular and can be used for both purposes. Fire can help to extend the use of the garden into the colder months or well after the sun has disappeared on a summer’s day, while a still body of water is great for creating reflections and bringing the sky down into a space, no matter how large or small. If positioned carefully near trees you will also see fantastic reflections on a calm day.

The essence of a restorative garden is that it should engage all the senses. Fragrant plants help to evoke memories and can have a calming effect, especially if positioned close to path edges. Try scented geraniums, lavender, lilac and herbs such as rosemary, lemon verbena and mint. Seasonality is also important. There is something special about seeing new plants emerging in Spring, the arrival of wildflowers in Summer and the beauty of spent flowerheads or leaves in the Autumn and Winter. Movement can play a key role too, such as blocks of tall grasses swaying gently in the breeze or the leaves on trees rustling on a windy day. Grasses such as Miscantus ‘Morning Light’, Calamagrostis ‘Karl Foerster’, Pennisetum ‘Hameln’ and Poa labillardieri are all good or try Sporobolus heterolepis, known to smell like popcorn when in bloom.

2. A place to sit All gardens should provide a place to sit and contemplate, whether that’s a bench, bean bag or hammock. Simply looking out of the window at a bench can help you imagine yourself sitting there amongst the planting and encourage you to get up and go out. We like to position seating in key areas, sometimes where planting gives protection and privacy, and always where there is a good view of the surrounding space allowing for relaxation or providing somewhere to sit and talk. Having tall

3. Fire and water Both fire and water can be mesmerising in equal measure. Watching and listening to them can provide a meditative and soothing experience and help recovery from physical or mental fatigue.

4. Go green Restraining your colour palette to different shades of green will immediately give your garden a more tranquil feel. Green is the ultimate colour for relaxation forcing your eye to wander more slowly over the space. Hedges, lawns and topiary can all be used, as well as green flowers and foliage, to create a rich tapestry of textures, shapes and leaf forms adding to the restorative effect.

5. A garden for everyone Restorative spaces should cater for everyone, young and old. The sound of happy children can help lift spirits so try incorporating simple elements like stepping stones, child-friendly planting or swing seats to add an element of fun. Remember, a restorative garden should be a safe haven for all the family, whether that means a place to ponder or a space to play.

Getting to know James Smith James graduated with a first-class Honours Degree and a Postgraduate Diploma in Landscape Architecture from the University of Gloucestershire in 2005 and joined Bowles & Wyer the same year. During the past 15 years he has honed his skills as a designer and project manager, working alongside John Wyer and in 2017 he was made Design Director at the company. James has been a Chartered Landscape Architect since 2011 and became a Registered Member of The Society of Garden Designer in 2018. James says the projects he is most proud of are the 130m long communal gardens for the Grade II listed ‘The Lancasters’ development in Lancaster Gate, the complex roof garden in London’s Eaton Square, and the residential garden projects he designed in Surrey and Regents Park, both of which received BALI National Landscape Awards.

bowleswyer.co.uk

Summer 2020

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CONTRACTOR NEWS

TIVOLI GROUP SIGNS GLOBAL BUSINESS PLEDGE TO TACKLE COVID-19 Registered Contractor Tivoli Group has joined hundreds of other businesses in a global initiative to help the most vulnerable citizens to pull through the coronavirus crisis. Former UK cabinet minister, Rt Hon Justine Greening, launched the C-19 Business Pledge with entrepreneur David Harrison. It encourages employers to join the international coronavirus effort by pledging to help their employees, customers and communities get through the crisis. It is targeting not just the immediate challenges of coronavirus, but also the challenges of recovery. It comes after Justine received a huge response from businesses and universities getting in touch with her and willing to be part of a coordinated effort. Employers who sign up to the pledge give their backing to three main objectives built around employees, customers and communities, to help address the immediate challenges of coronavirus, but also to assist with the aftermath: • Support their own employees throughout and beyond this challenging time

• Publish clear and simple advice for customers • Help communities through the pandemic To view the Tivoli pledge and case study, visit c19businesspledge.org/ casestudies/case-study-tivoli Darren Cunningham, Tivoli Group’s Chief Executive, said: “We take the welfare of our employees very seriously. Balancing this with ensuring service continuity to our clients has been a key priority throughout the coronavirus pandemic, as we recognise the importance of grounds maintenance activities and the contribution they make to clients, communities and wellbeing. Our Pledge demonstrates how we have adapted our business to join the national fight against COVID-19. Tivoli’s commitment to our employees, customers, and the communities we work in has always been at the heart of our business it’s now more important than ever.”

Tivoli teams social distancing with high-vis messaging

LOCKDOWN POTTINGER PROJECT FOR BESPOKE STONE WALLING Managing Director of Registered Contractor Bespoke Stone Walling, Nicholas Leitch, wanted to share how he had been kept busy throughout lockdown after following the government advice to stay home and stay safe. Nicholas was in a fortunate enough position to be able to continue working on his traditional pottinger garden project, alone, with the only requirement that it had to blend in with the surrounding landscape. Using a combination of weathered stone from local fallen down walls on the estate along with reclaimed flagstones, Nicholas was able to reuse onsite materials negating the need to travel. Commenting, Nicholas said: “Not having to leave the estate to get any materials was a big bonus and also reflects how these projects were built back in the day. We were also lucky enough to have sand and lime on site from a prior delivery before the crisis took hold. We always try to work as organically as possible with a low carbon footprint and very little waste. The key is to find a balance of using locally sourced and/or reclaimed materials to ensure survival of these unique trades through the tough times ahead”.

Former UK cabinet minister, Rt Hon Justine Greening

BALI Landscape News

Summer 2020

To see more of Nicholas’s work, and to request his services in adding dry stone walling to your next project visit bespokestonewalling.co.uk.

CONTRACTOR NEWS

BIOTECTURE CREATES OASIS OF CALM FOR STAFF AT NHS NIGHTINGALE LONDON In just three days, green infrastructure specialist and Registered Contractor Biotecture created a garden for the staff at NHS Nightingale London. The space outside their change and shower Portakabins, where all staff collected their scrubs, was totally transformed from a dusty utilitarian space into a greener, more welcoming environment in which to unwind at the end of a shift. At its peak, the new makeshift facility can cater for 1,600 members of staff who would require access to clothing, showers and changing rooms. The 100m2 central breakout area features a 2.4-metre-high vertical garden backdrop, trees, artificial grass and outdoor furniture. Living wall specialist Biotecture was asked to improve the look and feel of the area. Biotecture’s Managing Director Richard Sabin immediately offered to donate plants, staff time and 600 of their vertical planters, also known as PlantBox. Richard then got to work calling on local West Sussex nurseries to donate thousands more plants and a host of other businesses to donate trees, pots, seats, parasols, artificial lawn, and irrigation services. Registered Affiliates Provender Nurseries and Namgrass were involved. The Biotecture team had just two days to coordinate everything and plant up the vertical garden, and then one day on site for the installation.

