Landscape & Urban Design - Issue 13 2015

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Landscape & Urban Design Designing your outdoor environment

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Fencing & Gates

Landscape Architecture

Biodiversity

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SUDS

Sports & Play

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The UK’s leading publication for key professionals within the Landscaping, Garden Design, Urban Design, Amenity, and Sport & Play Industry.

Contents Issue 13

38 Play & Leisure

04 Grant Associates

58 Zaun Landscape & Urban Design

Designing your outdoor environment

Get in touch

34 Espace Bienvenue

50 Le Grand Stade

Publishing Director Martin Holmes martin@landud.co.uk Sales Director Sarah Croft Tel: 01843 830249 sarah@landud.co.uk

Editor Lorna Davidson Tel: 01843 830249 lorna@landud.co.uk Studio Director Josh Holmes josh@landud.co.uk

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University of sheffield's ambitioUs masterplan gets go-ahead Landscape architects Grant Associates are to develop and deliver phase one of the new public realm for The University of Sheffield, which is set to revolutionise the University’s campus, open it up to the public and link it firmly with the city centre.

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Landscape architects Grant Associates are to develop and deliver phase one of the public realm for The University of Sheffield, which is set to revolutionise the University’s campus, open it up to the public and link it firmly with the city centre.

The ambitious Campus masterplan designed by Grant Associates in collaboration with architects, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, sets out The University of Sheffield's pioneering plans over the next 10-15 years to create a unified, sustainable and green campus.

The aim is to enhance the environment for students, staff, visitors and the wider community, and integrate the University seamlessly with the rest of the city.

Highlights of Grant Associates design include:

New Green Spaces

New green spaces bringing wildlife and nature into the campus include Arts Tower Court, a beautiful landscaped courtyard with water feature, trees, lawn, café and plenty of places to sit, think, chat and relax. This area will link to Weston Park via a garden terrace. University Square, a vibrant green space, will sit at the heart of the campus as a central meeting space, while St George’s Green will be enhanced with trees, meadow and hedgerow planting.

Improvements for pedestrians and cyclists

One of the biggest issues facing pedestrians and cyclists is the need to cross major roads to get around the University. Two new crossings will be added to Western Bank with a further improved crossing on Upper

Hanover Street and increased safety measures at Brook Hill Roundabout. Leavygreave Road will be closed to cars providing shared space for pedestrians and cyclists.

Two new bike hubs will provide more than 500 secure spaces, with shower and changing facilities to support and encourage sustainable travel.

Improvements to key landmarks and new landmarks added

A number of landmarks in and around the University campus will benefit from innovative transformations including the Arts Tower, St George’s Church, Western Bank and Leavygreave Road. There are also longer term proposals for new buildings including a new state-of-theart Science facility and an impressive Social Sciences building bringing together many subject areas under one roof.

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Keith French, director, Grant Associates said:

“From the outset the Sheffield University Masterplan has been underpinned by a landscape-led approach. We’ve set out to transform the public realm – creating a thread of streets, squares, gardens and spaces that will help to link together the east and west campus, and to improve the University experience for students, staff and visitors. It will also help the University become better integrated with the city, and to create a distinctive University Quarter.”

Keith Lilley, Director of Estates and Facilities Management at the University of Sheffield said:

“Developing an estate which allows us to provide worldclass teaching and learning facilities for our students and staff is a major priority. But so too is the desire to be firmly part of our city and to create a safe and welcoming environment which encourages all the people of this great city to see it as their University.

“We’re proud of the city’s heritage and our remarkable history of innovation and determination and we believe that we have an important role to play in contributing to city vibrancy.

“This Masterplan frames our vision by setting out an ambitious approach to improving the quality of the built environment in our part of the city and the spaces which tie the urban architecture together.”

Hugo Marrack, partner, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios said:

“Though one of the original six Red Brick Universities, the University’s urban campus is now characterised by an eclectic range of architectural styles; and so it is especially important that the external realm unifies the campus identity. The Masterplan identifies potential sites for new University buildings to provide for growth over the next 10-15 years. These new buildings have been strategically located to strengthen existing spaces or shape future spaces, such as a new, central University Square.”

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saving the small things which rUn the world Paul Hetherington of Buglife discusses biodiversity, bugs and the benefits of supporting them.

Buglife was founded in 2002 - voted by the Environmental Funders Network poll of their members as ‘the second most impactful organisation per pound spent working in the conservation sector’- are the only organisation in Europe who look out for all invertebrates.

They have achieved a great deal in a short space of time; banning cypremethrin sheep dip after showing that one drop in a water system would wipe out all invertebrate life up to 10 miles downstream; saved a brownfield site from development at Canvey Wick which is now an SSSI and nature reserve; worked overseas on St Helena and in Sri Lanka; helped save the Ladybird spider and Tansy beetle amongst other UK species. This year a campaign is underway to save the ‘Horrid Groundweaver’; a money spider found only on two sites in Plymouth one of which is scheduled for development.

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Pollination Pollination is probably the best understood contribution invertebrates make to our daily lives. It is estimated that free wild pollination services contribute around half a billion pounds per annum to the UK farming industry. Pollination is essential for most fruit crops like strawberries, apples, raspberries, tomatoes and also courgettes, most peas and beans. Our wild pollinators are also essential for reproduction in eight out of 10 of our native wildflowers which would gradually vanish from the landscape without pollination.

Why bugs?

“If we and the rest of the back-boned animals were to disappear overnight, the rest of the world would get on pretty well. But if the invertebrates were to disappear, the world's ecosystems would collapse.” Sir David Attenborough. 73% of the known species on the planet are invertebrates whilst just 0.5% are vertebrates.

So who are these natural pollinators?

The first flowers were beetle pollinated; even today around 100 UK species of beetle carry out pollination, 2,400 species of moth, 24 species of bumblebee, 220 species of solitary bee (with no sting), 60 species of butterfly and 275 species of hoverfly. The cost of replacing pollinators for farmers would come to around £2 billion per annum, based on the labour involved in replicating pollination in regions of China where they have already wiped out pollinators through poisoning the landscape.

Why are our pollinators under threat?

If our pollinators were facing just one threat it would be so much easier to find solutions but the reality is there are a plethora of reasons behind the fact that two thirds of our pollinators are in decline and some rapidly so: 20 years ago, the ‘shrill’ and ‘brown banded’ carder bees were common across the UK but now they are restricted to a few small pockets along the Thames Gateway and parts of Wales. Industrial scale farming has seen much of our countryside become a barren greenscape, plenty of vegetation but little diversity as hedgerows have been ripped out. Since 1945, 93% of all our flower rich meadows have been lost creating a dearth of food sources. Climate change also has a role to play in the decline, as increased weather extremes -especially flooding and wet winters- have strong negative impacts on bee survival. Increasingly our fields are sprayed with herbicides and insecticides which have strong impact upon our pollinators – one of the grant schemes to enhance bee numbers is unfortunately ill thought out – planting field margins with wildflowers sounds great but these areas are then drenched in insecticides from the surrounding fields, creating inviting looking death-traps rather than oases for our pollinators. In our urban landscape, life too is getting harder as so much garden area has been either lost to paving, decking and/or car parking. A recent survey in the Sunday Times claims the average UK garden now has just four different varieties of flower. There is also a drive to develop our brownfield sites for housing over the green belt, and yet many brownfield sites provide some of our richest pollinator habitats being comprised of open mosaic habitat, a mix of different habitats in a concentrated area.

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What we can do collectively?

We can work together to put connectivity back into the landscape by providing the highways our pollinators need to move across the countryside and unlike highways for cars these routes do not need to be continuous, though at least 10% of the route needs completion. This is part of a large scale project called B-lines that Buglife are mapping across the UK. In our urban environment we need to look at planning for biodiversity, incorporating areas of pollinator-rich habitat into our parks, examine the processes for verge cutting, street planting and provision of open space. Adding living roofs and walls to our public buildings not only encourages and supports biodiversity, but also provides numerous other attractive environmental benefits such as:

t

Sustainable drainage: Retention of water in the substrate reduces and slows run off; improves water quality through filtration.

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Improved building performance: Increases the life span of the roof by protecting it from frost, high temperatures, UV and mechanical damage; reduces energy consumption by reducing the need for heating and cooling; sound attenuation.

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Climate change: Vegetation on a roof removes carbon from the atmosphere as part of photosynthesis and releases oxygen; evapotranspiration can reduce the urban heat island effect (caused by the absorption and re-radiation of heat from dense and dark building materials).

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Amenity: Roofs can provide areas for recreation and relaxation; roofs can be aesthetically pleasing.

What we can do as individuals?

