Landscape & Urban Design - Issue 62

CONTENTS ISSUE 62

THIS ISSUES MAIN FEATURES

Garden Design

4 - Introducing “Heavenly Yours” – a collection that celebrates the profound connection between humans and nature along with the beauty of outdoor furniture design.

10 - As a progressive plant supplier to the industry, Provender Nurseries are always looking out for plants that are beneficial to the end user and the environment.

12 - Wyndham Garden Phu Quoc provides not only a private relaxation space but also a view of the sky and nature.

20 - Garden rooms are proven to add value to your home while giving you the extra space or change that homeowners crave when looking to move.

Decking

26 - Ecodek, the leading UK-based manufacturer of sustainable Wood Polymer Composite (WPC) decking, is expanding its deck board range.

28 - Enhancing Landscapes with Sustainable Luxury Decking.

30 - Make the most of wood to help the world’s climate.

Green & Blue Infrastructure

36 - Carvolth Integrated Open Space represents a seamless combination of form and function with a linear green space.

40 -Green-tech provides lightweight soil and laser-cut grilles for awardwinning ‘vertical forest’ hotel.

42 - PosadMaxwan, an urban design firm from The Hague, The Netherlands, has designed the unique main entrance to the underground bicycle parking area located beneath the city of Zwolle’s train station square.

Urban Design

46 - Landscape architecture practice Influence Landscape Planning and Design is celebrating the completion of its second High Street Heritage Action Zone project.

Landscaping Services

52 - RHS Garden Wisley has chosen Otterbine to provide its flagship garden with sustainable irrigation.

60 - BioScapes® delivers a biodiversity boost to RHS Garden Harlow Carr.

66 - Visitor registration for GroundsFest 2023 is now officially open.

Sports & Play

70 - Jupiter Play & Leisure have partnered with renowned holiday destination Butlin’s to design and build SKYPARK.

73 - Playspaces announce the launch of their exciting New Robinia Forest Range.

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Antony Holter editor@mmhagazine.co.uk

Editor Lorna Davidson lorna@landud.co.uk

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Josh Holmes josh@mhmagazine.co.uk

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Sarah Johnson

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effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Landscape & Urban Design however, the publishers accept no responsibility for the claims or opinions made by advertisers, manufactures or contributors. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic (including photocopying) or stored in any information retrieval system without the prior consent of the publisher.

Cover images courtesy of: Left: Take Off Photography for PMG Architects | Top Right: Smith & Wallwork Engineers for WPA | Bottom Right: Jupiter Play & Leisure

HEAVENLY YOURS: NEW OUTDOOR COLLECTION

BY INTERIORR.COM

Introducing “Heavenly Yours” –a collection that celebrates the profound connection between humans and nature along with the beauty of outdoor furniture design.

‘Heavenly yours’ is an outdoor concept to remind you that living outside is a worthy experience. Having dinner or a casual drink under the open sky, relaxing next to the pool, reading a book seated in a comfy lounge area, this is living. Living that can be done best with

designs so simple yet elevated, that they bring calm, contentment and gratitude.

Seasonal living is slow living: one where you feel embraced by nature just like the natural teak wood or rattan pieces featured in our collection. “Heavenly Yours” presents an array of stunning dining chairs, dynamic lounge areas, statement sun loungers, garden benches, and armchairs – everything you need to live outside as much as

possible and with an effortless style. Let’s delve into the enchantment that awaits you in this collection.

Starting with the Lille outdoor sofa lounge set, meticulously crafted from grey fabric, it creates the perfect ambiance in your patio or garden. With its one-of-a-kind design, this set offers the epitome of outdoor lounging experience. It includes a loveseat and two chairs, each equipped with side pockets for your convenience, plus a beautiful

table. Sink into its comfortable cushions and allow yourself to unwind, as the robust and durable construction ensures years of enchanting moments.

Immerse yourself in the ultimate outdoor relaxation with the Teodor garden chair in natural teak. Made from premium quality teak wood, this chair is not only durable but also radiates elegance in any outdoor space. Experience optimal comfort and support with its thoughtfully designed backrest and seat. The easy maintenance adds to the allure, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the tranquillity of your surroundings.

Elevate your home decor with the Madera natural teak bench, showcasing the stunning beauty of wood. Its unique grain patterns and warm finish embody the elegance of

teak wood. This handcrafted piece, sourced sustainably, brings a touch of sophistication to any setting. Whether placed outdoors or indoors, its versatile design and durability make it a perfect addition to your home or trade interior.

Introducing the Kyto outdoor sofabed lounge set, a versatile and stylish ensemble that adapts to your outdoor space effortlessly. Crafted from grey rattan, this set includes two lounge chairs, each consisting of four separate components for dynamic use. Its durability and resistance to the elements ensure a timeless appearance for years to come. Maximise your comfort as you relax in its plush cushions, and allow your outdoor space to become an oasis of tranquillity.

Transform your garden or patio with the Boca garden bench in natural

teak wood. Witness the remarkable enhancement it brings to your outdoor look. With its classic design and exceptional durability, this bench invites you to unwind in style. Embrace its minimal maintenance nature, as the teak wood remains weather-resistant and resilient in even the harshest conditions.

Let the Akosia teak sunlounger whisk you away into a realm of serenity. Crafted from natural teak wood, this sunlounger combines durability and style seamlessly. Adjust the backrest effortlessly to find your desired comfort level, while the wheels allow for easy mobility and storage. Indulge in nature’s embrace as you bask in its lumbar support and exquisite seating, creating an unparalleled outdoor relaxation experience.

For outdoor dining, the Terry dining chair in natural rattan is an impeccable choice. Its blend of comfort and style elevates any outdoor setup. Crafted from high-quality natural rattan, this chair boasts timeless design and durability. Its lightweight nature adds versatility, allowing you to effortlessly arrange your patio or deck for any occasion, whether hosting a grand dinner party or savouring intimate family moments. Offered in natural wood colour or all-black version, plus a fellow sofa design for those willing to create a full Terry look.

“Heavenly Yours” is more than a collection; it’s an invitation to embrace outdoor living as a heavenly experience, where comfort, style, and a deep connection to the natural world intertwine. Be our guest at interiorr.com and explore exquisite rattan and teak wood designs, from stunning dining chairs to dynamic lounge areas, statement sun loungers, garden benches, and armchairs. We assure you that each piece is meticulously crafted with the utmost attention to detail, ensuring not only beauty but also durability and longevity. interiorr.com

BEAUTIFUL AND FUNCTIONAL UNIQUE SCULPTURES, PLANTERS AND FURNITURE, HANDMADE IN ENGLAND

Villiers designs and creates beautiful furniture and works of art. Built with the finest materials and superb craftsmanship, pieces are individually made to last more than a lifetime.

Venturing into the great outdoors, the latest Villiers work features exquisite sculptures and large planters — launched this year and available in zinc and stainless combinations as well as rust and stainless steel finishes. Designed to breathe new life into external spaces, the materials are chosen so they can evolve with time and exposure to the elements – each unique to its surroundings.

Every Villiers piece is made to order, whether working to an existing design, or a one-off bespoke commission. Designs can be customised with different colourways, shapes and sizes, and

planters can be supplied with trees, adding the final flourishes to achieve a signature look.

With well-honed artisanal skills, Villiers combines traditional methods and machinery with modern tools and technology. One of the most valuable machines in the workshop is a 100-year-old power hammer, and blacksmithing is an integral part of the production process – an ancient metal working skill that they are keen to keep alive through the specialist expertise of the team.

Alongside the new outdoor collection are beautiful dining and console tables, mirrors, lighting, and modern metal furniture, each designed to complement elegant and aesthetic interiors. Villiers has built an outstanding reputation over 30 years, with classic and contemporary pieces displayed in

the finest hotels, private residences, yachts and luxury spas across the world.

Villiers will be exhibiting at Landscape, the industry trade show at NEC Birmingham, 27th and 28th September 2023.

The new collection of planters are currently displayed at the flagship Linley store in Belgravia. You can view a selection of sculptures and furniture online at www.villiers.co.uk and keep up to date with the latest designs and works in progress on Instagram @villiersfurniture.

For enquiries and further details about Villiers, please contact the team at hello@villiers.co.uk or telephone 01799 516680.

SUPPLYING, PLANTING AND RELOCATING TREES SINCE 1963

Civic Trees was founded in 1963, Civic Trees has become one of the market leaders in the supply, planting and relocating of mature and semi-mature trees. We also offer soft landscaping schemes and have a dedicated landscaping team operating throughout the UK.

We are proud of our reputation for efficient, cost effective and reliable tree management. You can be confident that through our exemplary commitment to staff training and development, our work meets the highest technical and safety standards.

Working on prestigious UK and European landscape developments such as screening the Berlin Wall, emphasising the approaches to

Disneyland Paris and re-developing London’s Trafalgar Square, Civic Trees has been involved in several remarkable projects.

Our customers range from local authorities seeking a partnership solution for the management of their trees and vegetation in parks, gardens, highways and developments: to commercial and domestic clients requiring tree care, vegetation management or landscape establishment.

We build close professional relationships to ensure we understand and meet the needs of our individual clients. We are proud that our clients are happy to recommend us and keep using our services.

We employ professionally trained and certified personnel. Our policy of continuing professional development ensures that all personnel receive ongoing training and education.

Our experts can offer advice on species selection, form and size. We supply trees from a wide range of leading growers in the UK and Europe and find the trees that you want, not sell you trees that we have.

PROVEN WINNERS AT PROVENDER NURSERIES

As a progressive plant supplier to the industry, Provender Nurseries are always looking out for plants that are beneficial to the end user and the environment.

We think we have found a solution in the Proven Winners® range of plants. Provender Nurseries have been stockists of the Proven Winners® range for some years and with the rise in demand for plants that are heat tolerant, drought resistant and cold tolerant we thought we would shine the spotlight on Proven Winners® as they really fit the bill.

The Proven Winners® range is the result of years of plant breeding to produce quality plants with many attractive qualities for landscapers, garden designers, landscape architects and all areas where quality shrubs would be used.

Proven Winners® have been bred to have longer flowering periods making them an attractive source of

food for pollinators. Compact growth habits make them an excellent choice for domestic gardens, parks and urban areas. Great drought tolerance means these plants are able to stand up to our ever-changing climate. Being pest and disease resistant results in less chemical applications required. Multiple seasons of interest make them an invaluable choice to provide interest for long periods of time.

Popular plants within the Proven Winners® range include Hydrangea arborescens Pink Annabelle, a sturdy Hydrangea with large heads of rich pink flowers that are continuously produced all summer providing a long season of interest, Hydrangea arborescens Strong Annabelle that has huge balls of white flowers produced on sturdy upright stems that are capable of holding the large blooms and Diervilla rivularis Kodiak Red, an excellent shrub choice for dry shade with interesting foliage colour that turns bright red in the autumn.

With over 50 plant selections

Provender Nurseries are sure you will find a Proven Winners® plant that fits your criteria no matter how large your project. 3L to 25L options held in stock all year round.

Heat tolerant, drought tolerant and hardy down to -25ºC Proven Winners® work hard so you don’t have to. https://www.provendernurseries. co.uk/products/search_field/

MIA DESIGN STUDIO

• Area: 70000 m²

Photographs: Hiroyuki Oki, Trieu Chien

• Contractors: Nam Group

The land area has no view of the seaside. From that disadvantage of Wyndham Garden Phu Quoc, we decided to design garden villas with

large courtyards inside Vietnamese traditional houses. While designing the master plan, we planned the villas close to each other as the traditional villages in Vietnam. With images of bamboo pathways, the traffic roads inside the project have been designed in small sizes and winding shapes as countryside

alleys in Vietnam to help people feel acquainted.