Richard said “We were delighted to be able to give something back to the amazing doctors, nurses and other NHS staff, working tirelessly to support us during this crisis. The feedback from staff so far has been absolutely wonderful and we hope the garden has provided some solace before or after a shift at the hospital. This was truly a team effort. I was blown away by the support we received. The volume and value of items which were willingly volunteered was very humbling. It really was a rewarding project to lead, and I would love to be able to offer this to other hospitals.” When Liz Wells, Associate Director at St. Mary’s General Hospital, working as Operational Manager at Nightingale, first saw the new garden, she said: “It’s just gorgeous, it makes such a difference. We get stuck indoors and forget about the sun! It will be lovely to sit here and get some fresh air.”

For more information on Biotecture or its PlantBox system visit biotecture.uk.com.

Summer 2020

BALI Landscape News

CONTRACTOR NEWS

No ‘larking’ about when it comes to this BALI insurance benefit

Matt Berale of Aston Lark

Registered Affiliate Aston Lark, one of the UK’s largest independent insurance brokers, is the provider of BALI Insure, an insurance and risk management service designed exclusively for BALI members. BALI sat down with Account Executive Matt Berale to discover how they have been supporting two Registered members over the last 12 months; Registered Affiliate The London Lawn Turf Company and Registered Contractor London Decking Company. The London Lawn Turf Company (LLTC) is the leading turf supplier in London and the Home Counties. London Decking Company (LDC) is a supplier of quality timber products and were both introduced to Aston Lark before the 2019 BALI National Landscape Awards where Aston Lark were sponsors.

work analysing losses and the related amounts. They then built up a Claims Report, showing the type of incidents that were occurring with a degree of regularity and the drivers responsible for them, to enable LLTC and LDC to address the repetition of certain incidents and driver trends.

BALI: In summary, how have you helped both businesses?

BALI: What other ways did you assist both businesses, outside of their fleet?

Aston Lark: By issuing and maintaining an accurate and effective programme of insurance, Aston Lark has achieved savings on insurance premium spend for both LLTC and LDC and added value to their business. Through analysing the trends and habits for motor claims, Aston Lark is confident they can reduce losses and make the LLTC and LDC motor fleet proposition more attractive to insurers in the years to come.

Aston Lark looked at the various policies and renewal dates across the year, with the intention of consolidating the separate insurance covers the business purchased into one risks policy. This provided a common renewal date, where all policies could be reviewed and adjusted simultaneously. Aston Lark undertook a full review of LLTC and LDC’s Business Interruption Cover and proposed necessary amendments. All of the LLTC and LDC sites, security and sums insured were fully reviewed and amended where required.

BALI: As LLTC and LDC’s broker (midterm), how did you go about reviewing the vehicle fleet for both businesses in order to attain where there were financial losses? Aston Lark: Aston Lark conducted a full review of policies and claims and reverted to LLTC and LDC with their findings and proposed course of action. Aston Lark then obtained claims and policy information from the respective insurers and their Claims team went to

BALI Landscape News

BALI: What has happened as a result? Following Aston Lark’s review of motor fleet claims over a five-year period, it became apparent that collisions with stationery vehicles/objects were the most commonplace. This was of no real surprise as the business operates HGVs in restrictive spaces within central London and the Home Counties. Aston

Summer 2020

Lark highlighted what could be done to remedy these losses – for example the use of cameras and parking sensors - and had discussions with LLTC and LDC regarding persistent driver errors and training to reduce losses over the following year and improve the risk presented to insurers at the next renewal. Aston Lark then amalgamated ancillary policies into one all-encompassing policy with one of their partner insurers, AVIVA, and aligned it to run linear with the fleet renewal date. BALI: So, for other members, how would you best describe what you achieved for both businesses? • A reduction in the cost of their insurance • Alignment of policies to a common renewal date • Removal of dangerous gaps in cover • A long-term motor strategy to deliver a consistent future reduction in claims • An improved motor claims service with quarterly reviews If you are a BALI Registered member and would like to find out if you could reduce the cost of your insurance, align your policies or implement an insurance strategy please contact Matt Berale on +44(0)7917 428852 or matt. berale@astonlark.com. Alternatively visit astonlark.com for more information.

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CONTRACTOR NEWS

EMPLOYER PROTECTION SCHEME BY ORACLE SOLICITORS The easy and cost-effective way to remove the burden of employment legislation from your business. During these unprecedented times business owners and employers are left with some of the most difficult HR and H&S decisions to make involving employees. As you start to look at re-mobilising your business, new employee and business risks appear that were not there prior to the pandemic.

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With the distraction of increasingly complex and costly employment legislation directly affecting the profitability of many businesses across the UK it could be time to look at how Registered Affiliate Oracle Solicitor’s expertise can allow you to focus on what you do best. Oracle has launched a dedicated Employment Law Protection Scheme and wider Business and Commercial Advice Line for their clients.

How the scheme works All services are carried out by regulated and qualified solicitors with the scheme comprising of three core components:

The Audit (Health Check) Current policies and practices will be reviewed in order for Oracle to get to know your business and establish how to bring you up to date with the latest legislation and achieve compliance within the law.

Bespoke Metal Planters now available

Expert Advice (Ongoing Support & Dialogue) Direct access to unlimited advice by a qualified employment law solicitor, who knows your business and understands your specific needs. You are given clear advice that is in the best interest of your business. This not only ensures that the matter is properly handled from the outset but also ensures that you are fully insured when you follow the advice given.

Insurance Policy (Financial Security) We are fully authorised to manage your claim by insurers. The policy fits with our services seamlessly and pays the legal costs of an employment dispute, covers settlements and the cost of awards. This radically minimises your exposure to unexpected financial loss, and caps all your Employment and HR costs providing peace of mind. In real terms this will often result in huge cost savings.

Call Oracle on +44 (0)203 051 5060 for a free, no obligation quotation or email us on info@oraclesolicitors.co.uk to find out more about their HR and H&S employment protection scheme and HR management software.

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TRAINING & TECHNICAL

INTERNET BANKING FRAUD by Owen Baker

Whilst financial fraud is not new, the methods used by criminals has changed significantly over recent years. In 2018, unauthorised fraud - where the account holder does not provide authorisation for a payment - involving debit, credit and other payment had a value of £671 million from a total estimated 2,617,739 fraudulent transactions. However, authorised fraud - where the account holder willingly processes a payment to an account controlled by a criminal - had a value of £354 million from just 84,624 fraudulent transactions. Business accounts accounted for an estimated £126 million from just 6,500 cases, suggesting businesses are a lucrative target for fraudsters. Authorised fraud frequently relies on simple tactics based on deception rather than criminal use of the latest technology. The criminal often poses as a genuine individual or organisation, and contacts the victim via telephone, email or even text message. UK Finance, the trade association for the UK banking and financial sector, has identified 8 scam types relating to authorised fraud. BALI is aware of several instances where members have been targeted via business email compromise (BEC) scams, a specific type of authorised fraud which targets businesses who rely on emails to coordinate transfer of payments.