Gardening for pollinators is both easy and essential. The first step to good pollinator gardening is to ensure a year round supply of pollen and nectar, sadly this is not about grabbing the first off the shelf packet of wildflower seed and shoving it in the garden as usually this will provide flowers for only a couple of early summer months, it is about careful planning of planting. The good thing is that even with a window box, a couple of patio tubs or hanging baskets, a service station where pollinators can recharge whilst migrating between habitats can be achieved. For a good list of pollinator friendly plants go to: https://www.buglife.org.uk/sites/default/files/Plants%20 for%20bees.pdf.

Having provided fodder for our pollinators the next consideration is shelter. The easiest pollinators to accommodate are solitary bees where all that is needed is a south facing wall or fence on which to hang a bee home. These are simple to construct if you have the time using bamboo and twine. https://www.buglife.org.uk/sites/default/ files/Make%20a%20bee%20hotel.pdf Alternatively you can purchase an array of bug homes from garden centres or on-line, though many are created more to look good than be effective, http://www.greenkey-garden.co.uk/insect-houses/

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have been part designed by Buglife and are worthwhile installing.

Stop using insecticides and herbicides in the garden; left alone nature will soon develop a happy equilibrium. Consider being a little bit untidy in the garden, don’t trim back plants every autumn and don’t clear away the fallen leaves.

Buglife services as a support tool Buglife have now launched Buglife Services a commercial arm that can be contracted in to advise on designing a development, park or any other facility to maximise its value to local bug biodiversity. We can also carry out surveys to find out what is in an area and follow up ones to look at how changes have increased both the numbers and variety of bugs in an area. https://buglife.org.uk/buglife-services So whether you are planning for your balcony or a larger scale development there are a host of benefits for invertebrates you can create whilst also maximising the value and enjoyment of an area.

Take care of the small things and they will take care of us.

For more information on the services Buglife can offer, or for further advice please visit: www.buglife.org.uk

Green Roof Revolution Green roofs provide vital roles within urban and cityscape environments offering far more than pleasant aesthetic diversity. Green roofs or ‘living roofs’ provide necessary habitats for a range of wildlife, and can attribute to combatting the effects of climate change by reducing a need for artificial cooling during hot weather, alongside improving a buildings rainwater attenuation.

As with all gardening projects, to build a successful green roof a strong foundation is needed to flourish. The correct growing media or substrate can be selected depending on what is required from the green roof.

Green Roof substrates generally come in two distinct mixes, intensive and extensive depending on the desired function of the green roof. All substrates need to be lightweight, free-draining, have a good water holding capacity and have good porosity.

Boughton Green Roof Substrates are specially engineered for all different types of roof gardening, both for domestic and commercial projects. All green roof substrates contain recycled secondary aggregates and an organic component to create different substrate blends depending on the end use. All substrates should be based on the German FLL green roof guidelines to ensure all essential properties are included in the blends.

Boughton’s Extensive Green Roof Substrate is perfect for shallow green roof systems lower than 200mm in depth, often associated with Sedum mats and wildflower growing.

Boughton’s Intensive Green Roof Substrate has been engineered for larger vegetation such as trees and shrubs, and is more closely representative of the traditional ‘green roof’ project.

Boughton have developed their range of intensive and extensive green roof substrates to meet different planting needs. Certain depths of growing media are also recommended for particular planting. Boughton Loam have supplied substrate for many successful green roof projects all over the country and recommend that any customer get in contact with them first to discuss the best type of product for their project.

01536 510515 enquires@boughton.co.uk

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paving for natUre

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“The research project noted improved quality of water discharged… a higher number and diversity of species present and a more natural management regime than the adjacent ‘control’ site” The growing use of sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) reveals a perhaps surprising link between hard landscape and biodiversity, as architect and Interpave consultant Chris Hodson explains.

Concrete block permeable paving is an important and adaptable SUDS technique that simply allows water to pass through joint filling material in gaps between each block into the underlying permeable sub-base. Here, it is stored and eventually released either to the ground or subsequent SuDS features along the management train. It is also capable of handling additional rainwater from adjacent roofs and impervious paving around twice its own area.

The important role of permeable paving as a SUDS source control technique is recognised in all the SUDS guidance. But its real strength is an ability to remove water-borne pollution offering the important – and often missed – opportunity of a gradual supply of treated water that can be exploited for landscape design, harvesting and – particularly – to foster biodiversity. It can form the head of green or blue wildlife corridors traversing developments, working with the natural topography of the land. Permeable paving also ensures an absence of traditional drainage gullies and other traps for wildlife.

Exemplar Projects Projects by SUDS designers Robert Bray Associates exemplify the use of concrete block permeable paving to supply treated water for biodiversity and amenity further down the management train. At the pioneering Hazeley School in Milton Keynes, a terraced sequence of concrete block permeable pavements used for car parking step down the hill, providing a retention time for effective pollutant removal. This substantially improves the quality of water serving two ponds for long-term population by wildlife – notably the ‘protected’ great crested newts indigenous to the site.

The ponds themselves are highly vegetated and designed to filter the water, particularly during times of low flow, effectively acting as a ‘polishing’ feature.

In addition to providing wildlife habitats, the ponds and related areas offer a valuable teaching and learning resource for the school. Meanwhile, in Worcester, Fort Royal is a purpose-built, generic primary school for 150 children with a range of special educational needs. The SUDS scheme maximises opportunities for pupil interaction, play and enjoyment.

Water from roofs simply trickles down rainwater cup-chains or flows from stainless steel spouts onto concrete block permeable paving in the upper car park where it is stored and treated. Clean water then discharges through a retaining wall via a dramatic stainless steel pipe and chain into a planted rill leading to a natural, green play-space with a pond at the bottom of the site, together with runoff from uphill playground areas, via a glass-sided pool.

Innovative Housing Similar principles have also been applied to housing projects, including an innovative Co-Housing Project in Stroud, laid out along a central pedestrian street. Here, SUDS are considered as an integral part of the urban space, handling runoff on a steeply sloping site. Vehicle access and car parking is limited to the top of the site where concrete block permeable paving gathers up runoff, treats it and stores it.

Discharge from the tanked permeable paving, together with some roof water, is directed to a ‘waterfall’ flowing onto a densely planted swale below. From here, water makes its way naturally through the site alongside the pedestrian street in rills planted by individual house occupants, a wildlife pond and a play area which also acts as a detention basin – augmented by below-ground storage – eventually meeting up with an established stream.

SUDS have also been used effectively in a high-density (106 units/hectare) town-centre housing scheme In Stamford, Lincolnshire. Most public areas between the buildings are concrete block permeable paving for access and parking, which also accepts runoff from other hard areas and roofs. The permeable paving does enable some infiltration to the ground but stored, treated water also passes from the paving directly into planted rills and canals, which add interest and much-needed greenery to the courtyard environment, and provide a blue/green corridor directly to the adjacent River Welland.

But do SUDS really work?

The Lamb Drove SUDS Monitoring project in Cambourne, Cambridgeshire demonstrates the use of as many SUDS techniques as possible – including concrete block permeable paving – used in combination to form an effective management train. A one-hectare site of 35 dwelling is compared with a similar, pipe drained ‘Control Site’ nearby. Although being retro-fitted to a conventional housing layout, the SUDS are fully integrated with landscaping, proving to be both popular with residents and effective.

Despite layout constraints, natural flow routes have been optimised through the site and SUDS integrated with landscape design adding amenity, interest and biodiversity opportunities to an otherwise unremarkable scheme. While roof water is piped directly to swales and basins, impermeable areas such as driveways simply discharge onto the concrete block permeable paving roads feeding into the other, vegetated SUDS features. Under-drained swales have been used for dry surfaces near homes while wet swales elsewhere provide opportunities for wildlife. The research project recorded improved quality of water discharged and reduced pollutant concentrations, together with a higher number and diversity of species present and a more natural management regime than the adjacent ‘control’ site.

Interpave, The Old Rectory, Main Street, Glenfield, Leicester LE3 8DG Tel: 0116 232 5170 Fax: 0116 232 5197 E-mail: info@paving.org.uk

Website: www.paving.org.uk

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Kidney vetch linKs ayrshire golf coUrses for small blUe conservation An ambitious wildlife conservation project to reinstate the UK’s smallest butterfly back onto the western coast of Scotland has been launched by the Ayrshire Sustainability Group. Stretching from Irvine in the north, to Girvan in the south, the project aims to create a semi-continuous corridor of Kidney Vetch along with other native wild flower species in which the Small Blue butterfly and the many other pollinating invertebrates that inhabit Ayrshire can thrive.

“By working with other golf courses and local companies, we hope to establish a chain of connected environments which will enable the initial colony to thrive and expand,” explains Amanda Dorans, Greenkeeper at Dundonald Links.