Each group of 5 or 7 villas creates a small hamlet with separated paths and a shared yard. Meanwhile, each villa still retains a private, quiet, and romantic space with unique architecture. We remain the privacy

of the villas with three-meter walls and maximize the opening to nature by putting no door inside each of them.

Implemented with a unique design with a connection from nature to humans, the spaces in every villa of the resort make us feel like getting lost in the greenery. Rooms and

gardens are privately covered with a greenery curtain hanging on the roof. The spaces in the villa are opened to collect natural sunlight in every corner. That makes the villa become a harmonious combination of nature and architecture.

Inside every villa, the furniture is also made of rustic materials which

are friendly to nature. Along with the one-story structure, Wyndham Garden Phu Quoc provides not only a private relaxation space but also a view of the sky and nature.

Architects: MIA Design Studio www.miadesignstudio.com

HEDGES FOR HOMES:

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST

Choosing an instant hedge for your garden projects creates immediate impact. This type of hedging is pre grown and sold by the linear metre, rather than as individual plants. These mature hedges are available to plant all year round. We have taken the time to grow these hedges, so you don’t have to.

Which Hedge?

Instant hedging is available in various species and sizes up to 2m high, so how will you choose which one is best for your project? The first choice is whether its evergreen instant hedging for privacy screening or the seasonal interest of a mature deciduous option.

Evergreen hedges maintain their foliage throughout the year. This provides screening, privacy and shelter all year round. Despite their name, an evergreen hedge isn’t just one colour! It comes in many different varieties to suit your individual taste. If you like bright colours, then the apple green leaves of Griselinia could be your favourite. If shiny leaves are more your thing, then its Common Laurel. For classic elegance, nothing can really beat the traditional Yew. Or if subtle greys are what your garden needs, then Elaeagnus would be perfect.

Deciduous hedges tend to shed their leaves in the winter. They offer year-round seasonal interest from flowers, coloured foliage, or autumn fruits.

Hawthorn, for example, has an abundant display of white scented early spring blossom, and red haws in the autumn. Both Beech (Green and Purple) and Hornbeam have wonderful autumn bursts of coloured foliage, and Beech retains most of its leaves through the winter too. Native Mix hedging replicates the traditional country hedgerows found across Britain and local wildlife will be attracted by the food and shelter opportunities.

There are many more varieties of instant hedge that will help make your garden your perfect outdoor space.

RHS Hampton Court 2023

The Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, set in the stunning grounds of the Historic Royal Palace in Richmond upon Thames, is the world’s largest annual flower show, with over 130,000 visitors attending the show each year.

Every year, top garden designers choose Practicality Brown’s hedges and trees as an integral part of their show garden, forming an important green backdrop or as part of the structure within the design itself. This year, Practicality Brown will be exhibiting at Hampton Court, showcasing Practical Instant Hedge™ and evergreen screening trees on our trade stand and garden installation.

If you are attending RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival between 4th and 9th July, please come and find us at location number HC294. Experts will be on hand to provide advice and information on our instant hedging and screening trees.

Alternatively, if you would like to visit our nursery in Iver, Bucks or to talk to our Horticultural team please call us on 01753 652022. You can also email us at hedge@pracbrown.co.uk. Or visit our website: www.pracbrown.co.uk

Practical Instant Hedge™

Practical Instant Hedge™ is pre-grown in 1m long pieces at our nursery in Buckinghamshire, which means it is easy to handle and it can be planted all year round without “transplant” shock. This quality, mature hedging provides screening, privacy, security and shelter from pollutants such as dirt and noise.

It is available in evergreen and deciduous, so plenty of options for all gardens.

Call our Horticultural team for a quote on 01753 652022 or explore our website www.pracbrown.co.uk

PRACTICALITY BROWN LTD

THE Instant Hedge Specialists

Swan Road Iver Bucks SL0 9LA

• Permeable options

• Contain recycled material

• Reduce your consumption of virgin aggregate

• Showerproof packaging – protecting your assets

Green Manufacturing

Based in Lower Withington, Near Macclesfield only five miles from junction 18 M6, we have great access to all major link roads.

Our huge range of stock includes olives and palms in pots from 1litre up to 1,000 litres available all year round. Four Oaks has an extensive product line of over 1,500 lines of trees and shrubs on display from starter plants to specimen sizes

We have recently added garden furniture to our portfolio and increased our already extensive pot range from 2” to 500 Litre pots including terracotta, glazed and genuine half whiskey barrels.

www.fouroaks-nurseries.com

Plants & Sundries for the Trade

Hedging - Topiary Buxus - Laurus Nobilis Shrubs & Trees

Added Value Lines - April onwards:Superb range of Hanging Baskets, Planted Patio Pots, 13cm potted Zonal Geraniums, Fuchias, Osteospermums, Marguerites & Standard Fuchias in 10 litre pots. Sundries - Garden Stoneware Yorkshire Flowerpots - Draper Tools

TRANSFORM THE OUTDOORS IN AN INSTANT WITH READYHEDGE

Expertly Grown

Readyhedge ready to plant hedges are grown to be fully mature, under the watchful eye of our hedging experts. This ensures every tough of hedging is identical and already knitted together to provide stunning hedging, instantly. Our aim is to fulfil orders in 48 hours, we offer secure and punctual delivery to any location within the country.

For more information contact Readyhedge on 01386 750585 or visit www.readyhedgeltd.com

Follow us on Social Media:

Facebook @Readyhedgeltd

Twitter @Readyhedge

Instagram @readyhedge

Give your garden project and instant uplift with ready to plant hedges. Suitable for all garden types, both commercial and domestic.

At Readyhedge you can choose from:

Metre long lengths

Various heights – from 30cm tall to 200cm tall

• Available in Readyhedge bags or Readyhedge troughs

Our hedging expertise spans 20 years+, producing over 50,000 metres of instant hedging per year in over 35 varieties. This includes individual plants, low and high panels and even screens.

Wide variety of hedges

Discover the large selection of evergreen, deciduous and mixed native hedging available. There are quick growing hedges, semi evergreen, formal hedges, and even low maintenance hedges to choose from!

GROWN IN THE UK SINCE 2003 FROM THE HOME OF INSTANT HEDGING READYHEDGE

Readyhedge hedging plants, like the mixed native hedging shown here, are container-grown in the UK and fully acclimatised to UK conditions. With over 20 years’ experience, Readyhedge delivers hedging to rely on, wherever you are.

info@readyhedge.com

GARDEN ROOMSDON’T MOVE, IMPROVE!

Garden rooms are proven to add value to your home while giving you the extra space or change that homeowners crave when looking to move.

Instead of considering the upheaval and costs, improving your home with a garden room could be the cost-effective alternative that satisfies the itch.

There’s a reason why garden rooms and offices have been the number one most popular home feature. Rightmove property expert Tim Bannister says, “Features like an outdoor office space have soared as working patterns have changed.”

Prospective buyers are looking at alternative spaces like garden rooms hence their increasing popularity in UK homes.

With skyrocketing house prices, sellers are rushing to the market to cash in on their homes.

However, with people desperate to sell, the housing market has become saturated, brimming with competition. Zoopla’s house price index shows a staggering 60% housing increase, buyers have more leverage to negotiate.

Consider alternatives to moving, like home improvement! By adding a luxury garden room, you can generate greater interest while fetching a higher price or even fall in love with your house all over again.

4 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULDN’T SELL YOUR HOME & INSTALL A GARDEN ROOM INSTEAD

UNCERTAIN HOUSING MARKET –

House prices keep rising, making it risky to sell at the wrong time. Holding onto your home can help you avoid uncertainty and potentially benefit from future market improvements.

COSTLY FEES –

Legal and surveyor fees can quickly add up, eating into your budget for home improvements. Moving costs are also significant, including packing materials, petrol, and potentially hiring a moving company.

TIME CONSUMING –

Selling a home and finding a buyer can be a lengthy process, with potential delays due to market conditions and negotiation phases. Instead of waiting for months, consider installing a luxury garden room in as little as 3-5 days to create the space your house needs.

STRESSFUL –Staying in your current home offers the benefits of comfort, established relationships, and cherished memories. Instead of the hassle of moving, consider making home improvements to reignite your love for your home.

GARDEN ROOMS: THE ULTIMATE HOME IMPROVEMENT SOLUTION

Investing in a garden room is a cost-effective alternative to moving homes. It eliminates costly fees like stamp duty, legal, and removal costs while increasing property value.

This one-time purchase instantly transforms your outdoor space and adds value to your estate.

A garden room provides the extra space you need without relocation hassle. Whether it’s a home office, gym, studio, or quiet retreat, it fulfils your specific requirements. This is especially useful if you need to grow your current space but want to stay in your home or neighbourhood.

A garden room enhances your quality of life by offering a dedicated space for hobbies and interests. It’s an excellent solution for space constraints caused by a growing family or remote work. Embrace home improvements like garden rooms to solve your space predicament.

CARIBBEAN BLINDS INSTALLS 8-CLUSTER PREMIUM PERGOLA TO COMPLEMENT RENOWNED LONDON MEMBERS’ CLUB

Luxury external shading manufacturer Caribbean Blinds saw the demand for its range of high-quality awnings, external blinds and pergolas rise by 161% during the pandemic as commercial establishments reconsidered the use and functionality of their outdoor spaces. For many, this is still a priority today.

In June 2022, Caribbean Blinds installed 8 of its original louvered roof pergola canopies – the Outdoor Living Pod™ – at a collaborative members’ club in Covent Garden, London.

The client

Having installed the Outdoor Living Pod™ at their Mayfair location in 2018, The Conduit wanted to

replicate this design at their new club – on a much larger scale. The flexible shade and shelter provided by the Pod would result in the use of the terrace all year round.

The brief

The client wished to cover two thirds of the 300sq/m roof terrace with pergolas, leaving the remaining third completely open. The ‘Prestige’

model of the Outdoor Living Pod™ was chosen due to its rotating louvered roof that fully retracts and is completely watertight when closed.

The finished result

The perimeter edges of all 8 Pods were equipped with screens to offer protection from the elements, whilst additional ‘doorways’ between modules would allow for different areas to be zoned off. Each module was installed with infra-red heating and festoon lighting to create a cosy and pleasant environment.

Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director at Caribbean Blinds, explained: “We worked closely with the architect,

designer, contractor and end client at every stage of this project. Manufacture from order sign-off was 12 weeks, with installation taking just 2 weeks for our team to complete.”

Anthony Pollak, Facilities Director at The Conduit, added: “The Pods have enabled us to use our terrace all year round. By opening them up in the summer, and keeping the roof closed, sides down and heaters on in the winter, it gives us some much needed outside space. From the initial design meeting to installation, the Caribbean Blinds team made the whole experience very smooth and straightforward.”

The Outdoor Living Pod™ explained…

Designed for those who want to live life outdoors, the rotating louvered roof offers an openair alfresco feel when left fully open, and ensures a completely water, wind and snow-tight roof when closed. Optional windproof screens, ambient LED lighting and infra-red heaters provide a cosy and pleasant environment all year round. Constructed from corrosionresistant, powder coated aluminium, the low-maintenance Pod™ adapts to any outdoor lounging or dining space.