There are two variations of business email compromise Email spoofing With email spoofing, an email address is created by the fraudster to mimic a trusted colleague or supplier and uses this address to submit a fake invoice with bank details. This method does not involve compromising an email account, but instead creating

an email address that is similar in appearance e.g. @BALI.COM instead of @BALI.ORG.UK

Compromised email account Email accounts can easily be accessed by fraudsters through the use of malware or other data breaches. Once email accounts are accessed, fraudsters can easily make a payment request resemble part of an existing chain of messages or impersonate the sender. It is likely BALI members are unaware of the many ‘breaches’ that have occurred worldwide on various platforms and resulted in personal data such as names, email addresses and associated passwords being revealed to fraudsters. Popular sites which have been breached within the last decade include LinkedIn (2016), Adobe (2013), Dropbox (2012), Experian (2015), Houzz (2018), imgur (2013), Lumin PDF (2019), Snapchat (2014), Sony (2011), Tesco (2014) and Yahoo (2012).

Sadly, authorised fraud has resulted in individuals and businesses loosing significant sums of money, which may not always be refunded by their bank. The individuals behind authorised fraud will invest time in obtaining details, that will allow them to pose convincingly as regular suppliers. Members are advised to seek verification from suppliers either via telephone or in person, if they receive any communication - generally an email – from a known contact requesting unannounced payments or change of bank details. If you are a BALI member and need some further guidance around cybersecurity or you have been a victim of fraudulent activity, contact BALI’s Technical Officer (Policy & Research) Owen Baker +44(0)24 7669 0333 or owen.baker@bali.org.uk who will either advise on the best course of action or put you in touch with an expert.

Consider if you have accounts with any of the sites above, when you last changed your password and whether your password and login details are used for more than one site. This lack of awareness means fraudsters can freely access email accounts without victims being aware. Once inside, emails can be written which put individuals under pressure to pay suppliers within a short time frame, which may can lead to skipped security processes and less scrutiny.

BALI Landscape News | Spring 2019

Owen Baker, Technical Officer (Policy & Research)

TRAINING & TECHNICAL Grass cutting on highways and verges are essential for ensuring ecosystems are maintained

NOT JUST GRASS CUTTING

WHY CONTINUED INVESTMENT IN LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SERVICES IS ESSENTIAL by Owen Baker

Many commercial landscape contractors, and particularly those in BALIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Contractors Forum (BALI-NCF), are tasked with ensuring large areas of soft estate are maintained according to client specification. The range of clients and sites is diverse. In addition to conspicuous public areas maintained for amenity and recreation, landscape contractors are tasked with protecting commercial assets and ensuring service provision associated with critical national infrastructure sites in highways, water and electricity sectors. Maintenance works commonly consist of vegetation management such as grass cutting, hedge trimming and arboricultural works, but also activities such as waste collection and ecological habitat management. During the recent COVID-19 pandemic many commercial clients, and particularly those in the public sector, were faced with difficult decisions regarding budget allocation. Many commercial clients directed funds away from soft-estate maintenance budgets, and either reduced frequency of visits or cancelled them altogether. This reduction in funding for landscape maintenance services came at a time when access to high quality green spaces and interaction with nature was lauded as a source of solace for the public. The benefits associated with access to green space is supported by peer reviewed literature; positive mental health is not only associated with access to parks, research has also demonstrated that healthcare savings result from high quality green infrastructure. A survey by the Association of Public Service Excellence suggested 90% of urban parks remained open during the crisis, with half sustaining a higher than normal

footfall. Furthermore, whilst public movement and interaction was restricted, visits to shops, hospitals and many other commercial sites continued regardless, as did demand on infrastructure and resilience to interruption. Maintenance tasks were therefore required to ensure continued operation, accessibility and hygiene of sites. Whilst scaling back budgets from landscape maintenance services may seem like a logical decision to cash-strapped clients, BALI urged clients to reflect on the longerterm impacts associated with this decision. The operational challenges associated with maintaining large areas on a regular basis should not be underestimated. The frequency of maintenance visits is based on the experience of professionals who understand the time required to undertake operations in accordance with the maintenance goals of the client.

work required to restore areas will be reflected in higher costs, meaning any savings made during reduced or cancelled maintenance regimes will be reduced or lost. Whilst BALI welcomes the wider recognition of high-quality landscape provision that the current pandemic has generated, we believe acceptance of the skills, equipment and time required to maintain such areas by our profession are equally important - and essential to guarantee the continued contribution such areas make to the environment.

Longer periods between maintenance visits is not the financial panacea imagined and neither time, nor budget is saved in the long-term when the frequency of maintenance visits is reduced. During summer months 10,000 m2 of grass generates approximately 130kg of dry matter growth each day, meaning that a temporary reduction or withdrawal of maintenance will result in a significant accumulation of vegetative growth. Unmaintained vegetative growth - and any outstanding maintenance activities - must be addressed to ensure site specifications are met, which will place a greater demand on contractor resources. Additional

Litter picking services in public places such as beaches are crucial for protecting peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health

Summer 2020

BALI Landscape News

TRAINING & TECHNICAL

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION HEADING FOR A T-JUNCTION by Stephen Ensell Vocational training has always been the backbone of the landscape industry. Many of today’s landscaping professionals took the college route before joining the industry, completing either a two or three year program. I hear on a regular basis how frustrated employers are with the state of education, the difficulty you have in finding suitable candidates for apprenticeships, in the students leaving college and appropriate training to upskill your staff. So, what is going on with vocational education? Technical (vocational) education is the next area the government are overhauling in England, with the introduction of T Levels. T Levels are a two-year full-time course, equivalent to three A Levels, which makes them equivalent to a current Level 3 program. The government has cited the importance of vocational courses (about half of qualifications awarded to 16 to 18-year-olds in England being for vocational courses), but with there being more than 12,000 vocational courses, the government aims to simplify the choices available to young people and put together courses that would meet the knowledge, skills and behaviours they need to enter skilled employment. We have already seen the beginnings of this, as courses with low or no enrolments being reviewed for removal, whilst there are a lot of duplicated courses out there, the review is solely based on numbers that have Skills Funding (SFA) attached to them and doesn’t take into account those that are fully paying for those courses, many of whom are adult learners. The worry is that adult learners may have been left out of the equation. T Levels are said to be for everyone, but they have been mainly pitched at the 16-18 age bracket (this certainly comes across in the way they are promoted), which is where most of the funding is. Traditionally, adult learners have made up a good proportion of current Level 3 full time courses; this was certainly the case when I was teaching.

BALI Landscape News

The concern is, will the T Levels fit adult learners as well as the 16-18 market in its delivery model and maintenance support? In some ways the UK has been slow to recognising the value and importance of vocational education, instead placing higher value on academic courses, which explains why so many schools and therefore parents see it as a route for the ‘lower achievers’. This was born from seeing a fall in funding by 71% between 2010/11 and 2018/19 for vocational training. Compare this with Germany, whose funding levels for students taking technical qualifications are 37% higher than their academic counterparts. This, along with the T Level lasting half as long as many technical courses in other countries, makes it feel like we are already on the backfoot before we’ve even started!