“The success of the project was dependent on finding a source of high quality Kidney Vetch seed, and we are pleased to have been supported by Germinal who donated enough seed to create a suitable environment at the Dundonald Links and Royal Troon.”

The Small Blue (Cupido minimus) is the UK’s smallest resident butterfly. With a wingspan often not exceeding 16mm, its small size makes it vulnerable to local climatic and habitat changes. Although it is classed as not threatened, the Small Blue’s status throughout the UK is declining, with the main colonies being located in the south of England and northwest of Scotland where its only food plant, Kidney Vetch, grows within calcareous grasslands and coastal sand dune systems.

Gill Smart, Local Reserves Manager for the Scottish Wildlife Trust observed: “Progress with the Small Blue would have been impossible without the enthusiasm, knowledge and good contact within our Sustainability Group.

The Small Blue butterfly would literally get nowhere without the willingness of Ayrshire’s links courses to sow and care for Kidney Vetch.”

The conservation project, which is being supported by seven Ayrshire golf clubs, local businesses and the Scottish Wildlife Trust, has been implemented following the release of a colony of Small Blue butterflies at Gailes Marsh Reserve adjacent to Dundonald Links. It is hoped that by increasing Kidney Vetch at each of the participating sites, this isolated colony will be able to expand and establish itself along the coastline once again.

“The Small Blue was last seen in Ayrshire in 1982,” explains Bob Taylor, Senior Consultant Ecology & Environment at the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI). “As such, the Group was keen to see the re-establishment of these iconic butterflies across Ayrshire and hopes that last year’s release at Gailes Marsh, and this year’s planned release at Dundonald Links will enable the species to expand along the coastline once again.”

Key to establishing a viable population is the creation and management of good quality, varied grasslands that provide shelter for the adults and where early successional conditions are appropriate for the establishment of Kidney Vetch.

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Steve Isaac, Director – Golf Course Management at The R&A commented: “The Small Blue project is an important piece of collaborative work which demonstrates how golf can drive other businesses to deliver environmental and social benefits to communities. The R&A is delighted to support this project and we look forward to seeing the results of habitat restoration to encourage the recovery of local populations of the Small Blue butterfly.”

Speaking on behalf of Germinal, Alistair Eccles, Technical Sales Representative for Germinal in Scotland explained that Kidney Vetch is very short-lived and a poor competitor “It is however an essential part of creating the right environment to support the full life-cycle of the Small Blue.

“The successful establishment of a habitat rich with Kidney Vetch requires open ground conditions, a lack of competition and quality seed of a known local provenance. We were therefore delighted to be able to support the conservation project, and look forward to keeping up to date with the colony’s progress as it hopefully spreads along the Ayrshire coast.”

www.germinal.com

slow release fertilisers protect hard working green spaces in st andrews Keeping the campus lawns and green spaces in good aesthetic condition is a year-round challenge for the grounds maintenance staff at the University of St Andrews in Fife. A high intensity of pedestrian traffic and a shorter than average growing season make maintaining a healthy grass sward an ongoing challenge, but a proactive fertiliser application programme ensures the lawns are as robust as possible, with only the very worst damage requiring a complete re-seed to rectify.

Many of the University’s lawns are sown with Germinal’s A5 seed mixture, which combines three perennial ryegrass cultivars for quick establishment, high density ground cover and hard wearing durability.

The lawns are treated with up to three applications per year of slow release fertiliser to ensure steady sward growth and rapid re-growth following damage.

The University of St Andrew’s grounds service team looks after a total of 200 acres of fine lawns, amenity grounds and open civic spaces which are used by the University’s 7,200 students and 1,800 staff, and in some cases, the city’s 17,000 residents.

“A5 is an ideal mixture for repairing hard-working lawns where excellent root penetration and density is required,” explains Alistair Eccles, Technical Sales Representative for Germinal in Scotland.

“However, it is the regular feeding with a programme of slowrelease fertilisers which really makes the difference and allows the grass cultivars to remain in good condition despite the prevailing stresses.”

This closely packed population causes significant damage in the form of ‘desire lines’ or erosion on unofficial footpaths which adds to the damage caused by pedestrian traffic from an almost constant stream of graduation ceremonies, academic events, balls and parties, a high number of which are held in temporary marquees on the campus lawns.

Kali Gazon, a turf-hardening 0-0-27 fertiliser with 11% MgO is applied at 30-40 g/m2 in the spring to give grass swards a jumpstart at the beginning of the growing season, with Floranid Turf (20-5-8) and Floranid Permanent (16-7-15) applied later in the season to maintain healthy growth and a rich greenness of leaf.

Mr Eccles explains that the Kali Gazon hardens the turf and improves tolerance to stress factors such as disease, drought and cold whilst also providing magnesium for improved chlorophyll production and metabolism. The subsequent applications of Floranid Turf and Floranid Permanent provide a slow release bank of nutrients throughout the growing season with zero risk of scorching.

“Our northerly location means we have a shorter Green spaces such as St Mary’s Quad are maintained by the University’s grounds than average growing maintenance team who use Germinal’s slow release fertilisers for consistent grass season compared to many growth and rapid re-growth following wear and damage. parts of the UK,” explains “Both of the Floranid Donald Steven, Ground products make nitrogen available over a period of 16 weeks and are Foreman. “We also have an elevated pedestrian population which resistant to being leached out of the University’s free-draining sandy makes grass erosion and soil damage a real problem. The aftermath soils. That helps to keep the University’s lawns looking good well of marquee events can have a major impact on grass growth, but into the autumn and for any damaged areas to recover as quickly as by using slow release fertilisers on vigorous grass cultivars, we are possible,” Mr Eccles concludes. able to keep most grassed areas in good condition and only have to re-seed or re-turf the very worst affected areas.”

www.germinal.com

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bees in the Urban environment Jane Moseley, BBKA Operations Director & General Secretary Humans and bees have benefited from a symbiotic relationship ever since the inception of recorded history. Whilst the human population continues to grow however, bee colonies have dwindled. Although we are not directly to blame; the urban sprawl of our cities and subsequent consumption of land- to cater for our own expansion- has unnecessarily come at a cost to our bees.

Urban planning must begin to appreciate that we, as humans, are not the sole users of land. We must recognise our responsibility to both facilitate foraging, and provide spaces for bees to nest and breed.

Such a consideration is critical to the sustenance of our long-standing mutual dependence.

As you may already be aware of the surge of interest in honey bees and the associated threats they face are well documented.

Honey bees are threatened by multiple diseases, parasitic mites, the implications of climate change and lack of diverse habitat for the food

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supply. Between 1985 and 2005 the number of managed honey bee colonies declined by 53% and our meadowlands have dropped by 97% since the 1930’s.

In order to sustain our honey bee colonies with the diversity of forage required throughout the year MUST be a priority, not just within the countryside but also within our towns cities and villages. Urban beekeeping is on the increase and our pollinators benefit from the warmer climate that these conurbations offer, whether in parks gardens, on rooftops or community spaces.

One in three mouthfuls of food are reliant upon pollination this includes the coffee you grab in the morning to the medley of fruit and vegetables we enjoy as part of our varied diet. Honey is only available from honey bees, a single colony of which require 30kg of pollen (protein) and 120kg of nectar (carbohydrate & ultimately honey) just to survive!

Simple steps that can make a big difference Brownfield sites- an oft-cited excuse used to disown our responsibility to care for nature relates to the perceived maintenance and expense it entails. Regeneration of a brownfield site will save a green site which offers diversity of forage.

While bees seek out multi-coloured oases for food, they also need a safe haven to nest and breed. Stockpiles of dead wood and heaps of leaves can provide sufficient cover for bumblebees and solitary bees to hibernate and require minimal upkeep. It is therefore more a matter of awareness; we should be careful to not disturb nests during hibernation. Although the land may not be inuse by humans this doesn’t deem it valueless to other species.

Wildflower Meadows- a hands-off approach that involves minimal maintenance. By allowing patches of ground to grow weeds and simply sowing wild seeds, we can supply bees with a variety of flowers to pollinate whilst also injecting colour into previously abandoned grasslands.

Adopt a Low-Mow regime- by mowing grass areas less frequently enabling them to flower, you will reduce emissions, save money and enhance the environment.

Flowering trees- trees offset some of the most damaging consequences of global warming. They provide drainage that curtails the destruction caused by flooding whilst also absorbing carbon to help diminish air pollution levels- which stand frighteningly high in urban areas. As a filter for wind they can ensure the right microclimate for bees to breed, feed and nest. A flowering tree is like an acre of forage.

Successional Planting- planting a diversity of flowering plants will ensure that you provide pollen and nectar to our honeybees and other pollinators. Include bulbs, seeds, shrubs, perennials, and trees into the planting mix, thereby improving biodiversity through forage and habitat.