EMBRACE THE YEAR-ROUND CHARM: FIRE PITS, BBQS, AND PIZZA OVENS

Fire pits, BBQs, and pizza ovens have an irresistible allure, transforming outdoor spaces into captivating havens. Crafted with exquisite attention to detail, these versatile installations come in attractive finishes that seamlessly blend with any garden design. They turn your backyard into an inviting sanctuary, a place where you can seek solace and respite.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these outdoor amenities hold the promise of fostering year-round social connections. Picture gatherings of family and friends, enveloped by the mesmerizing flames of a fire pit on cool autumn evenings. Imagine the savoury aroma of sizzling steaks on a BBQ, enticing conversations and laughter during lively summer barbecues. Envision the joyous atmosphere created by a pizza oven, where everyone eagerly participates in crafting their own culinary masterpieces.

But their charm extends beyond seasonal limitations. These outdoor installations prove their worth,

transcending the boundaries of traditional use. They shine during the warmer months but are equally captivating during the colder ones. Imagine the intimate winter nights, huddled around a crackling fire pit, sipping hot cocoa while relishing the company of loved ones. Embrace the enchantment of grilling in the brisk air, as the warmth of the BBQ envelops you, reminding you of the pleasures of the outdoor world. And why not indulge in the rustic flavours of wood-fired pizzas even on a crisp autumn afternoon?

Furthermore, these installations possess the transformative power to create distinct areas within your garden. By strategically placing a fire pit, BBQ, or pizza oven, you can define spaces for family and friends to congregate. With carefully selected seating arrangements, ambient lighting, and complementary landscaping, your garden becomes an extension of your living space—an oasis that reflects your personal taste and offers endless possibilities for relaxation and entertainment.

For a seamless experience, consider purchasing fire pits, pizza ovens, and BBQs from a trusted outdoor living specialist such as Babilonia. They offer high-quality products and a wide range of options to suit any garden space. With their expertise, you can confidently navigate the many choices available.

Contact Babilonia at 01565 750666 or email sales@aquacut.co.uk to discuss your project. Alternatively, visit www.babilonia.co.uk to explore their full range of outdoor living products. Elevate your outdoor space with these captivating amenities and create an inviting haven for unforgettable moments with your loved ones.

NEW CAPPED DECKING SOLUTION

Ecodek, the leading UK-based manufacturer of sustainable Wood Polymer Composite (WPC) decking, is expanding its deck board range with the unveiling of Ecodek Evolution.

Ecodek Evolution is a capped decking that utilises brand new EcoTechTM technology. This outer layer covers the board to provide a highly textured finish that imitates the grain of real wood, whilst also offering enhanced protection against spills, stains and fading.

Underneath, Ecodek Evolution has a solid construction making it extremely strong, durable, and hard wearing - backed by a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty.

The new range comes in five stylish colours, from traditional light and dark brown to the more contemporary black, light grey and dark grey. There are two standard lengths, 3.6m and 4.8m, and custom lengths of between 1.5m and 6m can be manufactured to order in Ecodek’s factory.

Fixing is via hidden clip system, which means there are no visible

fixings once the boards are laid, resulting in a seamless finish.

As with all Ecodek decking solutions, Ecodek Evolution boards are rot, split and slip resistant, making them safe underfoot in all weathers.

Their solid construction makes them suitable for both commercial and residential settings, especially when installed with Ecodek’s own extruded composite subframe.

Evolution boards are constructed from 90 percent recycled and sustainably sourced materials and manufactured by Ecodek in the UK. They are also fully recyclable.

“Ecodek is proud to be a British manufacturer,” explains Phil Marris, Managing Director of Ecodek.

“Not only does it enhance our environmental credentials as our products only have a short way to travel from factory to customer, but it also gives us greater control over product development and quality.

“One such development is Ecodek Evolution. We have used our 20 years of decking expertise and knowledge to develop EcoTechTM, which has resulted in a high quality, luxurious wood composite decking board, that has all the beauty of real timber but without its disadvantages.”

Phil continues, “Being a UK manufacturer also enables us to manage our stock levels more effectively and offer shorter lead times than our competitors because of it. This means we can better support our trade customers as the market and the seasons fluctuate.”

“We’re confident Ecodek Evolution will prove a popular choice with our customers, providing them with a high quality, stylish, low maintenance decking option that is designed to last.”

Ecodek’s

ENHANCING LANDSCAPES WITH SUSTAINABLE LUXURY DECKING

Maintenance can often be a daunting task, especially for large-scale projects. However, with Luxury Decking, routine maintenance becomes a thing of the past. Our easy-to-clean and maintain non-slip composite decking boards provide a simple solution for busy environments. By incorporating our decking into your designs, landscapers can create public spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and low-maintenance.

When it comes to landscape design, every detail matters. Luxury Decking offers a wide range of decking options, ensuring that specifiers can find the perfect fit for their projects.

In today’s fast-paced world, where the importance of sustainability and environmental consciousness is paramount, landscape design and management play a crucial role in creating spaces that harmonise with nature. At Luxury Decking, we believe in combining the beauty of modern design with eco-friendly materials to enhance the urban environment.

Our eco-friendly composite decking boards are at the forefront of the decking industry. Made from 90% recycled materials, they significantly reduce the demand for new timber, helping to preserve our natural resources. What’s more, when the time comes for their replacement, these boards can be recycled once again, minimising their environmental impact. By choosing Luxury Decking, specifiers can make a positive difference and contribute to a greener future.

Quality and durability are our cornerstones. We are so confident in the longevity of our composite

decking that we offer a full 25year warranty on all our product ranges as standard. Our boards are designed to withstand the test of time, ensuring that the investment made in landscape design is a lasting one. By utilising Luxury Decking, specifiers can create outdoor spaces that retain their charm and functionality year after year.

Whether it’s a contemporary urban setting or a serene garden retreat, our decking solutions can seamlessly integrate with any design vision.

As customers continue to seek innovative and sustainable solutions, Luxury Decking stands at the forefront of the industry, committed to delivering exceptional quality, environmental responsibility, and enduring beauty. Our eco-friendly composite boards provide the ideal foundation for creating landscapes that blend seamlessly with the natural environment.

To explore the possibilities of true luxury decking we invite you to visit our website at www.luxurydecking.co.uk.

For personalised assistance and expert guidance call our team on 0330 236 9989, and let us help you bring your vision to life with Luxury Decking.

MAKE THE MOST OF WOOD TO HELP THE WORLD’S CLIMATE

Back in 2020, the global climate change conference COP 26, cited construction activity as a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. It also highlighted that using more sustainable materials, like wood, could reduce emissions significantly. Forward to 2023 and the environmental performance of construction products is still in the spotlight. Now there are smarter tools available to landscapers, architects and manufacturers which measure the environmental footprint of products – not only carbon usage but life cycle assessment too.

Responsible Industries

By using such tools, Timber Development UK (TDUK) – the Wood Protection Association’s (WPA) affiliated trade partner – in collaboration with Energise, have assessed the carbon footprint of the UK timber industry. As published in their Net Zero Roadmap (January 2023), the emissions of timber related industries in the UK (excluding paper, cardboard, pulp, and imported biomass for the energy industry) are responsible for just 0.35% of UK emissions. This is very low compared to other manufacturing industries such

as UK steel production, which is responsible for 2.7% of UK emissions, and concrete – 1.5% of UK emissions1. The Roadmap presents a Net Zero emissions pathway for the Timber Industry to achieve by 2050, alongside a set of highlevel policy recommendations and sector action plans to deliver the reductions. It’s fair to say, even though the percentage of timberrelated emissions is comparably low, the timber industry is still working hard to achieve better outcomes for the planet.

Accoya modified wood from Accsys was used on The Rising Path project, Botanic Gardens, Cambridge. Architect – Chadwick Dryer Clarke. Image courtesy of Richard Chivers, Smith & Wallwork.

As the WPA said three years ago, the environmental benefits of using wood are compelling and align with the concept of a circular economy. By any measure of sustainability, wood scores highly; managed properly, trees provide a renewable material that absorbs and stores (sequesters) carbon. At the end of its life wood can be reused in a cascading process of uses, recycling or recovery of energy. The same cannot currently be said for many other construction materials, including the increasingly popular Wood Plastic Composite (wpc) decking, cladding and fencing products. Although some are recycling waste plastics in their product formulations, this plastic cannot be recycled further and only a handful of manufacturers are offering to take it back once the consumer no longer wants it. It is an issue which may become more apparent in the next 10 years or so.

Enhancing Durability

Using more wood is great – however it’s not as simple as it may seem. The main softwood species used for building and landscaping applications include Pine and Spruce. They are fast growing and so used more frequently because of availability and furthermore, affordability. However, softwoods are generally not as durable as slow growing more expensive hardwoods. The good news is that the durability of softwood products can be enhanced using preservative treatments or wood modification processes to protect against fungal decay and insects during its service life. This in turn, reduces pressure on the more naturally durable, scarcer and higher value species. Pre-treatment allows the use of the more perishable (sapwood) and nondurable parts of a tree where they might otherwise be discarded or have a short service life. This makes

the most of the timber resource and contributes to waste minimisation.

Developing Technologies

The additional energy input of pre-treated wood production is comparatively low too – there is an increasing amount of research driven evidence to support this. But what about the ‘chemical’ aspect of treatment? The treatment industry is highly regulated and continues to develop products and processes which are better targeted towards the organisms we wish to control and which have less impact on the wider environment. This trend will continue. By assessing the benefits gained, then the justification for timber treatments can be appreciated.

Fit for purpose

Like any other materials, treated wood must be correctly specified and installed to ensure its performance meets service expectations. It’s a mistake to assume that all pressure treated wood is the same. Whilst one piece of treated wood may look like any other, the level of preservative protection could be very different. British Standards require that the treatment process is tailored to the end use. Wood for outdoor applications needs higher levels of protection than wood products used indoors. Nowhere is the fitness for purpose of treated wood more important than for landscaping timber which is in direct contact with the ground or providing exterior structural support. This falls into the ‘Use Class 4’ treatment standard. So when specifying or buying such treated landscaping timbers, first and foremost, make sure the supplier knows the timber is for a Use Class 4 application; secondly make sure the wood is treated by a process certificated under an independent quality scheme such as WPA Benchmark; and finally, remember that high performance materials do cost more.

Learn more about timber treatments and the work of the WPA here: www.thewpa.org.uk

Industrial timber preservative treatment plant at James Jones.

ENSURE THE LIFE OF YOUR DECK WITH TREX® PROTECT™

Today’s high-performance composite deck boards, like those from Trex®, are warrantied to last for 25 years or longer. But what about the substructure underneath? If the posts and beams that support the deck are made of wood, they are likely to deteriorate long before the decking warranty elapses. In fact, builders have reported that wooden deck foundations can show signs of splitting or decay after just eight years.

Trex® Protect™ Joist and Beam Tape offers a simple and cost-effective solution. Designed specifically for use with decking substructures, and available in a variety of sizes for use on joists, beams, rims and ledger boards,

this self-adhesive butyl tape shields wooden joinery from moisture that can lead to rot and wood decay. Trex Protect also seals deck fasteners and helps deck screws to hold longer and stronger by preventing moisture penetration and defending against splitting that can result from seasonal freezing and thawing.