So, what are the options for students on completion of their GCSEs? They can choose from an apprenticeship, taking on A Levels or a T Level. T Levels follow a similar framework to that of the new apprenticeship standards, but where the apprenticeship is 80% work placement and 20% off the job training, T Levels will be 80% classroom, 20% work placement (45 days). They will contain the compulsory elements of core theory, concepts and skills for an industry area, specialist skills and knowledge for an occupation or career and an industry placement with an employer. They will also need

Summer 2020

a minimum standard in Maths and English if students have not already achieved them. Students successfully completing their T Level will receive an overall grade of pass, merit, distinction or distinction*. They will get a nationally recognised certificate which will show their overall grade and a breakdown of what they have achieved. They will also be worth UCAS points and count towards a university admission, but our hope is that they will be fitted with a robust set of technical standards and therefore not be seen as a ‘soft option’ alternative to A Levels. They start this September with design, surveying & planning for construction, digital production, design & development and education & childcare. Horticulture/Landscaping (which comes under Agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care) is due for release in Autumn 2023.

Stephen Ensell, Education Officer

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TRAINING & TECHNICAL

WHY GREENSPACE MATTERS by Owen Baker

As noted on page 23 of this edition of Landscape News, a survey* carried out whilst the UK was under social distancing and movement restrictions noted that half of UK parks sustained a higher than normal footfall. The housing secretary even urged councils to keep parks open “for the health of the nation” during this period. Aside from escaping work commitments and daytime television, why might individuals gravitate towards a park, and why are parks important for health? Why is interaction with any area of greenspace important for human health? The benefits derived from time spent in greenspace can be categorised into either passive (derived simply from observing the landscape) or active (time spent interacting with the landscape as part of physical exercise). Scientific research suggests the link between greenspace and mental health is equally significant as the link between greenspace and physical health. Whilst greenspace may be appreciated by anyone, the reasons for this attraction and the elements of a landscape which provide health benefits, are significant. One theory posited by researchers suggests that, since plants were of critical importance for human survival

BALI Landscape News

during most of our evolutionary history, we therefore react – unconsciously – to natural surroundings. Although the lives of humans are now vastly different to those living on this planet thousands of years ago, a positive response to elements of nature remains. For example, compare your natural response to the thought of time spent in a wildflower meadow, with the feelings generated by exposure to darkness or a steep cliff. Unconscious response to stimuli is based on memory-like functions that cannot be re-written, which means even individuals who are not interested or motivated by plants and nature, suffer from a lack of interaction with nature. Scientists commonly refer to deviations from the way of life for which humans were genetically designed as mismatches. Some mismatches are positive (for example sleeping on a mattress rather than the floor!) but others are negative. Stress can result from mismatches. Exposure to natural areas relieve feelings of stress quickly, as they resemble the environments of the very earliest humans on earth. Whilst towns, cities and dense urban areas may seem familiar to many of us, they are unnatural environments for human beings, which means we cannot trust involuntary reflexes and instead must consciously react to stimuli. The management of animals in zoos is a great way of explaining the theory of how stress can result from environmental mismatches. Zookeepers try to replicate the natural environment of animals in enclosures. Significant failures to

Summer 2020

replicate this natural environment may lead to animals that show stress, which manifests in symptoms such as refusing to eat or aggression. Greenspace within urban areas have been found to give fast restorative reactions from stress, since they resemble the original ‘home’ of humans. The speed of this restorative reaction from stress is fast; research into the environment’s effect on humans has shown visual exposure to real or even simulated views of nature produces substantial emotional and physiological recovery from stress within three to five minutes, and as quickly as 20 seconds in some bodily systems. The importance of composition and size when determining the positive effect of greenspace on humans has also been subject to scientific research. Most famously, in 1984 research carried out by Roger S.Ulrich suggested even the view of trees from a hospital window was enough to reduce the length of time patients remained in hospital following an operation, as well as the amount of medication required to ease pain relief. The discovery made by Ulrich is particularly interesting, given the historic role of the garden in the healing process. The first hospitals in Europe were infirmaries in monastic communities, where a garden was considered an important part of the healing process. Whilst developments in medical science since this period have put far greater reliance on technical

The government has allowed unlimited exercise in public parks like this, as long as a 2m social distance is maintained

approaches to healing, more recent decades have once again looked at the effect of being in nature, or at the very least adding plants to otherwise stale environments.

parks in urban areas differ in their popularity, revealed greenspace of any type has different characters, which manifest though sensations including sight, smell, and sound.

Despite domestic gardens accounting for a significant proportion of greenspace in urban areas, relatively little scientific research has been carried out to identify whether the health benefits of domestic gardens are comparable to public greenspaces.

Whilst research has suggested - rather predictably - that individuals avoid landscapes with rubbish or weeds, it also highlighted that most individuals seek greenspace for the opportunity to experience the simple sounds of wind, water, birds and insects, together with natural areas. In many cases, simple interactions with nature (or perceived nature) were found to be equally important as a vast array of plant species.

Research carried out to date suggests gardens may have a role that is distinct from public greenspaces. Due to their proximity to the home, gardens provide an environment for immediate and sustained contact with nature, together with the opportunity for physical exercise in the form of gardening. Whilst those with access to larger gardens are likely to derive greater physical health benefits directly associated with large open spaces, features within the garden and layout are equally likely to play an important role. The insight that relatively small areas have the potential to provide positive reactions is encouraging, given the trend for urban living and increasingly small areas of outdoor space. Regardless of size, the layout and features of a greenspace can communicate with the visitor and trigger inborn positive or negative responses. Research previously carried out to investigate why neighbouring

Whilst any organ in the human body can suffer from mismatches associated with environment, research has shown the human brain is particularly vulnerable due to its complexity, slow speed of maturation following birth and the nature in which it matures in response to environmental stimuli. Mental disorders are now one of the main health problems in Western societies, which has led to considerable exposure and discussion of the symptoms in more recent years. Research suggests closer links with greenspace is likely to improve psychological health, since those who currently are not sufficiently exposed to plants have reduced life quality. *A survey by the Association of Public Service Excellence.

Summer 2020

A familiar scene for many following the impacts of COVID-19

BALI Landscape News

TRAINING & TECHNICAL

MAKE BEST USE OF YOUR MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS CONTINUED… by Emily Feeney

As mentioned in the Spring edition of Landscape News we would like to continue to highlight to our members the benefits available to you. This edition we would like to focus on two of the promotional opportunities available. At a time that is full of uncertainty, it is vital that our members continue to promote their businesses to potential clients. The BALI National Landscape Awards and BALI’s Use the Professionals promotional leaflets will help you do this. “In these unprecedented times, now more than ever, I’m incredibly grateful for outside space. Whether that’s on my current project or in my own garden. Stopping to appreciate the great outdoors in first bloom reminds me of my own personal growth and my ambitions for the future as I continue to leave my mark on the world”

BALI National Landscape Awards

Nathan Donovan Director, Donovan Landscapes

Winning a BALI National Landscape Award will ensure your business stands out from the crowd. When utilised correctly, your Award win can be used to earn new business, as seen when a previous winner reported a 24% increase in enquiries in the months after winning a BALI National Landscape Award.