Avoiding the use of pesticides- some pesticides contain chemicals that can poison bees, weaken their immune system reducing their ability to fight infection, dilapidate their nesting resources and/or impair their ability to reproduce.

Nesting Sites- by drilling holes in dry logs or blocks of wood it is possible to create artificial nesting sites for solitary bees. Build nesting sites into the build.

Apiary sites- careful consideration of the following factors is critical before the selection of an appropriate site for keeping a beehive in the built environment: the surrounding public, closeness to flowers for foraging, aptness as an all-round bee-friendly environment, ease of access for beekeeper and adequacy of allotted space per hive.

Become a Friend of the Honey Bee-, enjoy the associated benefits as either a corporate and/or individual friend and help us fund vital research.

Living rooftops= green over grey- aesthetics aside, making use of our skyline- opting for flowers and trees, over decking and pavingcan provide an urban sanctuary for both humans and bees. With space for expansion severely limited, green roofs are a logical move whilst still offering a sense of departure from inner city claustrophobia. What’s more, living rooftops are an ideal spot for urban beekeeping. Out of harms way, they’re

exposure to sunlight make it the perfect location for hives.

Vertical planting through hydroponics- a method of growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions, in water, without the requirement for the roots to be fixed in soil.

Avoid the pure foliage mixes and encourage floral growth to provide much needed food for our bees and other pollinators.

Allotments- flowering herbs (mint and rosemary) and vegetables (corgettes, beans, peas, avocado etc ) are great sources of food for bees. Allotments and community gardens are popular sites for bees in urban areas and there is real scope to combine the two activities, i.e. allotment keeping and beekeeping. A key concern for landscape architects in the built environment is ergonomics- the ways in which we interact with our surroundings. The scientific community regards the extent of our connection with nature, as correlating to our mental health and well-being, advancing localism. The social capital generated from our flowering, bee-friendly communal areas further inspires a sense of civic pride.

Maximise every pocket of urban space- from tree pits in road-side verges, to spaces for plants on window sills and balconies, landscape architects can and should integrate foraging into their designs for urban areas.

For more information on how to get involved in bees and beekeeping contact jane. moseley@bbka.org.uk, together we can get Britain Buzzing

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Bristol University student catching insects

biodiversity and Urban meadows Howard Wood, Environmental Consultant

The preference for installing native floral meadows over urban (horticultural) meadows often stimulates firm convictions amongst environmentalists, many of whom fall back to a default position that imported species are bad for ecosystems. Given the large number of plant introductions to the UK from around the world since Roman times, evidence is weak that alien species do harm to ecosystems; Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam being the widely quoted examples of two 'nuisance' plants that are used to back up the environmentalists’ argument.

Most alien species are very localised and none figure in the top 200 species present in our countryside; they also tend to be out competed after a few seasons by native plants which, are much more of a problem to human activities than imported species as any gardener or farmer knows.

Recent research now recognises the valuable contribution that urban meadows make to biodiversity, for the conservation of bees and other pollinating insects. In 2011 Euroflor urban meadows were used in a government funded research project to compare the value of native and horticultural species as part of the urban pollinator’s project; led by Bristol University in collaboration with Leeds, Reading and Edinburgh universities.

Thousands of insects that visited both native and urban meadows were collected and identified.

Nectar in the flowers was measured as was its sugar content. The long flowering period of annual urban meadows outstripped the value of many native flowers particularly later in the year when the natives had finished flowering. Sown at Paignton Zoo in 2014, beekeepers observed that the Euroflor Honey mix gave very positive results in helping with the conservation of the rare native black honey bee.

In defence of native species, specific plant/insect associations may require certain species to be present in specific biotopes, but this is not the realm of urban planting. Emphasis here would be to manage the habitat rather than focus attention on a particular flower species and its aesthetic qualities, in order to conserve a functional plant community. The recommended use of local genotypes in flower meadows also appears to be an emotive subject with little scientific basis.

Pollen, be it carried by the wind or by insects, has the ability of crossing counties, countries and continents, ensuring increased genetic biodiversity.

Since 2010, Euroflor urban meadows distributed in the UK by Rigby Taylor have become leaders in the field, drawing on over 20 years’ experience from continental Europe. The mixes include annuals, biennials, perennials, native and

horticultural species, spring sowing, autumn sowing, low, medium and tall growing mixes.

Euroflor has received many positive testimonials from local authorities across the UK looking at ways to maintain floral displays with a reduced budget. Typically, urban meadows with a flowering period of 4-6 months will incur an expenditure of just 15% of the cost of one display of bedding plants. Success is also due to rigorous germination testing of all the species, which is neither a UK nor European legislative requirement but explains the failure of many native meadows that rely on locally sourced seed.

Whilst annual urban meadows give the best flowering performance, perennial mixes will ensure a consistent if reduced flower performance for a few years. The management of perennial urban meadows is more complex, they are susceptible to inter-specific competition especially from native 'weed' species and grasses. It is for this reason that the Euroflor range is supplied as 100% flowers with no added grasses. If you want flowers, sow flowers, not flowers with grasses.

Further information on the Pollinator’s project can be obtained by visiting: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/biology/research/ ecological/community/pollinators/

EuroFlor Urban flower display at Paignton Zoo

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Landscape & Urban Design Issue 12

Summer 2015

Finished to the highest specifications in galvanised steel, The Luxury Planter Collection comes in 4 styles, 3 sizes and 16 colours, with a bespoke design service also available. Clients include Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Nobu, Claridges & Virgin Atlantic; their latest installation is the terrace of the $25,000 per night Vivienne Westwood designed penthouse at The London West Hollywood in LA. Created by award winning landscape designers, the planters are suitable for commercial and private projects, indoor & out, and have a life expectancy in excess of 10 years.

A second range, REPLENSIS, has been developed specifically for the hospitality industry.

www.luxuryplanters.com

British bees get a boost from bulb partnership Honeybees are getting a boost this year, thanks to a new partnership between the British Beekeepers’ Association (BBKA) and leading Dutch bulb company JUB Holland. They have developed a special bulb mix perfect for pollinators, and are donating money for every pack sold to Friends of the Honey Bee.

“We want to boost biodiversity, and pollinators like bees are so important for that.

We’re really pleased we can work together to make a difference to the honey bee population in the UK,” added Tony Lindhout, JUB Holland.

Two versions of the new bee mix are available for spring and summer, and the bulbs can be planted in the garden, window box, tub on the patio or balcony. This means bees will get the boost they need as the days get longer.

JUB Holland’s Happy Bee Mix – a jute bag filled with 80 bulbs – can be purchased via the BBKA web shop and other UK retailers. It’s also available in large quantities for planting in big gardens, parks and other public green spaces. JUB Holland offers a mechanical planting service for larger projects.

“This bulb mix for bees is perfect, and helps people do their bit to support bees this year and in the future, as the bulbs will come back for many years,” said Jane Moseley, BBKA Operations Director and General Secretary.

Contact: Tony Lindhout, JUB Holland.

Email: tonylindhout@jubholland.nl; Tel: +31 (0)622 503 674.

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stumpbusters UK ltd

StumpBuster UK Ltd was established in 1994 and has grown to be the No 1 stump removal business in the country. The company works as the franchiser of a group of 40 franchises based all over the UK offering a nationwide professional stump removal service. Stumpbusting is not new to Darren for the past eight years he has been a franchisee himself running his business over two areas. Around three years ago Darren approached the company with an enquiry to buy the business; this didn’t really come to anything. But in early 2013 the company approached him saying they were looking for a buyer, and if a price could be agreed, they wished to sell and retire. A deal was struck and the company changed hands in late November 2013.

As the proud new owner Darren is keen to get the message out that the company may be under new ownership but it is business as usual. The change of ownership does not directly affect the franchisees. They all have five year contracts with the company and the option to re-new at the end of that time. All StumpBusters are based locally and run their own business and are fully qualified, trained and insured. As the new owner Darren is taking a more hands on approach than his predecessors, and is keen to be proactive in promoting the brand and supporting the franchisees by assisting to grow customer awareness and bring in new tree surgery enquiries. StumpBuster’s are only involved with the efficient removal of tree stumps and do not get directly involved in any other aspect of tree work or garden maintenance. This means they are not in competition with tree surgeons, they work with them not against them and many have long term working relationships with their local tree surgeons. This arrangement works well for both parties. The tree surgeon does not have to wait until he has a back log of stumps waiting to be grinded to justify the hiring of a machine, or tie up capital by buying a machine that will not be used all the time. It is much easier for them to call in a

specialist as and when they need to, which is not as expensive as many might think.