Trex Protect is easy to use and works on both horizontal and vertical surfaces. It applies as a ‘cap’ (vs. wrapping) to the tops of joists and beams, allowing wood to breathe. The butyl-based adhesive also won’t bleed, dry out as quickly, or curl up and hold water like many asphalt-based tapes.

Adding to its appeal, Trex Protect is warrantied for a period of 25 years, ensuring that the substructures it protects perform as long as the decking it supports – even in the UK’s unpredictable and often inclement weather.

For more information, visit TrexProtect.com/uk.

BE PREPARED FOR LANDSCAPE 2023!

LANDSCAPE is established as the essential, industry-leading event for discerning garden, landscape designers and contractors that are involved in some of the most prestigious and valuable projects in the UK and beyond. This year, the show welcomes hundreds of companies that will be exhibiting new products and solutions that will most definitely up your business game! With more new exhibitors than ever before, designers know that they can source exciting products that are brand new to the market and also network with other top designers to discuss and discover the latest ideas in the industry.

Alongside the exhibition, LANDSCAPE provides other fantastic features that will keep you busy across the two-day event. The show has secured over 100 incredible speakers that are keen to share their knowledge and expertise. These established professionals

will host 40 free CPD accredited seminars that are tailored to the design industry as well as 24 ‘How to Theatre’s’ that offer informative discussions on important topics across the industry as a whole. The show also provides the opportunity to listen in on interview sessions with key players held at the central bar area in a more informal setting. Each session has been selected to ensure that the subjects covered are interesting and relevant to the industry in 2023. The wellcrafted seminar programme exists to educate, inspire and connect professionals and provide a setting to share ideas and knowledge that will aid future projects. The team at LANDSCAPE carefully curates the two-day show to appeal to all aspects of the industry and works closely with their Partners to make sure the event is essential for designers and contractors alike. A brand-new segment to the 2023 show is the ‘SGD Soirée’ which is an evening designed for SGD members to socialise with the industry and make connections, all in an informal setting.

Join thousands of other professionals as they share, meet, talk, learn, educate, inform, debate, inspire and connect at LANDSCAPE – The Industry Trade Show in Hall 3 at the NEC, Birmingham on the 27th & 28th of September 2023. With something happening at every minute of the show, the show is positively packed with things to do and seminars to choose from. So, mark your calendars and make plans to attend the upcoming show. Entry to the show is free and guarantees you access to the exhibition hall as well as all of the seminars.

For more information or to register to attend the trade show of the year, please visit

www.landscapeshow.co.uk

See you there!

Interior and exterior environments are very different. Timber in ground contact and permanently exposed to wetting, requires extra protection. So, it’s important to know what level of treatment is required. To ensure you get what you pay for, it’s essential to buy from a supplier you can trust.

Independent timber trade body – the Wood Protection Association, operates the WPA Benchmark Scheme. It provides audited verification of a company’s ability to treat wood to current industry Standards.

– If you’re buying treated timber, look for third-party accreditation, such as WPA Benchmark and always ask for product documentation, including proof of treatment.

– If you sell treated timber, ensure it’s fit for purpose by sourcing from a WPA Benchmark Approved Treater.

Ground contact timber? Make sure it’s treated to Use Class 4 levels of protection. Learn about our campaign to promote fit for purpose timber: www.thewpa.org.uk/make-sure-it-s-4

GOLDENVIEW PARK / PMG LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

• Architects: PMG Landscape Architects

• Area: 16200 m²

• Photographs: Take Off

Photography

• Manufacturers: Barkman

Concrete, Forms + Surfaces, KOMPAN, Revamp Panels

• Civil Engineering: McElhanney, H.Y. Engineering

• Electrical Engineering: Gager Electrical Consultants

• Structural Engineering: Horace Engineering

Carvolth Integrated Open Space represents a seamless combination of form and function, whereby stormwater management strategies are integrated with public

recreational and educational programming into a 1.60-hectare linear green space. Carvolth IOS is comprised of three distinct landscape types, with a series of connected stormwater features reflecting the transition from more natural land to a public park to an urban plaza. Throughout these three landscape types, the common thread of water is ever present. Aesthetically, bold forms such as the water droplet reinforce the concept while delineating spaces and providing seating, retaining, and other functions. Visual art has been included with details that again reinforce the water concept, while subtle colors are used to complement the protected views

of Golden Ears Mountain beyond. Many aspects of water have been incorporated into the design, from its visual representation in form, color, and pattern, to the inclusion of water itself in swales, water features, and water play, to more subtle auditory connections where the design allows for the sounds of water to be heard in those instances where it travels beneath pavers.

Functionally, Carvolth IOS acts as a public stormwater amenity, receiving stormwater runoff from the surrounding 6.3-hectare mixeduse site, slowing it down, and cleaning it before it is released into Latimer Creek and the Serpentine River. The visible integration of this stormwater function within a well-programmed public landscape is a significant achievement that elevates the awareness of how landscapes can be designed with stormwater in mind at the neighborhood park scale.

PMG was responsible for leading all aspects of the design of this open space. What started as a purely aesthetic concept featuring water as a central theme sparked inspiration among the stakeholders, who saw its potential as more than just a neighborhood park. Informed by the concept of water, the space was reimagined as a functional stormwater amenity, in park form.

The realization of this successful public space was achieved through a strong collaboration with developers, the Township of Langley, and PMG as the prime consultant, bridging the divide. As landscape architects leading the design, PMG was able to leverage the understanding of developer’s needs with the expectations of the

Township to synthesize sometimes disparate aspirations into a cohesive, integrated public space that is physically and visually accessible and connected to the surrounding neighborhood, and functionally connected to the larger ecosystem.

Carvolth IOS demonstrates exemplary environmental and social awareness by providing critical outdoor public space for neighborhood connection and play, while also providing passive and active educational opportunities

for visitors to see and learn about stormwater management. By revealing stormwater processes, Carvolth IOS allows people to view and celebrate the natural systems. Interpretive signage is included to educate further and inform visitors about water and how it is managed on-site, with the hope that with increased understanding will come increased stewardship of the land and water, healing the disconnect created by decades of hiding critical infrastructure where it is out of sight, out of mind.

WINS BEST SHOW GARDEN

AT RHS MALVERN SPRING FESTIVAL WITH THE PLATIPUS G-WALL®

A living roof and the Platipus G-WALL® soften and blend the building within the landscape and garden while offering creative planting ideas including combining flowers and edibles, contrasting colours and plants for different aspects. Inspired by a local nature reserve the garden taps into its archetypal layers and forms in the planting as an emotive connection to place.

The Hide Garden, created by Award Winning Garden Designer Emily Crowley-Wroe from April House Garden Design, celebrates nature on the doorstep. It represents a private nature retreat transporting the owner to a favourite place by the river.

A garden room leads out onto a 6 x 6m garden. The angled deck area made from composite decking features sculptural carved benches crafted from recycled wood. Facing onto a pebble pond recalling the shallows of the River Eye the seating area invites reflection and connection with nature. Playful stepping boulders create movement and allow closer inspection of plants and their wildlife visitors. Willow hurdles enclose the garden, play on the structure of a nature hide and create natural enclosures and habitats.

G-WALL® is available at the Platipus Direct website or through a growing network of resellers and distributors in the UK. You can also see G-WALL® at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival (4 - 9 July)

STAND HC363

For more information: Freephone: 0808 169 5060

info@platipusdirect.co.uk

www.platipusdirect.co.uk

Photo credit: Three Counties

Photo credit: Cwaynex

Sustainable soils, growing media and turf

British Standard Topsoil

Light in texture with good water holding capacity. Ideal for environmentally conscious landscaping and construction projects.

British Standard Subsoil

A high quality, clean and consistent soil with full traceability. Ideal for general infill, raising levels and creating landscape contours.

Roof Garden Substrate

Intensive and Extensive options ensuring healthy plant establishment for rooftop or containerised planting projects.

Amenity Tree Soil

Load bearing, fertile planting medium. Enables tree root infrastructure to develop under hard urban landscapes.

Bespoke Mixes

Rootzones, low fertility soils, subsoil, sports soils and structural soils. New to the range are two Bio Retention soils, suitable for rain garden applications.

Turfs

A comprehensive range including Wildflower Turf, which provides an instant wildflower meadow.

GREEN-TECH PROVIDES LIGHTWEIGHT SOIL AND LASER-CUT GRILLES FOR AWARD-WINNING ‘VERTICAL FOREST’ HOTEL

Background:

The area around the North and East of Manchester city centre has been undergoing a renaissance over recent years, with exciting development and refurbishment taking place. One such scheme is the stunning new bio-diverse, cubiststyle Leonardo Hotel.

Situated on the corner of Adair Street and Great Ancoats Street, the new 14-storey Leonardo Hotel replaced a weary looking 2-storey office building and adds a welcome link between the busy Piccadilly Station and the East Village Regeneration Zone.

Even before construction began, the scheme won a Society of Architects design award, one of the contributing factors undoubtedly being the 17 stunning Jenga-style tiered planting boxes: the architects, Stephenson Hamilton Risley Studio taking their inspiration from Milan’s Bosco Verticale (vertical forest).

The planters jut out from the main building at various heights, creating a juxtaposition of cantilevers not unlike a half-finished game of Jenga. Indeed, the planters were referred to as ‘Jenga blocks’ in the planning documents. Each planter is filled with shrubs, trees, and ferns,

individually selected to thrive in the micro-climate created by each planting block.

The idea was to make an impact and add some much-needed green infrastructure and bio-diversity to Piccadilly’s East neighbourhood. The building certainly makes a statement and will house 275 luxury hotel rooms along with a ground floor bar, restaurant, gym and wellness suite, and outside seating area.

Green-tech involvement:

Green-tech was invited to landscape architects Re-form’s offices in

Beehive Mills back in 2019, to discuss options for the high-level planters. As a result, the planters were specified with Green-tech’s Greentree lightweight intensive roof soil, as well as a layer of expanded clay granules to bring up the level in the base, rather than using a heavier sub-soil or some other manmade void former. The intensive lightweight roof soil is around 30% lighter than standard topsoil,

and due to the deeper planting of the trees, needs to contain more organic content and hold on to a little more water than the extensive substrate often found on sedum and wildflower green roofs.

A total of 48 cubic metres of lightweight roof soil was used for the 17 Jenga blocks, along with over 4,000 litres of lightweight expanded clay aggregate. This was supplemented on the ground planting with over 400 tonnes of topsoil and subsoil, 2,000 litres of compost and 48 tonnes of pea gravel and decorative silver-grey gravel. The ground level landscaping incorporated a mix of trees in hard and soft, irrigated by a mix of Mona

underground capillary tanks and Mona Relief perforated pipes, and supported by Green-tech strap anchors.

The trees in hard were finished off with permeable resin-bound grilles, and for the trees along the front, custom-made grilles, featuring laser-cut Piccadilly East branding and drainage slots. These grilles are made from heavy-duty steel and finished by being hot-dip galvanised, then acid-etched and powder coated in a classic bronze finish, including the normally silver Piazza irrigation inlet. All the steel used in the production of these decorative grilles is recycled by our foundry in West Yorkshire.

To finish off the landscaping, over 200 square metres of Premium Weed Control matting and Ecomatt was supplied along with 2,000 litres of ornamental wood bark for ground cover.

Alasdair Innes – Green-tech Specification Advisor comments, “it’s fantastic to see striking building design incorporating greeninfrastructure, in a way that makes it really stand out in the local area. It was a pleasure to be asked to get involved supplying the lightweight soil and other ancillary landscaping materials.”