“What coronavirus has taught us is that we simply cannot prepare for every eventuality. Although I am obviously concerned about our business, our team and ultimately the figures, it has given us a little extra time to plan things going forward - a luxury we so often do not have. We are right to be cautious and to think about how we spend money right now, but we want to come out of this even stronger as a company and the Awards is the perfect outlet to show people how important landscaping is and how privileged we are to help shape it.”

This year, despite the significant disruption that COVID-19 has had on UK businesses, it has also afforded time to complete those jobs we don’t get around to doing when we’re working at full capacity. One of those being selecting your chosen schemes and preparing your awards pack for submission.

Tessa Johnstone Director, Johnstone Landscapes

As entries continue to pour in, despite the current pandemic, BALI wanted to hear from members as to why they felt it so important to continue to enter their schemes into this years Awards.

To enter your scheme into this year’s Awards please visit baliawards.co.uk. If you have questions, please contact Emily Feeney and Kirsty Wood at awards@bali.org.uk.

World Find a “Our feedback from clients recently bespokclass, luxu Regis rious tered e desi and Membe gns Professional garden design Use the Professionals r has been phenomenal! They are and build from leading BALI contractors promotional leaflets thoroughly enjoying their beautiful Find a Registered Member gardens at this time more than ever. Now, more than ever, it is vital to We designed and built some amazing ensure your business is promoted to gardens last year and we’d like the it’s fullest. To help members ensure opportunity to showcase them to a they stand out from the crowd BALI wider audience. All that meticulous continues to support you with our ‘Use hard work really does pay off!” the Professionals’ promotional leaflets.

Langlea Garden Design & Construction - BALI National Landscape Award Winner 2019

not only transform spaces but also inspire future generations to enjoy the rich and diverse landscape around them and improve the quality of life for everyone. BALI’s ‘Use the Professionals’ leaflets promote this and the benefits of employing a BALI member and should be passed on to prospective customers. BALI Registered members can download and distribute the five varieties of the leaflets and attach it to your quotes or as an accompaniment in your tender packs. The five varieties encompass all of BALI’s Registered member categories/disciplines: • Registered Designer, • Registered Affiliate, • Registered Contractor – Domestic, • Registered Contractor – Commercial • and Registered Contractor – Grounds Maintenance, all highlighting the importance and benefit of engaging a BALI member. Visit your members only area at bali.org.uk to ensure you have downloaded the latest and relevant digital version of the leaflet to send to your clients. Prefer a hard copy? Contact either Emily Feeney at emily.feeney@bali.org.uk or Anna Jackman at anna.jackman@bali.org.uk.

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TRAINING & TECHNICAL

SPOTLIGHT ON

Oak View Landscapes by Richard Gardiner

For the second article in our “Spotlight Series” we take a closer look at Registered Contractor Oak View Landscapes. When I launched this series of articles back in our Winter edition of Landscape News, I said that the four companies we were planning to highlight had all embraced systems and processes and truly embedded them into their business. I also said that they shared some common attributes, including effective leadership and communication and a clear plan and objectives. The senior management team at Colchester based Oak View Landscapes have these attributes in spades! Established in 2004 by Managing Director Paul Downer, Oak View Landscapes has firmly established itself as an exemplar business in the industry, collecting numerous awards throughout their 16-year history. When asked, Paul speaks proudly of all of the company’s achievements and accreditations to-date, but there are some that hold a special place in his heart, including: • Employer Excellence - Principal Award - BALI National Landscape Awards 2017 • Best Landscape Company Over £1m Turnover - Pro Landscaper Business Awards 2017 • Best Landscape Company £2m-£10m Turnover - Pro Landscaper Business Awards 2020 • Supreme Winner - Pro-Landscaper Business Awards 2020

It’s easy to see why the business is so successful in this regard. Its Vision, Mission and Values are no secret, they are displayed loud and proud across their website for all to see. Just five minutes with Paul will tell you that he is passionate about empowering his team to perform at the highest level. Paul says “It’s all very well to have a clear idea and ambition of where you want the business to be and how you want it to feel, but if you can’t, or choose not to consult and communicate this effectively throughout every facet of the business, you drastically reduce the chances of bringing that vision to life”. Unsurprisingly, therefore, Oak View Landscapes are recognised as Gold Investors in People. This coveted accreditation is testament to the importance placed on people management throughout the business, the staff at all levels are regularly consulted on issues affecting them through a number of 1-2-1 meetings, committees and working groups and there is an active staff reward and recognition policy in place. One outcome of this is “Thank you Thursday”, a process that sees Paul personally thanking certain staff members for their efforts that go above and beyond their business objectives.

to develop to such an extent that it runs without them. Whilst Paul is a key part of the business, he is very keen to point out the importance of the wider team, and the fact that there are effective, ISOdocumented systems and processes in place which support new and existing team members, ensuring they deliver the highest level of service possible through a planned, systematic and consistent basis. These processes are regularly reviewed and adjusted in the true spirit of continuous improvement and two have been introduced during lockdown. To sum up the business as a whole, I would say “attention to detail”, from the objectives, strategy and planning to the immaculate vehicles and machinery stores (yes you really could eat your dinner from the floor), Oak View Landscapes leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of delivering their considerable ambitions. Why not take a look for yourself at oakviewlandscapes.co.uk.

Since 2013 Paul has engaged the services of a Business Coach to help him plan, grow and develop the business and keep him accountable. This process is repeated on a 90-day rolling cycle and Paul now mentors and supports other smaller companies too. The process allows business owners to free up their time to work on the business, rather than in it, and allows the business

Summer 2020

Richard Gardiner Technical Officer (Quality Assurance)

BALI Landscape News

TRAINING & TECHNICAL

RECORDBREAKING PLANT PASSPORTING WEBINAR FOR BALI by Owen Baker

On the 21 April 2020, BALI hosted a special webinar to raise awareness of plant health; an opportunity for stakeholders to learn about the risks associated with global trade, as well as how landscape professionals can help stop the spread of the most serious plant pests and diseases by adopting European plant passporting guidance. The webinar was a record-breaking success for BALI, with over 80 virtually attending from across the wider horticulture and landscaping sector, including delegates from the National Trust and the Forestry Commission. The webinar was originally planned to coincide with wider global activities which formed part of the International Year of Plant Health, but these have now been postponed until September 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers from both the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and Forest Research discussed the range of both current and emerging pests and diseases, with a focus on their origins, passage to the UK and likely consequences of their spread. The extent of damage caused by pests and disease already in the UK was also reflected on, with reference to ash dieback, oak processionary moth and emerald ash borer. Dr Sandra Denman from Forest Research discussed her research into oak decline-diseases and explained the likely causes of one of the UK’s most treasured species suffering notable loses in recent years. Once the need for plant biosecurity was addressed, Dr Matthew Casey of Defra discussed the current plant passport system, and how stakeholders should look to incorporate this into their daily work activities. The webinar was a valuable opportunity to remind landscape professionals of the responsibilities associated