All franchisees have a 30 hp stumpgrinder usually either a Carlton SP4012 or a Preditor 28RX. The SP4012 is a four-wheeled self-propelled unit designed to deliver maximum cutting power in hard to get to areas. A unique dual speed ground system allows the SP4012 to travel faster than any other stump cutter on the market today.

Some of its features include a 1-inch thick, 21inch diameter cutting wheel, hydraulic steering, direct drive hydraulic pump, four-wheel stance and counter balance valves on the lift, swing and hydraulic drive circuits. The Preditor 28RX it fitted with a Lombardini engine and will go just about anywhere. It has variable width tracks that will pull in to 26” from 39 and is stable regardless of track width. It can climb steps, work on slopes and is perfectly balanced when hoisted from it’s single, central lifting eye. This machine will grind up to a height of 32 inches.

Another difference that Darren has put in place is that Franchisees now have access to much larger and more powerful machine than were previously available to them. They can now hire a variety of much larger grinders from Darren, such as the powerful and versatile Carlton SP7015 and Carlton SP8018. The SP7015 has a 66 hp Kubota engine and combines the convenience of a narrow 35-inch backyard machine with the high horsepower of a tow-behind unit to create an extremely productive stump cutter. The SP7015 offers a huge 70-inch cutting arc while extending below ground 15 inches and above-ground height to 43-inches. The exclusive patented turntable design keeps the weight low on the frame and the engine level during operation.

control, four speed ground drive capabilities, and traction control. Cutting dimensions are 43-inches above ground, 18-inches below ground, and it has an 80-inch sweep. Darren has made these machines available to enable franchisees to focus on larger jobs, such as land clearance or work for the National Trust. These jobs can often involve massive trees where stumps are 10 -12 feet across. As further support Darren holds stock of spare parts for all machines used.

StumpBusters can offer the whole package if the access is right and sometimes when it isn’t. For smaller domestic jobs they can use the Alpine Magnum which can be carried through a house is necessary. This is the smallest of grinders and when the wheels are removed, its spike is dug into the ground enabling the user to pivot and grind away. The results of Darren’s initiatives are that all franchisees now have access to machines for every application and can remove or ground down any stump from the smallest to the largest, or reduce stumps that are already out of the ground to chips or mulch.

Since he bought the business Darren has taken on three new franchisees and business is going really well. In January he brought all the franchisees together for their annual meeting, and was pleased with the positive feedback he received regarding the sale. He told me the worst comment he got was “Well if it had to be anyone, I am glad it was you.” Darren has some good solid plans for the future of the business and is working hard to ensure that the franchisees have the support and backing they need to grow and expand their own business even further.

Anyone dialling 0800 136567 will get through to their local StumpBuster.

The SP 8018 has a 99 HP turbo charged Kubota diesel engine to give the commercial user the power he needs. Features include wireless remote

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government action on sUds “sustainable drainage systems will be provided in new developments wherever this is appropriate” Water is set to play a greater role in landscape design and outside space, with Government requirements for sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) taking effect now - as architect and consultant to Interpave Chris Hodson explains.

The 2010 Flood and Water Management Act was intended to make SuDS mandatory. But instead, with effect from 6th April, the planning system now forms the basis for implementing SuDS on developments in England. A ministerial statement first issued in December 2014 now sits alongside the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) as Government policy, spelling out “the Government’s expectation … that sustainable drainage systems will be provided in new developments wherever this is appropriate”.

These measures will be applied through local policies and plans, as well as planning application decisions on ‘major developments’ of 10 or more dwellings and equivalent non-residential or mixed developments. However, this could change as the Government intends to “keep this under review, and consider the need to make adjustments where necessary”. Actually, well-designed SuDS should cost no more – and probably less – than conventional piped drainage schemes. The government proposal that led to the latest measures points this out, adding: “All the available evidence is that sustainable drainage systems are generally cheaper to build; and maintaining them will be cheaper (or need be no more expensive) than the same cost as is required to maintain conventional drainage at present.”

Permitted Paving Meanwhile, existing NPPF prioritisation of SuDS in areas of flood risk and requirements that developments should not make flood risk worse elsewhere – often by incorporating SuDS – continue to apply to developments of any scale. And planning regulations from 2008 for paving in gardens and around non-domestic premises, whether public or private, remain in place. Here, permitted development rights no longer apply for new or replacement hard surfaces, such as drives and car parks, unless permeable paving or similar solutions are used.

Under the new arrangements, from mid-April ‘Lead Local Flood Authorities’ (at county or unitary level) will become statutory consultees on surface water management for planning applications. Local planning authorities (LPAs) must satisfy themselves of minimum operational standards and ensure that maintenance is provided for the lifetime of the development using planning conditions or other obligations such as Section 106 agreements. SuDS designs must also be ‘economically proportionate’ in terms of operation and maintenance.

New Government guidance, in the form of ‘Non-statutory Technical Standards for SuDS’, was published in March, albeit with a minimal level of information. It is still unclear whether Defra’s far more extensive, final (June 2014) ‘Draft National Standards

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for SuDS’ and its related guidance will be formalised, or other information added to the NPPF Planning Practice Guidance in the near future.

However, guidance for LPAs, developers and designers, on various aspects of SuDS is already available from a number of sources, including ‘The SuDS Manual’, due to be re-published this summer, and the 2013 Code of Practice BS8582. The Code seeks to integrate SuDS with urban design in delivering amenity and community value as well as enhancing landscape and townscape character, and stresses the importance of linking surface water management and development planning.

Near the Surface Similarly, the June 2014 Draft National Standards Guidance stipulates that SuDS: “must consider requirements for urban

design that may be specified by the Local Planning Authority, particularly in relation to landscape, visual impacts, aesthetics, biodiversity and amenity”. It also recommends that SuDS: “should aim to manage surface water within sub-catchments, close to source and at or near surface as reasonably practicable”. This avoids extensive excavations and major engineering interventions.

Concrete block permeable paving is uniquely placed to meet these requirements. All developments need hard surfaces and permeable paving requires no additional land take. This important and adaptable SuDS technique simply allows water to pass through joint filling material in small gaps between each block into the underlying permeable sub-base. Here, it is stored and released gradually, while many pollutants are substantially removed and treated within the pavement itself. Correctly designed concrete block permeable pavements are ideal for all hard landscaping

including private drives and patios, shared surfaces and adopted residential roads.

In terms of urban design, concrete block permeable paving offers a growing choice of products available from Interpave manufacturers, with numerous shapes, styles, colours and finishes - including natural aggregates. It can provide completely level surfaces and is well-drained, firm and slip-resistance without the need for cross-falls, channels, gulleys or other interruptions.

Rainwater ‘ponding’ is eliminated, reducing the risk of ice forming on the surface and preventing splashing from standing water.

Guidance on all aspects of SuDS and Permeable Paving can be downloaded via the Interpave information resource at: www.paving.org.uk/water

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soUrce control sUds secUres clean fUtUre for retail-parK.

Stormwater Management’s D-Rainclean™ protects sensitive watercourse from contaminated retail car park run-off Installation provides up to two decades maintenance-free operation

Following a review by the Regulating Authorities, developers at Cribbs Causeway Retail Park on the outskirts of Bristol have turned to Stormwater Management’s D-Rainclean™ bio-remediation drainage channel to prevent contaminated surface water run-off generated by a heavily trafficked car park from polluting the nearby River Trym - a delicate ecosystem which is home to a wide range of protected fauna.

The initial SUDS proposal for the site, which has more than 12million visitors a year, was to use a porous pavement that would collect and pass run-off through an oil interceptor before discharging into the river. With such high volumes of traffic and the associated potential for surface contamination, the regulators and planning authority considered that a more robust and effective sustainable drainage solution was needed to minimise any pollution risk.

“The unique filter media within the D-Rainclean channel provided the assured long-term performance the developer needed to satisfy the regulators,” explains Neill Robinson-Welsh, Technical Sales Manager at Stormwater Management Ltd. “And from the developer’s perspective the new scheme was equally beneficial. It was quicker and more cost effective to install - as it was based on a conventional impermeable asphalt surface - and no interceptor was necessary, eliminating the need for any additional electrical service connections, alarm systems and expensive ongoing maintenance.”

In total, 448 metres of D-Rainclean have been installed within the site catchment. Run-off enters the porous channel through a 300mm wide cast iron grating rated for heavy goods vehicle traffic (Load Class D400) where it comes into contact with the filtration media. Passing under gravity through the filter layers hydrocarbons and dissolved heavy metals are removed leaving the clean water to enter the watercourse indirectly through ground infiltration or via a perforated, high strength carrier pipe installed within a gravel soakaway directly below the 470mm deep channel.