Leonardo Hotel Resi grilles

Image: Gavin Jones

For any further product information or to request a CPD in person or remotely on any of Green-tech’s urban or rural modules please contact sales@green-tech.co.uk or call 01423 332100

Leonardo Hotel Image: Stephenson-Studio.com

STATION FORECOURT

• Architects: PosadMaxwan

• Photographs:Aiste Rakauskaite

• Lead Architect: Rients Dijkstra

PosadMaxwan, an urban design firm from The Hague, The Netherlands, has designed the unique main

entrance to the underground bicycle parking area located beneath the city of Zwolle’s train station square. For the first time ever, the greenery of a station square has been extended to meet up with an underground parking garage,

creating a seamless connection between the indoors and the outdoors. Cyclists are guided down the ramps by a sloping green garden with plants that change with the seasons.

Zwolle is known as a city with an abundance of bicycles and so accessibility for cyclists is a high priority. In 2018, the city decided to redesign the train station square to allow travelers to bike to and from the station as comfortably as possible. From the beginning of the design process of the underground bicycle parking, our goal was to implement natural elements into the entrance areas on the station square. We figured that the most logical way to create a natural feel would be to extend the greenery from the station square to the underground parking garage. This resulted in a unique entrance that has been integrated into the

total design of the square. The spacious and green entrance allows plenty of daylight to reach the underground level and creates an open and safe feeling for cyclists. At a second entrance, a water wall has been created along the stairs that shows how rainwater collected from the square is being stored. The water that cascades down the wall is collected and stored in a circular water system that can be used for the irrigation of the sloping garden during dry periods.

At PosadMaxwan, we always try to look beyond the conventional ways of reorganizing public spaces because we believe that as urban

designers, we can contribute to creating more beautiful and liveable cities. The innovative design in Zwolle allows anyone to experience nature in the city during an ordinary daily routine like parking a bike –even while underground! www.posadmaxwan.nl

COMPLETION OF SECOND HIGH STREET HERITAGE ACTION ZONE FOR MIDLANDS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

Landscape architecture practice Influence Landscape Planning and Design is celebrating the completion of North Walsham Market Place - its second High Street Heritage Action Zone project.

As part of North Walsham High Street Heritage Action Zone, the completed works have been delivered to improve the balance between pedestrians and vehicles in the North Norfolk town and enable it to embrace its heritage and community.

Nottinghamshire-based Influence were the public realm lead consultant, project manager and designer of the scheme, which was funded by North Norfolk District Council, Historic England and the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership.

The three funding organisations made a collective investment of £2.6m in the placemaking scheme, out of the overall North Walsham High Street Heritage Action Zone budget of £3.8m.

Having previously worked on the urban planning and design of Kettering High Street Heritage Action Zone in 2022, North Walsham is the second High Street Heritage Action Zone Influence have worked on.

In North Walsham, the objective of the works was to regenerate the Market Place, situated within the town’s Conservation Area, to rejuvenate the High Street and increase pedestrian footfall and dwell time.

In addition, a wider investment in the North Norfolk town has delivered a new travel hub, new toilet facilities, new benches, the planting of trees and plants and remedial works to some buildings.

Norfolk County Council managed the placemaking works of the project and Tarmac, a sustainable building materials and construction solutions business, carried out the majority of the construction works.

The completion of the North Walsham High Street Heritage Action Zone was marked last week with an event involving representatives from construction partners, Historic England, North Norfolk District Council and New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership.

The event involved a tour of the revamped Market Place and other nearby improvements and included speeches from Tony Calladine, East of England Regional Director for Historic England, North Norfolk District Council Chief Executive Steve Blatch and Chris Starkie CEO of New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, followed by a performance from The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and North Walsham High School.

Chartered practice Influence provides expertise in project management, environmental planning, feasibility and concept development, master planning and urban design, landscape design, visual impact assessment, expert witness and arboriculture.

Shona Hatton, associate director at Influence, said: “High Street Heritage Action Zones are such a key part of the future for our towns - especially post the pandemic – and are often driven by a strong local community interest. Revitalising and regenerating our high streets whilst reinstating the heritage roots is critical to their success, now and in the future.

“North Walsham is a vibrant market town but has been waiting for a long time to bring forward a high street public realm project. The Influence team and I were honoured to have been selected to work on this important project, and are pleased to have supported North Norfolk District Council’s in-house team in its delivery. The opening celebration on 11 May demonstrated how public realm improvements can kick start wider renewal of Conservation Areas and The Shambles terraced gardens are an excellent example of how revealing heritage can transform disregarded spaces into places with unique character.

“Our previous experience in the delivery of High Street Heritage Action Zones gave us specialist knowledge and understanding of the challenges and huge opportunities in our high streets - we have used that experience to great effect to reimagine the physical and social environment of North Walsham- to enable it to be a prosperous town where people want to live, work and relax.”

Tony Calladine, East England Regional Director, Historic England,

said: “It’s wonderful to see this remarkable transformation in the town, from the visually welcoming area of Church Approach to the huge undertaking of the Market Place renovations. Partnership working with North Norfolk District Council and the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership has led to some remarkable outcomes, and this work continues with exciting projects to revitalise The Cedars and the former Barclays Bank. North Walsham’s historic character shines through and offers an attractive experience for residents and visitors alike.”

Chris Starkie, CEO, New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “North Walsham, like other town centres in our region, serves a substantial hinterland, and making it more pedestrian-friendly and accessible will improve trading conditions and strengthen its economic viability. It is crucial that our town and city centres receive the financial support need in order to thrive, especially after the disruption of recent years, and I’m delighted to see first-hand the enhancements delivered by this project.”

Other members of the North Walsham High Street Heritage Action Zone project team include Gleeds as quantity surveyor, HETA as master planners and consultation, Rees Bolter Architects as heritage consultants and BSP Consulting on highways.

Grenadier horizontal slatted timber design suitable for straight sided raised planters

Swithland vertical slatted timber design suitable for straight and curved sided raised planters

Stratum powder coated aluminium design suitable for straight and curved sided raised planters

● Planter Walling only - supplied without a base

● Manufactured to any size and height to suit your requirements

● Supplied in sections or flat packed for assembly on site

● Planter Walling can be supplied to sit on or below the finished paving level

● Integral bench seating is an optional extra

For more information, contact:

Street Design

all use in our everyday life – but we need to ensure it doesn’t end up in our seas. Our products are the long term solution to any landscaping concept. We would love to work with you on your next project – whether its for edging, seating, living walls, recycling bin options or something totally new for our team.

Heathside school in Weybridge in Surrey needed a maintenance free solution to their outdoor area. An area that the pupils could utilise all year round irreleveant of the weather. The Urban sets with their cool shape and clear lines were perfect for the modern surroundings. Providing outdoor furniture, planters and bins using recycled waste plastic ticked all the boxes; with no maintenance, no splinters, non absorbing so no rotting – and the environmentally responsible alternative! ‘An extremely high quality and competatively priced solution to all outdoor areas’

01269 826740 | sales@slpw.co.uk

www.slpw.co.uk

All our products are manufactured from recycled waste plastic

RHS WISLEY CALLS ON OTTERBINE FOR SUSTAINABLE RAINWATER SOLUTION

RHS Garden Wisley has chosen Otterbine to provide its flagship garden with sustainable irrigation.

Otterbine’s 25HP Polaris Giant Fountain was installed at RHS Garden Wisley in Woking as part of the Royal Horticultural Society’s project to create a new rainwater capture lake, providing great quality irrigation to one of the largest plant collections in the world.

In today’s climate, water can be a scarcity and harvesting rainwater supports the conservation of this vital resource. The water has to be good enough quality to use though which is where Otterbine’s 25HP Giant Polaris fountain steps in.

Matthew Pottage, curator of RHS Garden Wisley, explains: “The Giant fountain is installed in our new lake which is connected to our garden irrigation system. The lake collects winter rainwater for summer irrigation and the Otterbine aerating fountain makes the water good enough to use.”

Otterbine’s fountains have the highest oxygen transfer rates in the industry and the Polaris is the brand’s largest floating fountain. The geyser-like spray of the Polaris throws water droplets into the air where they attach to oxygen molecules that can then be absorbed into the lakewater.

Matthew, who oversaw the aesthetic of the new landscape and horticulture around the lake, explains there were additional reasons for choosing the Otterbine Giant Fountain: “The Wisley is one of the UK’s most visited and best-loved gardens, attracting around a million visitors each year and we wanted to use the opportunity to create a new atmosphere and beautiful place for visitors to enjoy and relax at Wisley.

“The lake is designed in an ornamental fashion and the fountain’s visual beauty and the fact that it muffles noise disruption from a nearby road helps bring a sense of theatre and peace to the space,” says Matthew.

Another benefit of the Otterbine Polaris Giant fountain is its unique launching system that eliminates the need for cranes during installation in most applications, despite its size. Miles Water Engineering was responsible for the build of the lake and the subsequent fitting of the fountain. “The whole thing was easy and efficient. We are very grateful for that,” Matthew comments.

Installing the new rainwater capture lake is not the only change to the grounds that RHS Wisley is undertaking. Matthew says: “We are planning a massive new landscape of grasses and perennials with Piet Oudolf, a world-renowned planting designer.”

To find out more about how the Otterbine range of aerators and fountains can help your lakes and ponds, contact Reesink on 01480 226800, email info@reesinkturfcare. co.uk or visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

Stunning and dramatic water features for lasting impressions.

Take your landscapes to new heights with giant fountains from Otterbine. Shallow operating depths combined with cleverly engineered features means these aerating fountains are easy to handle while still striking to see. If you’re looking for a water feature that makes a statement without any of the drama, look to Otterbine.

reesinkturfcare.co.uk

Effective water solutions for all landscapes Irrigation . Pumps . Water Aeration and More

Works with Fountain Glo lights

MANAGING ALGAE

No matter whether you’re looking after a large lake or a small urban water feature, the last thing you want is algae. With OASE you can plan ahead to prevent algae outbreaks and also manage it should the worst happen.

The first step in algae prevention is stopping phosphates from entering the water. When water runs into larger ponds and lakes it brings with it dissolved phosphates from the soil as well as fertilisers and agricultural treatments. If possible, construct a physical barrier to prevent this from entering the water. Self-contained features don’t suffer from this runoff, but the water that is used in them can still contain phosphates and should be treated accordingly.

If phosphates can’t be prevented from entering the water, removing them quickly and effectively is key. By reducing the phosphate levels you stand a good chance of preventing algae. OASE’s Phosless Direct quickly removes Phosphate from the water to below the 0.035 mg/l limit required for algae to grow. For the largest lakes we have a range of Professional treatments including Sedox and Sedox Speed.

As a last resort OASE can help you remove the algae. For water features we have AlgoFountain. Designed for features without fish, this treatment is safe for wildlife who might visit the feature. If fish are present in ponds there are several treatments available including AlgoUniversal

and AlgoDirect. These remove floating, brown and thread algae. For the largest lakes, OASE offers Algolon and AlgoShield which fight algae in a sustainable and effective way.

Whilst string or brown algae in a lake is unsightly, an outbreak of bluegreen algae can be a serious problem. Despite their name, blue-green algae are bacteria rather than plants. More precisely, they are cyanobacteria. Not only does blue-green algae make lakes look unattractive, but the cyanobacteria also produce strong nerve toxins which are harmful to humans and can be lethal to animals.