BALI Landscape News

with their role in the distribution of plants and plant products. Landscape contractors and landscape designers are now required to register with their competent authority, Defra in England, SASA (Science & Advice for Scottish Agriculture) in Scotland, DAERA (Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs) in Northern Ireland, as a professional operator. This requirement was introduced by European Union legislation in December 2019 and applies to all member countries including those in the transition phase of EU membership. The definition of professional operator includes any person involved professionally in, and legally responsible for, one of more of the following activities concerning plants, plant products and other objects: • Planting • Breeding • Production, including growing, multiplying and maintaining • Introduction into, and movement within and out of, the Union territory • Making available on the market • Storage, collection, dispatching and processing The definition is sufficiently broad to encompass most businesses in the landscape industry. Registration is intended to improve traceability of plant pests and disease, and places additional responsibilities on the registered business.

Summer 2020

Under the new legislation, UK-based plant nurseries and wholesalers will be tasked with operating a more stringent plant passport system

Registered operators are required to keep a record of all plants they receive which require a plant passport. The aim of this record is to ensure the operator, if required, can identify which professional operator (a business authorised to issue plant passports) supplied them with a specific consignment of plants, commonly called a trade unit. Records must be retained for three years, either digitally or physically. The UK landscape industry has evolved to rely on overseas suppliers for plants and plant products. As with other commodities, global supply chains have evolved to enable fast transport of a range of products and enabled access to a range of plants. Whilst this offers many opportunities to the landscape industry, global trade of plants poses a risk to biosecurity, and without precautions could have serious, long-term consequences. Thanks to the work of Defra and researchers, the mechanisms required to ensure the continued health of UK landscapes are now available. BALI continues to celebrate the diversity of plants available to stakeholders but urges landscape professionals to reflect on their responsibility to ensure their practices do not put the biosecurity and livelihoods of others in the industry at risk. To read more about plant passporting regulations visit bali.org.uk/helpand-advice/contracts-law-andregulations/smarter-rules-forsafer-food. To request to watch the OnDemand recording of the plant health webinar held on 21 April 2020 contact darren.taylor@bali.org.uk for the link.

TRAINING & TECHNICAL

1.4M MORE CHILDREN COULD PLAY SPORTS WEEKLY, IF GRASS PITCHES WERE IMPROVED Latest report from the Grounds Management Association (GMA) reveals need for more investment, volunteers and resources to kickstart and boost grassroots sport participation post lockdown. A new report* by the Grounds Management Association (GMA) revealed that junior participation levels in rugby and football could increase by almost 1.4 million (1,376,252) children every week, and in cricket, by almost half a million (489,859) per season. With the right investment, guidance and care, a massive 4 million more children’s football matches could be played on existing pitches every year. The data, gathered through national Playing Pitch Strategies, the Grounds and Natural Turf Investment Programme (GaNTIP) data, and a national survey of over 4,000 people, shows the huge opportunity for change. With the nation desperate for sport to resume, and many individuals being more active than ever before, the leading not-for-profit membership

organisation for the grounds sector is calling for volunteers, investment, and more resources to improve access to communitylevel sport. The report also highlights the impact if nothing is done. Over the next decade, one in five football and rugby players, and half of cricket players will be left unable to play weekly or seasonally. This equates to over half a million players a week, and 170,000 players during a cricket season. Geoff Webb, CEO at GMA, said:

“Across the world, playing and watching sport has been sorely missed. We’ve realised how much it means to us. After a season of no sport, now is the time to ensure pitches are playable when games resume. We know that if we act now, we can turn the tide and even improve access to local grass pitches. But, without immediate long-term investment and care, the huge benefits of sport for mental and physical health, community cohesion and the economy, will be lost to millions every year.”

GMA CEO Geoff Webb

*The report can be downloaded from: thegma.org.uk/sites/default/files/ documents/pages/gma-back_to_ play_report-2020.pdf For more information visit thegma.org.uk or contact Ollie Swan +44(0)7950 800907 or GMA@standagency.com.

Arboricultural Association and Tree Officer Groups Launch Watering Campaign The Arboricultural Association, London Tree Officers Association (LTOA), Municipal Tree Officers Association (MTOA) and the Association of Tree Officers (ATO) have launched a campaign to ensure that newly planted trees are watered regularly over the summer months, highlighting the fact that young tree maintenance is just as important as planting. The dry weather, which much of the UK experienced during April, raised the question about how trees might be affected by COVID-19 if those people who ordinarily water them are no longer able to do so. Hundreds of thousands of trees have been planted over the last couple of years, but without proper aftercare they will not make it into maturity.

The Association has worked with tree officers across the country to develop new materials for a tree watering

campaign which was launched on 1 May 2020. This collaborative project has resulted in an information poster and watering tags which can be printed at home and affixed to tree stakes or tied to the tree. These are free to download and can be found online at trees.org. uk/watering.

Many local authorities and community groups have developed their own labels for trees to encourage residents to water them, but the Association felt there was a need for more generic material which would be used by residents, community groups and local authorities throughout the country if they did not have the time or resources to produce their own.

Summer 2020

BALI Landscape News

DESIGNER FOCUS

TIPS TO PASS DESIGNER MEMBERSHIP by Rosemary Coldstream MBALI MSGD and Tony Woods MBALI MSGD

BALI Landscape News

Summer 2020

Garden Club London Copyright Joanna Kossack

Becoming a BALI Registered Designer is a great achievement and offers a lot of benefits for members. The adjudications are carried out by a team of highly qualified designer members who meet four times a year and will be setting dates for the next adjudications shortly. With this in mind we wanted to highlight a few common mistakes or gaps in submissions to make the process smoother. Some common problems encountered are the following: Drawings: These must be clear to read and don’t put everything on one plan. Separate out levels from the concept plan if the visual presentation makes it difficult for a contractor to read. With CAD software it is easy enough to produce plans that show the detail clearly. If hand drawn just ensure it is clear. Go through the checklist BALI will provide and ensure you submit everything in one go.

Planting Plans: Make sure existing

trees that remain are on the plans. Ensure groups of plants are easy to read. Imagine you are producing these plans for someone else to set out. Keys are not ideal as they can be very difficult to read.

Levels and Drainage: Good design involves good levels and drainage solutions. With levels ensure there are enough on the plan to show a landscape contractor what you have planned. Make sure, if there are existing levels to be retained, these are clearly marked as such. With drainage it is essential to get to grips with what the basics you need to know. Ensure falls on paving are appropriate to the material

being used and that water run-off has somewhere to go. Flush thresholds require drains by the house and manhole covers are shown.