“Independent quality tests on treated run-off from the D-Rainclean system at Cribbs Causeway have shown that 90% of Total Suspended Solids (TSS) including below 63microns and over 88% of dissolved heavy metals had been removed - this meets the discharge quality required by the Water Framework Directive and confirms D-Rainclean to be an extremely effective remover of priority pollutants,” says Neill Robinson-Welsh. “The results also predict that the filter media will maintain its performance level in this location for up to twenty years before it needs replacing.”

Manufactured from robust polypropylene, each D-Rainclean channel section is 500mm long with an internal baffle wall at its midpoint which allows the system to be laid level or to a fall. Bulkheads at each end ensure dimensional stability and limit pollution spillages to a confined section of the system. Eight 100mm diameter holes in the base of the each section give the channel its porosity, allowing water to pass through to ground.

The latest brochure explaining the full benefits and options available for the D-Rainclean bio-remediation infiltration channel system is now available either directly from Stormwater Management on 01455 502222 or via www.storm-water.co.uk.

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Introducing the unique EdgeTite™ 10" Paver Edging Spike distributed by MCP Supply. If you're interested in improving paver and brick projects then look no further.

ABG launch two new porous paving systems Market leading geosynthetics manufacturer ABG are further strengthening their product range with the launch of two new plastic paving grids for use in the construction of trafficked porous surfaces; a key element in many SuDS schemes where they are proven to contribute to the positive management of storm water.

This product has been designed to fasten Paver Edging, utilized on many paver/brick installations, by increasing lateral compression during installation. When the product is installed in a properly sized and compacted base, the head of the spike moves towards the pavers, "pinching" the edging" against the paver. This results in an angled installation, adding strength where needed most and helping to resist frost heave during annual freeze and thaw cycles.

Michael Pastal, MCP Supply, 571 Industrial Rd, Lewisberry, PA 17339 www.mcpsupply.com mpastal@mcpsupply.com

Sudspave® is a plastic paving grid for light traffic applications such as car parking or where occasional heavy vehicle access may be require. Truckcell® is for applications where higher loads are expected such as truck parks or goods handling yards where forklift trucks operate. Both products can be filled with aggregate to create a free draining gravel finish, or with growing media and then seeded to form a reinforced grass surface.

The new products are backed by ABG’s technical expertise and allow ABG to offer a project specific, PI backed, design from sub-base design to surface requirements across the whole site. www.abgltd.com

BITUCHEM LAUNCHES NEW NATRATEX POROUS HARD LANDSCAPING PRODUCT Bituchem has re-invented its leading Natratex product to create a new porous alternative to the popular asphalt material. Natratex Porous has been designed to replicate the natural infiltration methods of water and doing away with the need for conventional draining systems.

Bituchem has introduced Natratex Porous in response to the demand for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in commercial and domestic landscaping due to the prolonged periods of rainfall, whilst maintaining the natural aesthetics of the Natratex product.

For further information on Natratex Porous or to discuss your specific requirements for an application contact Bituchem on 01594 826768 or 07584 311266, or email: mark@bituchem.com or visit the company’s website at www.bituchem.com

Hydro BioCell™ Engineers in Nature’s Way Hydro BioCell™ introduces the pioneering principles of bioretention to urban environments, highways and car parks in an attractive, compact and predictable technology.

Hydro BioCell™ is a SUDS-compliant drainage unit which harnesses natural biological and chemical processes to combine stormwater control with treatment of pollutants and sediments, ideal for both retrofitting and new developments.

From the surface, the Hydro BioCell™ system looks like a tree or shrub protruding through a decorative grating at pavement level. Stormwater runoff is channelled through a kerbside inlet into a concrete container underneath filled with a mulch, plant and soil filter medium.

“Often the most sustainable drainage solutions are those which engineer in nature’s way – combining the best of natural processes with a simple and practical technology,” said Alex Stephenson, Group Market Development Manager at Hydro International. “Hydro BioCell™ provides filtration in an attractive unit that enhances the landscaping and amenity of a street scene, with the added advantage of keeping tree roots contained.

“Often, achieving SUDS-compliant filtration can require a treatment train solution with a range of drainage elements, each providing a level of treatment and targeting specific pollutants. The beauty of Hydro BioCell™ is that as it operates through an array of physical, chemical and biological processes simultaneously to provide a mini-treatment train in a single device.”

Underneath the pavement, the Hydro BioCell™ system comprises a concrete container with a 75 mm mulch layer, 500-750 mm of unique soil filter medium, an observation/clean out pipe and an under drain system, which is connected to the surface water drain, infiltration or soakaway system.

Treated water can also be diverted into additional storage / infiltration systems using geocellular structures such as Hydro’s Stormcell® or the Stormbloc® systems. An emergency overflow bypass facility is used for extreme events.

Hydro BioCell™ connects simply to drainage inlet and outlet systems, provides for ease of design against flow control and treatment parameters and performs consistently whatever the site characteristics.

Hydro BioCell™ is part of the Hydro StormTrain® Series of stormwater treatment products.

For more information about the Hydro BioCell™ Bioretention System and other Stormwater management products please call 01275 337977, email enquiries@hydro-int.com or visit www.hydro-int.com.

Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

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the forest in yoUr garden FSC® UK invites visitors to this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show to enter a world where the forest meets the garden and explore how wood can be used in our gardens, whether in the form of trees, timber or forest products.

A nuthatch in FSC certified in the UK. In FSC certified forests wildlife is protected.

Photo Courtesy of Richard Allen

The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) UK, a charity dedicated to the protection of forests, first exhibited at Chelsea in 2011.

In 2015 we can be found on stand GPJ5 with a larger and more ambitious stand in the ‘Discovery Zone’, the educational area of the show, housed within the Great Pavilion. Speaking of which, it’s worth noting that we lose an area of forest the size of the Pavilion every 4 seconds, a key reason why gardeners and non-gardeners alike need to make sure their choices support responsible forestry. If you’re not sure how, then read on!

The FSC ‘tick tree’ logo can be found on a huge range of garden and outdoor wares from shovels to sheds and gates to gazebos. This is your assurance that wood, paper and other forest products have been responsibly sourced from well-managed forests and/or recycled materials. FSC helps take care of forests and the people and wildlife who call them home.

Our Chelsea exhibit showcases some of the ways in which trees (including small-leafed lime, English oak, field maple and hazel) and woodland plants can be used in the garden, and the many wood/forest goods available to gardeners. The stand will also feature a variety of other trees and saplings.

Visitors can take a well-earned rest from the Chelsea bustle in our arbour and marvel at the array of FSC certified timber

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and garden products that make up our timber ‘tree’.

The 2015 exhibit has been beautifully designed by Kirsti Davies, who has previously masterminded several highprofile installations at Kew Gardens, including the Incredible Edible Tea Party, which featured a magnificent oak table where the food grows before your eyes.

Staff from FSC UK and WWF UK will be on hand to answer questions. We will be asking visitors to add their name to WWF’s forest petition, calling for the closure of legal loopholes that allow products made with illegally harvested wood, including items such as garden tools, to be sold in the UK. The petition has already been signed by more than 64,000 people and will be presented in time for a review of the EU Timber Regulation later this year.

We are indebted to Sainsbury’s and WWF UK for sponsoring the exhibit and to the fantastic FSC companies who have supported us by donating FSC products: Brooks Bros (timber and plywood), Burgon and Ball (tools), Gardman (tools), Duncombe Sawmill (planters), Forest Garden (arbour) and William Sinclair Horticulture (horticultural bark).

You can find out more about FSC at www.fsc.org.

FSC UK

11-13 Great Oak St, Llanidloes, Powys, SY18 6BU 01686 413916 info@fsc-uk.org www.fsc-uk.org

Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

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A WALK IN THE PARK Take a stroll through London’s Kensington Gardens and as you approach the Albert Memorial you can’t help but notice the picture postcard view of the monument and Albert Hall, framed by London Plane trees. Naturally, the good health and longevity of the trees is considered an utmost priority so it was of concern when the Royal Parks arboriculturalists detected nutrient shortages in the soil. Using new technology to measure the light transmitted through the leaves on the trees gave them a reading of the chlorophyll levels and their findings revealed magnesium deficiency, coupled with low overall soil fertility. The likely cause being that leaf litter is always removed, and has been for a century, taking with it the nutrients that normally would have been recycled across the area as the leaves decay. The other factors to be considered were some areas being affected by waterlogging from water draining off the wide, hard pathways and areas compacted due to foot traffic.

The Royal Parks arboriculturalists called in Terrain Aeration to treat the areas and provide a long-term solution using their Terralift machines.

“Terrain Aeration have undertaken a programme of decompaction of the soil beneath some of our most stressed trees in Green Park, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens over the last three years.” Says Arboricultural Officer, Matt Steinmann. “We know that the improvement of the soil through decompaction, injections of mycorhizzae and nutrients and subsequent mulch application will benefit our trees in the long term, extending their viable lifespan, and ensuring their continued contribution to the amenity of the park and the environment.”