The best treatment for this dangerous algae is OASE’s CyanoClear. This not only destroys the cell structure of the bluegreen algae by oxidation, but unlike conventional methods, also neutralises the dangerous toxins produced by cyanobacteria. The water quality improves immediately with this treatment and the development of algae is stopped. CyanoClear breaks down without leaving any residue; the final products of the chemical process are water and oxygen.

Want to learn more? Speak to OASE today about managing algae –enquiries@oase.com, 01256 896886

For the largest bodies of water, OASE recommends the AirFlo. Available in 2 sizes this powerful aerator can turnover up to 295,000 litres per hour and is suitable for lakes with a surface area up to 15,000m2.

For smaller lakes, the AquaAir Eco is suitable for lakes with a surface area up to 250m2

For smaller ponds and pools OASE produce a the AquaOxy range of air pumps. These pumps have flow rates between 250 – 7,500 litres per hour and are suitable for ponds up to 75m3 .

Whatever size your lake or pond, speak to OASE today to get more information about aeration.

AquaOxy

You probably already know this, but aeration is key to keeping water healthy in warm weather

OASE offers a range of products to help keep your water feature looking great

AquaAir Eco AirFlo kW V

BODPAVE PROVIDES THE IDEAL STABILISING SOLUTION FOR ACCESS ROADS AND PARKING

About the project: Barratt Homes Northeast acquired a parcel of derelict land opposite the North Shore Academy on the outskirts of Stockton-on-Tees. The land is of particular historical interest, being the site of the wagon works for the world’s first ever passenger railway line, from

Stockton to Darlington. The works were later used during World War 2 for the manufacture of de Havilland Mosquito bombers.

The development comprised 300 new homes, with a combined direct and indirect investment of £160 million. As with most housing

developments nowadays, care was taken to include sufficient green space area for residents to enjoy. Along with play areas, part of this included a large swale at the front of the development bordering North Road, to help cope with excess water runoff or flooding during heavy rain events.

Green-tech’s involvement: Several areas around the main swale and service areas, although grassed, needed additional ground stabilisation to avoid the surface becoming rutted or worn. Greentech has been working with Northeast builders’ merchants, James Burrell Ltd for 17 years, and they came to Green-tech to order 300 square metres of BODPAVE 85, to stabilise the grass top surface.

BODPAVE is an interlocking, porous, cellular plastic paving grid system used as an effective ground reinforcement solution, that can be backfilled with either gravel, hardcore or a soil/grass mix. The design of the units resists lateral movement yet allows for expansion and contraction.

It is an ideal base for sown grass, as the units both stabilise the ground and protect the roots, allowing the grass to grow through the cells and rendering the units practically invisible over time, especially if the green colourway is used. It is ideally suited for:

• Car/Coach parking

• Overspill grass car parks

Emergency Service (Fire access routes)

• Walkways and access routes

Golf buggy paths

• Driveways or on-grass parking

• Grass aircraft taxiways and helipads

BODPAVE is made here in the UK from UV stabilised. 100% recycled waste plastic. Completely non-toxic, once backfilled the units can stand up to 400 tonnes/m2, transferring the load laterally across the surrounding units. With each paver having 18 ground spikes, BODPAVE can be used on slopes up to 12%/7°.

As well as BODPAVE 85, we also offer the slightly shallower, new improved BODPAVE 40, available in green or black, but with a load bearing capacity of 250 tonnes/m2. This provides a stable base car parks and it can be supplied with white markers for parking spaces.

The swale area was finished off with tree planting to soften the boundaries around the perimeter, and for which Green-tech supplied the necessary stakes and rubber ties and blocks.

Alasdair Innes – Green-tech Specification Advisor comments, “Although a fairly straightforward project, it is always nice to see the landscaping around new developments settling in. As time goes on, the BODPAVE will become less noticeable as the grass grows and covers the units.

For any further product information or to request a CPD in person or remotely on any of our urban or rural modules please contact Alasdair Innes at alasdairi@green-tech.co.uk or telephone 01423 332177.

ASPEN DELIVERS A DECADE OF CLEAN AND CONVENIENT POWER FOR THE ARBORIST LTD

“One thing that became apparent very early on was the reduction in problems we were having with carburettors. And with Aspen being pre-mixed, you eliminate the variability of having to mix in 2-stroke oil so you get guaranteed consistency in every can.”

Tony explains that Aspen is used in all their 2-stroke engine equipment, primarily chainsaws – some of which, at the larger end of the scale, are used fairly infrequently. “Our 088 chainsaw for example might only come out once a month, and it doesn’t seem to matter how long it’s been sitting in storage, it’ll always start first time with Aspen.”

More than a decade since he first started using Aspen Alkylate fuel in his tree surgery business, The Arborist Ltd, Owner Tony Gascoyne says he’s never looked back. Having originally switched for the health & safety benefits for him and his team of operatives, he notes the reduction in mechanical failures and simplicity of bulk delivery and invoicing has brought a new efficiency and convenience to his operation.

Tony founded the Mansfield-based business 23 years ago after a period spent working in Stockholm, with the majority of his day-to-day workload made up of domestic tree and hedge maintenance.

“Everyone in this industry knows the unpleasantries of working with 2-stroke fuel - the haze, the smell and the overarching health concerns of breathing in those hazardous

emissions everyday” he explains. “Despite it being a Swedish brand, I didn’t actually come across Aspen during my time in Sweden, but instead got into conversation with them at a trade show roughly 10 years ago.”

“It was really the health benefits for the operator that appealed to me, but based on the other claimed USP’s such as reduced engine component failure and the extended shelf life I gave it a go and it has really delivered on every front.” Being free from ethanol and most of the other hazardous hydrocarbons traditionally found in unleaded petrol from the pump, Aspen Alkylate fuel burns cleaner, reducing the negative impact on the operator, machinery and surrounding environment.

Further labour savings are also found with the safe and simple bulk delivery of Aspen to site. “We get one delivery and one bill a year which keeps everything simple and means we’re not repeatedly making trips to the forecourt. The fireproof Transbank storage container holds 60 five litre cans so we pop one in the truck, and a spare, and off you go.” He concludes, “When you start to add up the savings from fewer servicing bills combined with the convenience angle, it starts to stack up in a commercial sense as well as a safety one.”

THE TRANSFORMATIVE POTENTIAL OF A MEADOWS’ EXPERTISE COLLABORATION

They are not only designed for improved environmental resilience, but to be especially attractive and valuable for pollinators and people.

winters of Northern England, they also thrive across Scotland and as far north as Finland. Pictorial Meadows™ also offer a tailormade service, where a seed or turf mix can be created and adapted for a specific project.

Pictorial Meadows™ were developed originally in partnership with The University of Sheffield and The Green Estate Community Interest Company, as a high value yet low maintenance alternative to mown grass and ornamental floral borders, both of which are resource heavy.

Pictorial Meadows™ seeds and turf mixes comprise a diversity of over 100 varieties and 100% flowers, which provides considerable climate resilience. The plants originate from a wide geographical area and whilst many are UK natives, the inclusion of wildflowers from diverse climatic conditions extends meadow resilience to increasingly extreme weather. We have seen our meadows thrive without irrigation in increasingly hot and dry summers. Having been tested in cooler damper

A continuing relationship with the University’s Landscape department results in the integration of former students into the growing Green Estate team. This collaboration has enabled hybrid schemes such as the ‘Stitch Planting’ concept showcased as part of the Olympic Park design, and Sheffield’s ‘Grey to Green’ planted urban meadows, to be used commercially. Our meadows consultancy service will ensure that your project receives the best solution and is successfully delivered, as well as the long-term management of the meadows. So, if you require assistance with planning a meadow or looking for innovative approaches to increasing biodiversity, our team of meadow specialists can assist with solutions for your project.

Call 0114 267 7635 (8am – 4pm) or email: info@pictorialmeadows.co.uk

Visit: www.pictorialmeadows.co.uk

Sundance annual mixOlympic Park, London

Grey to Green scheme –Castlegate, Sheffield

BIOSCAPES® DELIVERS BIODIVERSITY BOOST TO RHS GARDEN HARLOW CARR

As the UK’s leading gardening charity, the Royal Horticultural Society (the RHS) promotes excellence in horticulture, to “enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place,” a sentiment echoed by the team at BioScapes.

Since it was established in 2021, BioScapes, part of the Rolawn® group, has been driven by a desire to help reverse the issue of biodiversity loss, with its innovative range of specialist wildlife planters. Having deliberately designed the collection of self-contained units to contain multiple integrated habitats, BioScapes products support a wide range of UK flora and fauna, including much-loved species on the decline in the UK, such as hedgehogs, butterflies and bees.

In an exciting new development for the BioScapes team, two units have recently been installed at RHS Garden Harlow Carr, in North Yorkshire, to help boost biodiversity.

The RHS chose a WildPod Mini® and a NatureArk® for the Harrogate site.

Terry Smithson, Biodiversity Manager at BioScapes, commented, “The RHS is an inspiration to gardeners, so we are obviously delighted to be able to work with them at Harlow Carr. When we began designing the planters, we conducted several trials so we know these units can quickly enhance the biodiversity of an area and we’re excited to see exactly what they will attract at RHS Harlow Carr.”

Developed as a collaboration between ecologists and horticulture specialists, to have maximum impact and to quickly boost biodiversity in even the most inhospitable places, the four planters in the range accommodate differing site needs to provide a net gain in biodiversity.

The one-of-a-kind planters, range from WildPod Mini® and WildPod®, suited to a small garden or balcony, through to NatureArk, ideal for

medium size spaces such as schools, and BioCube®, which has been designed for a more commercial setting. Many of the units have already been installed in locations around the UK from new homes to shopping centers.

Fiona Slight, Garden Manager at RHS Garden Harlow Carr said of the collaboration with BioScapes, “At RHS Harlow Carr we’re consistently making improvements throughout the gardens to promote biodiversity and we are always seeking new ways to help people enhance their own gardens, so we are excited to be working with BioScapes to help us on this journey.”

Time will tell what variety of wildlife will be attracted to the two recently installed BioScapes planters, but the units are already generating a lot of interest from visitors. www.bioscapes.co.uk

Tested. Trusted.

Safeguard infrastructure with the scientically-tested, proven permeable root barrier.

CuTex is a permeable geocomposite root barrier system, consisting of a specially formulated copper sheet encapsulated between two high-performance geotextiles. Developed and manufactured by GEOfabrics, a leading UK geosynthetics manufacturer, and tested by the University of Leeds.

n Permeable – maintains natural hydrology

n Safe & easy to install

n Enables biodiverse solutions

n Compatible with SUDs strategy

n Independently & scientifically assessed against numerous species

Find out how you can safeguard infrastructure from tree root or invasive plant damage, whilst maintaining natural hydrology – contact our team on 0113 202 5678 or visit www.geofabrics.com

UK Design & Manufacture

Copper Composite Root Barrier

THE UK’S LEADING SUPPLIER OF HEDGING PLANTS

No quibble, 12-month Plant Guarantee

The Hedges Direct 12 month guarantee is a 100% promise that you can buy our plants with complete confidence – if any fail within the first 12 months after delivery, we will replace them.

Friendly Expert Advice

We know our customers like to hear our buying and planting advice –that’s why our knowledgeable and passionate team are here to chat online or on the phone, 7 days a week.

At Hedges Direct, we make hedging easy for everyone. With nearly 20 years horticulture experience, we take care of everything to make buying, planting and growing hedges hassle-free.