Site Analysis: We need to see that you have assessed the site looking at where the sun and shade is, views to keep or disguise, wet areas, existing plants to keep and anything else relevant. A notated survey plan or written comments are both fine.

including a ‘What Good Looks Like’ for later in 2020. Please contact BALI’s Sales Officer Alex Newberry, alex. newberry@bali.org.uk if you would like further details on becoming a Registered Designer. Alternatively, you can call +44(0)24 7669 0333 or visit bali.org.uk/members/join-BALI.

Soil: This is an area often overlooked

and should be done at the site analysis stage. Ideally a simple pH test and a description of the soil is fine i.e. heavy clay under 3” topsoil; very compacted with poor drainage, pH 6.5-7. It needs to be site specific (not a soil map of a large area) as we want to know you have analysed the site properly. It also means we can assess if the planting plans are suitable for the location.

Photos: We need to see before and after with wide shots needed as well as details. These don’t need to be professional photos or perfect, but it helps us ‘read’ the garden quickly. We are planning to host future BALI seminars to help with improving designers’ skills with drainage,

Summer 2020

BALI Landscape News

CHARITY Ben Preston, Head Gardener at Perennial’s Garden, York Gate, Leeds

HortAid-20 Gardening Competition kickstarts Perennial’s emergency COVID-19 appeal This is a year like no other. As many of us stay at home to protect the NHS and support keyworkers, we have more time to spend tending our gardens, courtyards, driveways, window boxes or balconies than ever before. Even though some supplies are difficult to find during lockdown, our home gardens and green spaces have never looked so good! As many of the national and local garden competitions have been cancelled, Perennial, the charity for people in horticulture, has stepped up with the largest ever virtual garden competition. The competition will celebrate gardens of all shapes and sizes across the UK and raise funds at a time when Perennial’s services are needed most. The HortAid-20 Gardening Competition is open to anyone until 15 August 2020. Alan Titchmarsh MBE will be joined by a team of the country’s finest gardeners who will be judging the photographs submitted by individuals as part of the competition. Full entry details can be found online at perennial.org.uk/home/how-you-canhelp/gardening-competition. Following requests from Perennial Partners for more background on Perennial and how they work, this issue we have focussed on how they can help you. Perennial are the UK’s only charity dedicated to helping all people who

BALI Landscape News

work in or are retired from horticulture, whether you work with plants, trees, grass or flowers. Their team are there for you throughout your career in horticulture, and beyond. Their nationwide friendly team are available to work with you on an individual basis to help with the challenges you face, be it due to a life changing situation such as illness, accident, bereavement or redundancy, or the current challenges we are facing with the COVID-19 pandemic. Perennial’s helpline is operating as usual on +44(0)800 093 8543 or visit perennial.org.uk to fill out the contact form. The confidential helpline is open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm.

Summer 2020

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EVENTS

Looking ahead to the BALI National Landscape Awards 2020 The BALI National Landscape Awards, the largest industry awards ceremony of its kind in Europe, is still scheduled to take place at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London on Friday 4 December 2020. We caught up with Emily Feeney and Kirsty Wood, who both currently project manage the Awards in-house, to provide an update to members on what this year’s awards might look like in light of COVID-19.

Has the virus had an impact on overall entry levels and the members’ ability to compile submission packs? We are pleased with the level of entries received to date however there is a further month to go before entries close fully. Understandably due to the timing of the launch of entries and the arrival of COVID-19, we have seen a small impact on entry levels, however members have used their time wisely during ‘lockdown’ to not only complete their entry(ies) but also to ensure they are using the opportunity through the Awards platform to market and promote their company, whilst also supporting their trade association.

How will the schemes be judged over the summer? Has anything had to change to allow this to happen? We are constantly reviewing both Government and Public Health England & Scotland guidelines to ensure we are acting on the latest advice. Discussions have taken place with our adjudication panel and we welcomed the recent uplift in guidelines to allow our adjudicators to meet with members and their clients to complete the adjudication visits. Adjudicators will be carrying out their visits with appropriate PPE and hand sanitizer provided by BALI to minimise risk whilst also ensuring they adhere to strict social distancing guidelines at all times.

Will the normal amount of tickets be available when they go on sale in August, or will there be a reduced capacity for 2020? At this point in time the honest answer is we do not know. To date, at the time of responding, there hasn’t been any guidance given by Government on large scale events taking place later in the year. We are of course poised ready for further guidance and have several contingency plans available to us should they become necessary.

Tell readers more about what the contingency plans look like should they need to be put in place? We have had discussions with both our venue, JW Marriott Grosvenor House and our production company H2 Events, who are as eager as we are for this year’s ceremony to go ahead, however they are equally as aware as we are that in due course restrictions may be placed on an event of this size by Government. Our shared number one priority will always remain the health, safety and wellbeing of all our guests. We have already explored different avenues when it comes to contingency plans, including a date change to move the ceremony into 2021 or the potential of a virtual awards ceremony for 2020. Further details of our plans will be released as we move through the year and hopefully gain a clearer understanding on how guidelines will look for the latter part of the year. Entries are now closed for Registered Designer/Contractor/Group categories, however Affiliates Exceptional Service, International and Employer Excellence categories remain open until 8 July 2020. Contact awards@bali.org.uk or visit baliawards.co.uk for more details.

Kirsty Wood

Remembering the good times at the BALI National Landscape Awards 2019

It remains to be seen whether this year’s Awards will be held virtually

BALI Landscape News

Emily Feeney

Summer 2020

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PRODUCT & AFFILIATE NEWS Introducing Makita’s new cordless outdoor power equipment Registered Affiliate Makita recently expanded its cordless outdoor power equipment range. The new, higher specification products powered by its LXT battery platform ensure that there is a tool for any job, that matches the daily demands of working outdoors.

From Brushless Lawn Mowers and Hedge Trimmers to Linetrimmers and Brush Cutters. With Makita’s cordless outdoor power equipment, you can experience outstanding performance and power, as well as extended run times and an optimised charging process for maximum on-site productivity.