A tree feed mix containing slow release general nutrients and magnesium was injected, using the Terralift’s ability to inject granular material via its seaweed carrier, forcing it upwards into the root zone of the trees. This also

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avoids losing the nutrients to the grass which would occur with surface treatment. Two Terralift machines were used to carry out the process. The Airforce, Terrain Aeration’s largest ride-on, treated the avenue of trees with three lines of injection holes. One line was on the drip line of the trees, the second line two metres outside and the third two metres inside the line. The Tracker, a small and nimble machine, was then used to treat lines in between the trees in each avenue. Air pressures of about 15 bar were used to ensure complete distribution of the nutrients within the root zone, where the fertiliser becomes available for the trees to take up as the slow release occurs. Overall, the process was a straightforward and ideal solution with the minimum disruption to the park, ensuring the longevity of the London Planes. Matt adds: “Terrain Aeration deliver their works in a timely and efficient manner, ensuring that their activities are safely and effectively carried out, and are minimally disruptive to park users.”

Terrain Aeration: www.terrainaeration.co.uk Telephone: 01449 673783

PURPLE HAZE

FOR LOW MAINTENANCE DISPLAYS, ADD OUR ENRICHED BIOCHAR SOIL IMPROVER TO SOIL OR POTS BEFORE PLANTING OUT

WWW.CARBONGOLD.COM

Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

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Flower Bulbs It is very important that people who buy flower bulbs, need to be sure they are a good flowering size.

Obviously the larger the bulb, the larger the growth produced and the better the result.

Unfortunately, especially in some of the trade in discount retailers, where the buyer seems more interested in a low price, than giving the customer a good quality product, many customers will be disappointed with the result.

BIOCHAR – ENCOURAGING HEALTHY FLORA AND FAUNA With biodiversity high on the agenda, landscapers are increasingly looking for more environmentally friendly planting techniques to encourage healthy flora and fauna.

A natural soil amendment is currently making waves in the landscaping industry. Biochar is a high carbon form of charcoal used to improve soil nutrition and growing conditions. It is also a unique way of cutting carbon emissions. One tonne of carbon locked away in biochar and buried in the soil represents three tonnes of carbon dioxide being removed from the atmosphere – good for the planet and great for growing healthy plants.

Because of its microscopic honeycomb-like structure, biochar provides the perfect habitat for beneficial soil micro-organisms, such as mycorrhizal fungi and actinomycetes bacteria, to flourish. This creates fertile soils that are full of life, and plants that are naturally fed and protected by the fungal colonies to which they play host.

Biochar also acts like a sponge, significantly improving the water-holding capacity of soil or compost, resulting in measurable water savings. It also helps to retain mineral nutrients that would otherwise be leached away by rain, improving the natural health of soils for decades to come allowing you to cut down on the chemical fungicides and fertilisers that often destroy local wildlife populations.

Healthy biochar-enriched soils enable plants and wildlife to flourish. Biochar encourages better root systems, growing more abundant, disease resilient plants and flowers - which in turn encourage the natural colonies of insects and birds so essential for biodiverse landscapes.

Carbon Gold are the world’s leading biochar company: www.carbongold.com

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The minimum bulb size e.g. for tulips should be 10/11cm, daffodils 10/12cm, rockery narcissi 8/10cm, crocus 7/8cm, hyacinths 14/15cm etc.

Nearly all bulbs are measured by the circumference, or round middles except English daffodils which are measured over a long slot riddle.

Any bulb information is available at the British Flower Bulb Association, c/o Springfield’s Horticultural Society, Spalding, Lincolnshire.

D & R Simmons Ltd www.drsimmons.co.uk

create a garden of serenity with tigertUrf Leading artificial turf manufacturer, TigerTurf UK, has further extended its market leading landscape range with two competitively priced, visually appealing additions – Serenity and Serenity Lite.

Combining a mixture of green and jute tones, Serenity is a silky soft grass which mimics a healthy natural lawn. With a dense appearance, the surface stands at 30mm in height and is suitable for light to medium traffic.

The Serenity Lite variant is available with a lower pile height of 20mm, and imitates the look of a freshly-mowed natural lawn.

Both surfaces are comprised of a combination of texturised and straight yarns which are made in Britain, and backed by the quality and reliability of leading global textile technology group, TenCate.

Paul Langford, Managing Director of TigerTurf UK comments: “We’re pleased to be introducing these brand new, exclusively developed products into the UK landscape market. The Serenity range will offer homeowners value for money, enabling installers to provide bespoke and aesthetically pleasing solutions.”

Both Serenity products are available in widths of 4m. Contact TigerTurf directly for price information.

For more information on TigerTurf (UK) Ltd and its industry leading portfolio of artificial grass, visit www.tigerturf.com

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espace bienvenUe / Jean-philippe pargade **

Landscape & Urban Design Issue 12 13

Architects: Jean-Philippe Pargade Photographs: Sergio Grazia, Luc Boegly Construction Site Director: Birgit Eistert Landscape Designer : Besson-Girard Engineering Firm : SNC Lavalin Quantity Surveyor : All trades Client: Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy – Property and Housing actiondelegation Works Budget Excluding Vat: ₏95 million (2014 value) Usable Floor Area: 24,300 m2

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On a site covering nearly seven hectares in the Cité Descartes cluster in Marne-la-Vallée lies the Pôle Scientifique et Technique Paris-Est (PST) which has been baptised the Espace Bienvenüe in memory of Fulgance Bienvenüe, inspector general of the Ponts et Chaussées engineering school and father of the Parisian metro system.

The space completes the Cité Descartes that has been incorporated into this new town and meets the needs of the programme imposed by the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable development and Energy. Its aim is to group together the Ministry’s training and research facilities on the Marne-la-Vallée site and create a centre of excellence focussed on the sustainable city. The ParisEst scientific and technical pole, which brings together the various disciplines of higher education, training, research and engineering, is a major innovative project intended to encourage the emergence of a new way to design, build, develop and manage cities.

The architectural concept is based on the ambition of creating an exceptional urban event: the Cité Descartes campus. It showcases a vast public area in the centre of a block unique to the new town, which reinforces urban structures and interlinks existing facilities.

In an extension of the green setting of the university campus, the creation of a long, undulating concrete structure covered with a landscaped garden contrasts with the flatness of the site. This 200-metre long green slab makes up the large central park, which is magnified at the level of the campus and the city.

The architecture is in perfect harmony with the environment, which offers a panoramic view from the green roof terrace. The contrast between the density of the buildings that abut the block to the north and the fresh air of this vast garden enhances the urban landscape. The wooden huts by the Japanese artist Tadashi Kawamata dotted here and there reinforce this feeling.

The new Bienvenüe building is flexible, multi-functional and scalable. Its architecture fosters exchanges between the disciplines and the organisation of teamwork. This is achieved with the large multi-purpose area on the ground floor, under the arch. It brings together all the shared functions: library, auditorium, restaurant, sports rooms and a technical area made up of a monumental test hall, laboratories and meeting rooms. The layout of the main reception lobby in the axis that crosses the lobby of the Ecole Nationale des.

Ponts et Chaussées reinforces the complementarity between teaching and research. The office area located in a unit along the Boulevard Newton reconciles the independence and autonomy of each speciality.

The shared functions are in glassed areas that are bathed in natural light. They give a feeling of great transparency and perspective and overlook the large park, while the office division is made airy with the patios that contribute the warm atmosphere of the place and the well-being of users.

www.pargade.com 36 Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

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thinK oUtside the boX recycle and reUse We’ve seen the rise in popularity of upcycling shipping containers into offices, pop up shopping centres, hotels and even sustainable housing due to their inherent strength, wide availability and relatively low expense.

Why not use them in play space design?

First of its kind in the UK The team at Park Leisure have created a new multi-play range avoiding the same old, same old offering of post and platform configurations. They wanted to develop something completely different, a new innovation in the play industry with real “wow” factor. Thinking outside the box led

38 Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

to being inspired to actually use a box, a corrugated steel cargo box!

The new ‘RECON’ range sees Park Leisure take old shipping containers and transform them into contemporary, cool and exciting spaces. These activity modules can be custom fitted with a wide choice of play components for different age groups or outdoor fitness equipment, skate ramps and even parkour elements.

Regeneration Project Park Leisure found their perfect flagship site in the London Borough of Enfield. Working in partnership with the Council RECON became the centre

Eco-Friendly The RECON unit is built from recycled shipping container, old tyres and set on concrete plinths recovered during the site clearance.

piece of a large-scale regeneration project to turn Angel Gardens an old derelict, heavily fly-tipped site into an exciting new community space.