We have plants for every project - from popular evergreen hedge plants to UK grown native varieties, all available in a range of heights and root types.

We offer a huge range of hedging plants throughout the year, from seasonal bare root and root balls, through to pots, screens and troughs which are available all year round.

You can also choose from our wide selection of shrubs, topiary, pleached trees and fruit trees to complete your planting projects.

The Trusted Hedging Specialist

We are proud to have been awarded the 5* Platinum Status from Feefo, with over 16,000 5* customer reviews.

“I have had several orders from HedgesDirect.TheCustomer Serviceteamarereallyhelpful. Ihavehadsomeitemsreplaced andnothingistoomuchtrouble. Veryhappywithserviceandallroundqualityofgoods.”

Feefo review, November 2022

Delivered with care

We have been delivering plants since 2005, so we know how to grow, pack and transport them to you in tip-top condition.

Bespoke Sourcing Service

If we don’t currently sell what you’re looking for, we’ll find it. We can source plants from our extensive network of growers from across the UK and Europe.

Whatever your garden needs – we are the go-to place for hedges.

BOND IT PAVES THE WAY WITH GEO-FIX®

Bond It is ensuring landscaping and urban design professionals across the UK and Ireland can continue to benefit from a revolutionary jointing compound which makes it quicker and easier to install and maintain paved, flagged, and other similar areas.

The leading UK-based, independent manufacturer of sealants, adhesives and building chemicals has become the new and exclusive distributor of Geo-Fix® for the British Isles.

Available in both an Original and an All-Weather formulation, GeoFix® provides a superior means of pointing pavers, cobbles, flags, slabs, and stone setts.

Unlike other products, which require the addition of water or the mixing of separate components such as sand, cement and water, Geo-Fix® is supplied pre-mixed and ready to use. This saves time, effort, and mess - both in terms of preparation and post-job clean up.

Geo-Fix® is also incredibly quick and easy to install. It is applied by brushing into the joints and can then be finished by compacting with a pointing tool before a completely safe, chemical reaction causes it to cure and harden.

As well as impressive speed and ease of application, Geo-Fix® also offers levels of performance that surpass those of wet mortars and of other dry mortars that use polymeric sand.

As a prime example, the length of time required for it to cure is much shorter and it can reach full loadbearing capacity in hours rather than the more usual days.

In addition, Geo-Fix® provides greater flexibility as to when work can be carried out. GeoFix® Original can be used at temperatures as low as -5ºC whilst Geo-Fix® All Weather can be used in all conditions – including the wet.

As a further benefit, Geo-Fix® All Weather is also perfectly suited for use with porcelain paving.

As porcelain paving is just 20mm thick, it’s essential that any jointing compound can still perform in a joint with a dramatically reduced depth. Geo-Fix® All Weather provides that capability and can be used in joints as shallow as 15mm.

To help customers maximise the opportunities by the growing trend towards porcelain paving, Bond It will be introducing further specialist products imminently. www.bonditgroup.com

GROUNDSFEST VISITOR REGISTRATION OPENS

Visitor registration for GroundsFest 2023 is now officially open at groundsfest.com

Taking place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire on 20 and 21 September, GroundsFest is set to be the annual FREE must-attend event for grounds staff, greenkeepers, landscapers, local authorities, estate managers and contractors.

The two-day event will feature hundreds of brands including some of the biggest names in groundscare. From apprentice to management, GroundsFest will offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the very latest industry trends and innovations, see a wide range of products in action, enhance their education, and participate in handson, Lantra approved training sessions.

Attendees can expect features such as: Outdoor demonstrations – visitors will get to see machinery in action on large outdoor areas. Indoor zones – a variety of exhibitor

stands, catering outlets and seminar theatres.

Retail Area - a wide range of products, tools, clothing, and accessories at a discounted rate. The largest ever seen at a groundscare event. Practical training sessions – Lantra approved hands-on training on a wide range of equipment from qualified instructors. Education programme – educational seminars delivered by top speakers and industry experts.

The Landscaping Zone – an entire hall dedicated to those involved in the planning, design, and construction of outdoor environments in the landscaping sector.

The Play Zone – an outdoor area for all those involved in the selection, purchase, upkeep, and replacement of children’s play provision. Festival – after an action-packed day, unwind and continue networking with live music and delicious street food.

In addition to the limitless opportunities and event features,

Stoneleigh Park has FREE on-site parking and FREE shuttle buses will be available after the festival to take attendees back to their accommodation in Kenilworth, Leamington Spa and Coventry.

There will also be a dedicated area for camping, which should be prebooked in advance prior to arrival. More information on staying in the camping area is available on the GroundsFest website.

Registration is accessible through the GroundsFest website and visitors can simply bring their email confirmation (on a phone or a printed copy to the registration desk) which will be located at the show entrance.

For more information, please visit www.groundsfest.com

You can also follow GroundsFest on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @GroundsFest for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

WISE CONTROLS

We are thrilled to celebrate 20 years of Wise Controls and unveil the all-new Wise Boxes equipped with Wise Direct Technology. Introducing the UK’s leading wirelessly controlled box, this innovation offers an array of enhanced features. Alongside the existing wireless switching capabilities for lighting and controls, the New Wise Boxes now empower users to program and regulate their lighting effortlessly through the Wise Direct app. With this app, you can directly control your Wise Box from your phone, conveniently monitor the status of your lights, set customized time delays and timers, and even configure settings for dusk and dawn. Stay in command of your lighting experience with the New Wise Boxes and enjoy unmatched convenience and control.

www.wisecontrols.com | info@wisecontrols.com

020 8874 2234

LANDSCAPING SOLUTIONS AT YOUR (GREEN) FINGERTIPS

For a more convenient and cost-effective way to stock up on landscaping and gardening supplies, online builders’ merchant Building Superstore has it covered.

As part of the merchant’s extensive range of construction supplies and materials, Building Superstore’s offering includes everything from fencing, decking, and paving, to landscaping textiles, aggregates, and timber, plus a wide variety of power and hand tools. Designed with the professional trade contractor, gardener, and landscaper in mind, Building Superstore also offers a wide range of specialist drainage solutions including channel drainage, guttering, sewage treatment, building drainage, covers and grates.

Building Superstore is part of CMO Group Plc, itself the largest online-only retailer of building materials in the UK. By opening a trade account with Building Superstore, professional contractors can take advantage of flexible online ordering, special offers, discounts, select next day deliveries and tailored technical support.

www.buildingsuperstore.co.uk | 01752 692 770

YOUR DAY AT SAGE 2023

Here’s what you can expect from the most talked about outdoor trade show for the sports and grounds maintenance industry in the UK!

From fascinating talks and demonstrations, to a Learning Hub and chainsaw championship, SAGE 2023 is set to be an unmissable event. Held at Three Counties Showground, Malvern on the 19th and 20th of July 2023, SAGE will feature live outdoor demos of the latest machinery, leading industry exhibitors, expert-led summits, live music, entertainment, food vendors, and a bar.

And now the agenda has been announced, meaning that visitors can plan their perfect day at SAGE. On both days, a schedule of fascinating talks and demonstrations have been planned. At 10am, three leading experts will be sharing their thoughts on the future of chemicals in grounds maintenance, exploring the pros and cons of a zero-chemical future and its viability.

about the importance of washdown systems at 11am.

At midday visitors can meet with the experts who have come together to provide support, assistance and expertise on how your business can get started and progress or progress further on it’s sustainable pathway.

At 1.30pm, market-leaders will be sharing their thoughts on electric machinery – whether it’s the future and what other options are viable and available.

Over at the Green Business Expo, at 10am, Alex Pearson from Midlands Net Zero Hub and Dominic Lavelle, Managing Director at Go Green Experts will be discussing whether going green is viable for a business, delving into the details of equipping a business with strategy and practical knowhow on moving forwards.

Mark

Tomlinson, Head of Environmental & Sustainability Stadia Projects at Bio-Circle Surface Technology

Ltd will be talking

Join an expert-led panel at 11am which will be talking about creating a successful tender bid, after which Fusion for Business will be discussing managing rising energy costs.

Also at the Green Business Expo, at 2pm, meet a panel of innovators

2 EXPO’S 1 EVENT

Creating a hub for sustainable implementation of practices and solutions for all sectors of industry, by accelerating access to pathways to achieve NET ZERO in time.

We

INTRODUCING THE UK’S MOST EXCITING PLAYGROUND…

Jupiter Play & Leisure are delighted to have partnered with renowned holiday destination Butlin’s to design and build SKYPARK, the UK’s most exciting playground! Designed to spark young imaginations and encourage open exploration,

this playful world of colour and light is all about inclusivity and interactivity. There are thrills and surprises at every turn, with six different zones celebrating positive play emotions.

Bespoke Play Features

Children enter Butlins SKYPARK through a bespoke Heart shaped entrance feature to discover six zones that celebrate positive play emotions: Joy, Calm, Excitement, Happiness, Surprise, Curiosity.

At the heart of the playground is the Red Tower of Excitement, standing an incredible 14m tall providing a panoramic sea-view and a thrilling illuminated 10-meter slide activated by sensors.

Our play area will take children on a journey of discovery where children of all abilities can easily access the towers and access height for a unique above-ground perspective. Alongside this a variety of playful experiences: a wheelchair-accessible trampoline and roundabout; basket and sit-up swings for support and sociability; sensory surprises through light, sound and colour; and wide, wheelchair-friendly walkways and ramps provide accessible fun for all. The UK’s longest interactive seesaw lights up the heart line the more you play as a team, a series of swings and climbing equipment which is the heartbeat of the area. By considering the different senses - Proprioception, vestibular, touch, sight and sound, a sensory rich environment has been developed to ensure true inclusion.

Inspiration by day and Illumination by night

With innovation at the core of our business we’re very excited to deliver a truly bespoke space with integrated lighting and sound. A large SONA dance arch provides fun, musical and sensory play for all and the MEMO interactive 360 touchscreen posts provide a variety of fun games based on memory and movement. Several musical pieces compliment the towers; including interactive wind up action lights which play music to reward children for their efforts, xylophones and talk tubes.

But the fun doesn’t stop just because the sun goes down! Children can have after-dark adventures thanks to the illuminated towers and slides – lit by a series of integrated LED lights. We have developed a programmed light display, which changes from warm white to a variety of coloured sequences throughout the day to bring the wow factor to the play experience and ensure the park can stay open until 10pm each night, regardless of the time of year.

Managing Director Michael Hoenigmann, who was integral to the design and specification of SKYPARK, is delighted with the response from the client and guests alike.

“It was so rewarding to be at the opening of the playground after 18 months of hard work and seeing the guests reaction. As a family business it’s been a great pleasure to work with Butlin’s, another family company, to deliver what we both believe to be the UK most exciting playground”.

Butlins SKYPARK has featured heavily in the media since the official opening by celebrity Christine Mcguiness, with a feature in the Times Travel section being a highlight.

Feedback from guests has been overwhelmingly positive, Cheryl

Lauday, 61, was particularly pleased her grandchildren could all play in the same space, despite being in different age groups. “It is very good,” she said. “The kids love it. It is probably the best thing Butlin’s has done.”

ROBINIA FOREST RANGE FROM PLAYSPACES

Playspaces play schemes comply with the most stringent safety standards and all Playspaces manufactured products come with full installation instructions, with each component part simple to identify. From trim trails and towers to climbing frames, swings, slides and more, Playspaces will work with you from initial site visits and design discussions, through manufacturing to installation as well as taking care of your subsequent safety and maintenance inspections and repairs.