To find out more about the new and existing range of Makita products visit makitauk.com. Read the full article online Mark Earles, Business Development Manager for garden machinery at Makita, has provided BALI with a more detailed review of the benefits of cordless machines and introduces Makita’s new cordless outdoor power equipment in full. The article is available on the BALI website bali.org.uk/help-and-advice/equipment/ landscape-machinery/makita

GOOD VIBRATIONS: CREATING EFFICIENCY THROUGH TECHNOLOGY WITH OVERTEC Registered Affiliate member Overtec, who joined BALI in March, are helping landscapers go from green to greener by providing an innovative, technological solution to everyday tasks within the industry. Overtec, based in Cheshire, are advocates of lean management principals and are using their tools of technology to help clients with everyday record keeping, asset management, job scheduling and despatch. With innovation at the forefront of the operations, a user-friendly system enables clients to manage sites and tasks efficiently. The paperless solution promotes a green and lean approach to monitoring many aspects of landscaping and horticultural work. Joint Managing Director at Overtec, David Armstrong, explains further “We aim to streamline the administrative processes used within the industry right now, from ground maintenance audits to spray logs, we can setup simple yet effective paperless solutions that reduce wasted time and make financial savings”. Additional benefits of the paperless technology include thorough risk assessments to increase safety at work and pioneering H. A. V. S. reports

BALI Landscape News

created by calculating users’ input on jobs, equipment, and timings to ensure hand and arm vibrations are recorded accurately. Celebrating both its 10th anniversary and BALI accreditation this year, Overtec has welcomed its links to the landscaping sector by working with a multitude of BALI registered companies, both big and small, to further develop and tailor their solutions to each individual company’s needs. Matt O’Conner- Managing Director of John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance,

“We are delighted to have been working with Overtec since 2017. At the time we were looking to streamline reporting and collect reliable service data stats. We have achieved both using the InForm solution which has improved operator efficiency, reduced paperwork and provided transparency to our customers. I would have no hesitation in recommending Overtec to any business looking to digitise workflow processes.”

Summer 2020

Overtec is looking forward to working with more BALI members to further co-create these technological solutions and continue to help steer the industry towards being an even more innovative, efficient and greener sector. Overtec is charged on a per user per month basis with no minimum monthly fee and offers a substantially discounted price to all BALI members. For more information or a live demonstration of InForm, please contact: info@overtec.co.uk or telephone +44(0)1925 748146.

PRODUCT & AFFILIATE NEWS

Living Wall at Fujifilm House of Photography

Living Wall at Nottingham Trent University

LIVEPANEL TRIO FOR MOBILANE Since Autumn 2019, Registered Affiliate Mobilane has had several busy quarters working with well-known brands including Fujifilm and Nottingham Trent University Music Centre, as well as supplying LivePanel Living Wall systems for a series of Liverpool waterfront apartments. In December 2019, Fujifilm opened its House of Photography, a new concept experience centre in Covent Garden, London. Working with installation partner Oasis Plants, Mobilane supplied a LivePanel Living Wall from their extensive range of interior and exterior ready-made green systems. The LivePanel is a modular system of profiles and interchangeable plant cassettes with slots into which plants are placed. This allows for the maximum of flexibility in planting theme and creates a naturally lush space-saving wallscape. Setting out to achieve a vibrancy of foliage behind the central camera and lens demo area in the London Fujifilm showcase, several designs were submitted with different leaf, flower and texture planting combinations including Guzmania, Anthurium, Asplenium, Vriesa, Ficus repens, Philodendron Scandens and Dracaena Green Jewel. The end result is a 23 square metres spectacular, natural, visual living wall. Its shades and forms are extremely photogenic – perfect for picture-taking and picture-making as visitors zoom, focus and test the cameras and lenses on display.

ivy and hardy shrubs in Euonymus and pachysandra, the plant choice allows a dense blanket with foliage and form interest and contrast.

Mobilane also supplied a 38sqm bespoke LivePanel Living Wall for The Music Centre at Nottingham Trent University, creating a symphony of colour. The new Music Centre’s wall not only adds a splash of natural beauty but will encourage biodiversity in its proximity. The University facilities team wanted to make a bold and vibrant statement on the exterior of this refurbishment project. The living wall was the finishing touch on a twophase project on the site that saw the University Hall extended and latterly the sympathetic addition of the new Music Centre.

To find out more about LivePanel and Mobilane’s complete range of readymade green systems for interior and exterior landscapes, visit mobilane. co.uk, call +44(0) 203 741 8049 or email sales@mobilane.co.uk.

Living Wall on Liverpool’s waterfront

Rounding off the trio of projects, Mobilane also supplied LivePanel Living Walls for a prestigious residential development on Liverpool’s waterfront. 80sqm of living wall stands proud against the apartment block and esplanade at this development in Sefton Street, Liverpool. Plant selection was planned in detail with consideration of the wall’s location alongside what will be a busy thoroughfare, its restricted light exposure and ongoing maintenance opportunities. With 3,600 individual plants including varieties of grasses,

Summer 2020

BALI Landscape News

PRODUCT & AFFILIATE NEWS

HY-TEX (UK) CONTINUE TO OPERATE DESPITE COVID-19 Registered Affiliate Hy-Tex (UK) are proud to share that the company has been highly adaptable during the COVID-19 outbreak. Despite the challenges that everyone in the industry has had to cope with, HyTex (UK) has continued to operate throughout as efficiently - and most importantly - as safely as possible, without putting any of their employees at risk. Hy-Tex (UK) are a family business who pride themselves on their core values of providing innovative solutions for their valued customers, whilst offering a friendly service with reliable support along the way. With this in mind, their approach has been the same when tackling the challenges that 2020 has provided so far.

MCM PROVIDES SUPPLIES TO LOTTERY-FUNDED PARK RESTORATION Registered Affiliate MCM has continued to operate throughout COVID-19, adhering to the latest site, social and safety distancing guidelines at all times. One of their most prestigious projects to date is an ongoing collaboration with Registered Contractor idverde at the historic heritage site of Kearsney Court, Dover in Kent. The lottery-funded restoration includes major works by the idverde team on this £1.4 million programme, including restoration works of Thomas Mawson’s landscape within Russell Gardens, a bridge construction in Kearsney Abbey across the ornamental lake as well as new pathways, a natural wood play area and café terracing. MCM have been heavily involved, removing waste materials by the truckload and the MCM team returned with deliveries, first of British Standard certified topsoil for the bed and lawn preparation, then with Type 1, 6F5 aggregates for the hard landscaping preparation.

and supply swiftly and safely to site to ensure the Park’s restoration plans could continue uninterrupted. For more information on MCM’s range of high performance topsoils, subsoils, aggregates and site management services, get in touch with MCM on +44(0)330 1281 030, by email info@ mcm-se.com or website mcm-se.com.

The ongoing works also required the regular and consistent supply of fines-free crushed concrete and concrete mixes as the path and paved areas progressed. The availability and supply of recycled materials, a key requirement for such a prestigious heritage project, had been hampered by restrictions and consequences of the current pandemic but MCM were able to source

BALI Landscape News

Summer 2020

Hy-Tex (UK) has managed to stay open for the entirety of the ongoing national emergency with all customer support activities being maintained via home working. Their warehouse has also continued to operate safely, but on minimal staffing and limited hours. Of course, Hy-Tex (UK) continue to review their approach based on the latest government advice, whilst ensuring they support their customers to the best of their ability within the restrictions. Overall, the vital message that Hy-Tex want to highlight is as follows – Hy-Tex (UK) understand that during this difficult time it is not about sales, next new product, or latest marketing campaign, that time will come. Instead, it is about staying safe and supporting all the influential people and organisations that have helped keep the country going at this crucial time. To those people, we say thank you and are grateful every day. Stay safe, everyone! hy-tex.co.uk

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS FOR SUPPORTING THE BALI NATIONAL LANDSCAPE AWARDS 2020 Headline Sponsor