Playspaces are excited to announce the launch of their exciting New Robinia Forest Range! Manufactured in Kent, they are employing the extremely strong and durable Robinia wood in their new Forest Play Area designs. As a well-known rot resistant hard wood, Robinia is perfect for outdoor playground equipment and tough enough to withstand anything the British weather throws at it. It is great to work with as it does not require impregnation and can be anchored directly in the ground. This highly sustainable wood’s unique irregular look with its natural curvature blends into the surroundings beautifully, creating original and fun spaces for children to play in nature.

Playspaces design, manufacture, supply and install bespoke outdoor playground equipment, providing individual play equipment pieces or complete turnkey playground builds. Their extensive range of timber playground equipment has products suitable for every age and setting, including safety and all-weather surfacing. Their bespoke designs and robust high-quality installations are suitable for schools, nurseries, parks and commercial outdoor play areas. The New Robinia Forest Range is especially suited to commercial applications for parish councils and play park owners concerned about the higher carbon footprint of metal play equipment. Timber play equipment by its very nature represents a huge source of carbon capture - especially an untreated natural European hardwood like Robinia!

ONE motor. multiple tools. BATTERY POWERED.

The KMA 135 R KombiEngine is perfect for professionals that need to take on different types of jobs, thanks to its 12 interchangeable KombiTools. So whether you‘re trimming grass, clearing leaves, cutting hedges or pruning trees – you’ll be ready for any challenge.

PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE: THE KMA 135 R CORDLESS KOMBIENGINE. WITH HL-KM LONG-REACH HEDGE TRIMMER.

STREAMLINING LANDSCAPING OPERATIONS WITH RE-FLOW FIELD MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

Re-flow, an award-winning field management solution, empowers both operatives and field managers by seamlessly integrating and enhancing oversight over all key operational processes. With its widespread adoption by numerous businesses nationwide, including esteemed regional firms like Tony Benger Landscaping, Taylor Made Landscapes, and Shines Environmental, Re-flow has proven to be a game-changer in streamlining operational processes and facilitating sustainable growth.

In the landscaping industry, rapid business growth often exposes the limitations of manual systems, which are hindered by outdated and siloed processes, unreliable communication and human error. Re-flow, on the other hand, offers a comprehensive suite of digital tools designed to address these challenges by managing all critical operational processes seamlessly and efficiently. The user-friendly desktop

dashboard boasts a multitude of powerful features, including creating detailed job packs, intelligent scheduling that accounts for conflicts such as double bookings, availability, and even advanced elements such as operative fatigue.

The intuitive mobile app enables operatives to conveniently access crucial information. They can view synchronized job details seamlessly, even offline, ensuring uninterrupted productivity. The information accessible through the app encompasses various elements such as PDFs, drawings, GPS locations, and vehicles or equipment assigned to the task through the system’s asset management functionalities.

This information can also be utilised during digital form completion. The platform provides a catalogue of over 40 pre-built forms such as risk assessments, equipment safety checks, and site visit records, or users can create their own using

the powerful form builder, all to regulatory standards.

Re-flow ensures compliance by enforcing completion processes, utilising dropdown fields for standardised responses, and allowing users to capture and attach photos directly within the app. Submitted forms are tagged with a unique digital signature, time, and location information, enhancing auditability and improving health and safety oversight.

Re-flow’s capabilities extend beyond these features, encompassing team communication, live user tracking, reporting, quotes, billing, and invoicing. It also offers seamless integration options through its built-in REST API, allowing larger businesses to enhance the software with custom automation rulesets and integrate it into their ERP systems.

Field management software that puts you in control and your team to work

• Jobs

• Events and Tasks

• Scheduling

• Team Communication

• Asset Management

• Forms

• Automation

• Form Builder

• Live User Tracking

• Offline Working

Trusted by over 180 businesses, Re-flow has enabled landscaping companies nationwide to become more efficient, compliant and profitable.

Instant access to over 40 customisable forms, including:

• Safety Checks

• Risk Assessments

• Near Miss

• Daily Work Records

Build forms to streamline workflows – automatically update records, job progress and send notifications.

It didn’t take us long to decide that Re-flow was the right fit. It complements everything we’re doing. I’ve not needed to buy new paper since we’ve been on Re-flow. Normally we’d have bought five reams every couple of months.

Sandra Wood Office Manager Golden Tree Surgeons

To find out more: call 01392 574002 | www.re-flow.co.uk

WE’RE NOW OFFICIALLY LIVE WITH OUR NEW WEBSITE

Screwshop primarily specialise in screws, fixings and fasteners for the DIY, hardware, building, joinery and furniture manufacturing sectors. It took more than 6 months of dedicated hard work and sincere efforts of our team members to come up with a creative solution that will help everyone buying on our Screwshop site.

Have a look to at www.screwshop.co.uk to see for yourselves -

• Faster than ever

Equipped with enhanced new features

Powered by Easy-to-navigate functionality

More user-friendly

We are dedicated to offering you, our customers, competitive prices from our ever-increasing range of imported products and expertise in more localised sourcing, excellent service and a versatile approach to a wide variety of finished and packaging options. With that, we also invite you to connect with our wonderful family on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to stay up to date and engaged with company announcements. Moreover, if you are into exploring the unknown, be sure to head over to check our blog posts and newly developed website sections.

If you have queries, comments, suggestions for us, or can’t find what you’re looking for, please share with us at Screwshop or call us on 0121 559 8866 – we are here to help.

OUTDOOR DEMOS

See it in action over 2 days

RETAIL AREA

Exclusive discounts for GroundsFest visitors

FREE EDUCATION

LANTRA approved practical sessions

MUSIC FESTIVAL

Live DJs and bands

with:

MADE FOR EVERY SLOPE... ZERO-TURNS FROM CUB CADET

Cub Cadet, the proven innovator of zero-turn technology, has created their strongest line up of zero-turn riders – whether you are a landscape professional looking for a machine that can handle any terrain or a small business owner looking for a machine for your customers large lawn maintenance.

You can book a demo of our machines by finding your nearest dealer at www.cubcadet.co.uk or contact Cub Cadet on 01869 363677.

Once tried. Never forgotten.

Z9 – Top of the range professional zero-turn

The top of the range Z9 183id zeroturn, will fulfil all your commercial requirements.

With extremely wide double wheels, the Z9 has been developed to effortlessly tackle even the steepest slopes up to 25° / 46%.

The ability to control all four wheels with a steering wheel and steerable front wheels, an exclusive offering by Cub Cadet in the commercial sector, minimises the turf being churned up by the wheels or crabbing on banks. The patented Synchro Steer® technology means that even the less experienced operators can benefit from the ease of use and amazing manoeuvrability of this machine.

The Z9 provides greater hillside stability and enhanced traction on uneven terrain as well as mowing in straighter lines.

It powers through the thickest grass in one pass at maximum speeds of up to 12mph meaning you can do the job quicker. The high lift Marbain blades with a blade tip speed up to 18,500 fpm and the 3” total blade overlap will ensure that you always get a tight consistent cut. The frame and axle on the Z9 floats as the machine moves, allowing the multi-reinforced steel deck to follow the shape of the terrain and avoid scalping. The cutting deck can be adjusted at the touch of a button.

The Kawasaki EFI engine provides the consistent power you need to get the job done and maximise your work-day – reducing the downtime which could cost you both time and money. The petrol engine benefits from having reduced fuel usage, while the 2 x 34 litre tanks gives you the ability to operate all day.

Comfort is at the forefront of the machine’s design. Your operators can experience a smooth ride all day long thanks to the exclusive air-ride seat and isolated dampening system on the Z9 – meaning they are working in vibration-controlled comfort, lessening downtime for your business. Angled back adjustments, padded armrest and lumbar support give added protection.

Ideal for commercial users, the Z9 has everything and more that you would expect from a quality professional machine - ultimate performance, comfort and durability that delivers a fast, premium cut time and time again. You’ll also benefit from a warranty of 3 year or up to 1000 hours (whichever comes

first) for commercial and private use.

New XZ8 – Conquer the hills

The new XZ8 series, launched in 2023, features steering wheel control and bridges the gap between professional and consumer zeroturn machines. They are engineered to mow precisely and help prevent turf damage – even on sloping terrain.

The two machines powered by either a Kawasaki or Kohler engine also feature Synchro Steer® technology to retain full control of the front wheels. Steering and drive control are synchronised to help control the speed and rotation direction of each rear wheel, whatever the position of the front wheels. The robust steel frame is designed for durability even on challenging terrain.

The machines will mow an area of up to 13,000 m²h with cutting deck widths of 122cm / 48” and 137cm / 54”.

XZ7 – Designed for every challenge

The Award-winning design of the XZ7 L152i from Cub Cadet redefines the zero-turn mowing experiencewith enhanced strength, re-imagined comfort and a great cut.

The latest steering lever lap bar technology combined with the extremely robust construction of heavy-duty components and high-performance engines makes the machine the ideal professional machines for large lawn maintenance.

The open continuous tubular lightweight steel frame is designed for strength and durability. The hinged/removable floor pan allows quick and easy access to the welded, all round reinforced AeroForce Max™ mowing deck and engine for ease of maintenance.

A powerful Kohler EFI V-Twin dual cylinder engine gives the machine the power to mow up to 15,000 m²h.

With a large cutting width of 60”/152cm, the machine puts owner/ operator comfort at the forefront of its design with a premium high-back seat with armrests and adjustable suspension for fatigue-free working.

The XZ7 L152i is ideal for mowing rolling hills, with its outstanding stability on slopes, and around

obstacles, with its effortless manoeuvrability. Even on the most difficult lawns the spring-mounted suspension on the front wheels ensure a smooth ride with less vibration.

XZ6 – Steering wheel range

The models in the XZ6 range, give you great steering capabilities on challenging terrains. The industryleading SyncroSteer® technology for full control of the front wheels, combined with powerful Cub Cadet and Kawasaki engines makes the XZ6 series the ideal machines for large lawn maintenance if you prefer the ease of a steering wheel.

With 3 cutting widths available from 107cm / 42” through to 127cm / 50” and a maximum mowing area of 11,500 m²h and speed of 7 mph these machines will provide the ideal solution for your large mowing jobs. You’ll be able to mow in comfort for hours due to the high back premium seat and mow slopes up to 20° / 36%.

The award winning continuous lightweight tubular steel frame is designed for strength and durability. A fabricated mowing deck ensures unsurpassed mowing performance.

Our unique zero-turn riders with a traditional steering wheel provide you with amazing manoeuvrability and full control of the front wheels.

At Cub Cadet we trust our XZ6, XZ7 and XZ8 to perform with maximum durability and robustness and offer a warranty of 3 years or up to 500 working hours (whichever comes first) – for commercial or private use as well as offering a dealership service that delivers true advantages to you and your business.

Our large range means that both professionals and business owner alike can find their ideal zero-turn machine; whether they are looking for a serious bit of kit to mow steep slopes or to mow their customers large lawns… Cub Cadet have got you covered this year and every year going forward.

For more information and to book a demo go to www.cubcadet.co.uk or contact Cub Cadet on 01869 363677.

ZERO-TURN

100% GREAT CUT

MAX MANOEUVRABILITY

MAX POWER

MAX COMFORT

100% INTERESTED? BOOK YOUR DEMO NOW