Flexibility of Bespoke Design The focus was for an activity unit for 8-13 year olds and with the site being an old dumping ground, ‘recycled’ materials were kept at the heart of the project.

Through the flexibility of the in- house design services and fabrication resources, Park Leisure’s designers worked closely with London Borough of Enfield Environmental Works Department to refine and develop a completely bespoke concept.

Using a 20ft recycled shipping container, recycled tyres, an old skip and concrete engineering blocks salvaged from the site clearance, RECON was born.

The aim was to create exciting and challenging ‘container play’ with recycled materials that had never been done before; the first of its kind in the UK. Andy Dodkins, Group Engineer for Redevelopment and Environmental

Works said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to work with Park Leisure on a new product from concept to installation”.

“Meghan, the designer was key to visualising our ideas, preparing 3D Visualisations and 3D Models, that allowed us to discuss and refine the options available to us”. Enfield played a key part in the design process which included being invited to Park Leisure’s factory to see the container play being manufactured.

Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety, Cllr Chris Bond, said: “This space has always had the potential to be a brilliant community asset and it’s great news that we have managed to transform it from a dumping ground for rubbish into a fabulous area for the whole community to enjoy together.”

The outcome is a product which perfectly suits Angel Garden’s urban feel. The RECON unit is a unique play structure within a unique play space and already a hit with the local children. The height of the unit creates a real challenge for the older age range, with plenty of routes to access the top. The steep skip slide also provides a fast exit from the unit, which keeps the local residents coming back for more.

The project is supported by the Greater London Authority through its ‘Pocket Parks Programme’ and secured funding from Meridian Water.

Quote ‘RECON’ to hear about our special offer to Landscape and Urban Design readers

Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

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Sustainability A 20ft shipping container weighs over 2,200kg so each time one is up-cycled Park Leisure are saving thousands of kilograms of steel. In addition these units are self supporting with simple foundations ideal for healing old ‘playground scars’ or disused areas of hard-standing, reducing the amount of traditional building materials needed for installation (i.e. stone and cement).

UK Steel Manufacturing The Kent based playground manufacturer drew on its specialist skills in bespoke steel fabrication and large manufacturing facility.

Park Leisure’s experienced designers and engineers faced many challenges when working with the re-used container and developing it to meet the playground safety standards BS EN1176. It was crucial to design as much visibility through the unit as possible for the client to install it in a public space but removing side walls weakens the structural integrity of the container.

Where both sides were cut away their experienced steel fabricators added a seamless supporting frame. Where corrugated ends remained, apertures were sensitively cut out to follow the pattern and preserve what was left of the original container’s charming urban features.

Park Leisure MD Paul Hoenigmann said: “This exciting project showcases the capability of our UK manufacturing site at a time when many companies take work abroad.

We are delighted to be at the forefront of design, innovation and engineering. At a time where space is a premium we now have a solution. We were delighted to have delivered with Enfield Council on this design and thank them for all their input.”

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For more information on Park Leisure’s new and totally unique RECON range and to see how you could work with them to create your own recycled unit for a special project like Angel Gardens please contact Park Leisure on 01233 840141 or visit www.parkleisure. com.

welcome to the interactive era When the best of computer games and outdoor play comes together The outdoor play market is constantly changing. At Jupiter Play we’ve always been driven by this principle of evolution and innovation and as a result we are now extending our product offering with exciting interactive play products, especially designed for the newest generation of kids, with the support of Yalp Interactive.

Open your mind and discover unique products that will make an impact. Even adults won’t resist!

SUTU:

FONO:

SONA: THE DANCE ARCH FOR EVERYONE

Ball fans will be all over the moon with this revolutionary interactive sports wall. With 16 impact sensitive panels that measure the ball shots individually, coloured LEDs and dynamic sounds that will give feedback to the players. The new toy for sports clubs, public parks or any space with ball lovers!

A meeting point with a DJ system in the middle for youngsters to hang out! Just put your phone on the table and start adding effects and mix songs. Fono is eco-friendly as it only uses solar energy. It’s highly resistant to vandalism thanks to its heavy duty structure. The harsh sound proofing walls prevent music levels disturbing the neighbours. Ideal for skateparks!

Everyone dances on the FunkyFloor until the music stops and you hear "Freeze!", when you will have to stand still as quickly as possible! The camera sees everything: If you move your number will be called. The players on that number have to leave the floor. Sona has up to 9 different games that will add hours of fun to any park.

THE ULTIMATE BALL WALL

BE A REAL DJ

Call us today for more information on 0131 445 7989 www.jupiterplay.co.uk | info@jupiterplay.co.uk

BUY INNOVATIVE ROPE AND NET PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER VIEW THE FULL RANGE AT WWW.HUCK-NET.CO.UK

W NE

HUCK PLAY SPIDER SERIES

! DESIGN

• MANUFACTURE • SUPPLY • INSTALL

DOUBLE BLACK FOREST TOWER

! ! !

42 Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

star rUbber environmental ltd

Safety Surface Specialists within Play and Landscaping Areas Star Rubber Environmental is the UK’s only manufacturer of TigerMulch and Agri-Flex rubber Chippings made from 100% recycled rubber.

Both are ideal natural looking resin bound products for tree surrounds, allowing space to grow and water to permeate to the roots.

The products have been tested to the water permeability test EN 12616 with a flow result of 5022mm/hr.

Neither will collect rubbish, nor create a trip or heel hazard and are buggy and wheel chair friendly, making either an excellent choice for your surfacing needs!

All our safety surfaces have been tested to BS EN 1177 and BS 7188 to conform to all criteria required, ensuring the highest quality and standard for a long lasting performing surface.

Please contact us for further details or information 1A Belmont house, Aller Langport, Somerset, TA10 0QN T: 01458-253377 F: 01458-253375 E: tigermulch@aol.com W: www.star-rubber.com or www.star-rubber.co.uk Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

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prolUdic presents

innovative themed play

By Gemma Nickerson, Marketing Manager at Proludic

“Imagination is everything.

It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.”

Albert Einstein Proludic are one company that has an extensive themed equipment range that allows equipment to be categorised into five distinct styles: City Get out to the big city and become a postman, fire fighter or even an ambulance driver!

Aquatica Go under the sea with fish and creatures found at the bottom of the ocean!

Adventure Lose yourself in the jungle of the tropical rainforest!

Metropolis Transport each child to the futuristic city built on science fiction!

Medieval Become your favourite princess or knight in this castle fortress!

New for 2015 we have also allowed this theming to be carried across to our popular and existing Diabolo multiplay equipment range. Diabolo is a cost effective solution for providing a variety of activities in compact spaces.

Themed equipment encourages playing, learning, discovery and invention for children from 2 years onwards.

It can make a play area come to life!

Crucially it also provides children with a platform to be creative and imaginative.

The games they play on themed equipment can go beyond the structures themselves. Children can be whatever they want to be: a firefighter, a princess, an astronaut…the list and possibilities are endless.

"Imaginative Play - Play where the conventional rules, which govern the physical world, do not apply."

Bob Hughes, ‘A Play-Worker’s Taxonomy of Play Types’

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If you are interested in using theming in your play area project, here are our five top tips:

Use a consultation with local children and adults to find out what they would like to see and adapt their ideas into the overall theme.

Use the natural environment the play area sits in to shape your theme.

Personalise your playground to local history of culture.

Ensure that the full play project caters for all age ranges.

Use the manufacturer’s knowledge and design flair to help put your dream theming into reality!

Beyond these standard themes available, Proludic also have the ability to create bespoke ideas, sketches or even logos on their equipment. This crafts a truly innovative playground with a unique look.

It is an opportunity to raise the profile of playgrounds within your communities. All of our bespoke elements can be made to fit seamlessly into existing themed equipment ranges – creating a consistent look.

A great example of what can be achieved is our case study of RAF Brize Norton.

We built the Hercules plane which was completely bespoke, inclusive and had a wing span of 19 metres. The play area has been a huge success and was opened by the Prime Minister David Cameron in 2011.

More information on this project and all our themed products are available on our website www.proludic.co.uk

play and sports equipment specialists

contact us for any Enquiries. email: MARKETING@PROLUDIC.CO.UK WWW.PROLUDIC.CO.UK 0115 982 3980

bridport based hUcK nets (UK) acquire all play of co.down, northern ireland The Bridport based manufacturer and supplier of rope and net solutions, Huck Nets (UK) Limited are pleased to announce their acquisition of All Play Limited based in Northern Ireland. Established in 1998, All Play, a family run business, is one of Ireland’s leading providers of play equipment and related services. The fourteen strong firm, under the leadership of Brian McKee, Managing Director, with his wife Jill and daughter Hollie, are well-known within the industry for their expertise in the design and installation of playgrounds. The relationship with All Play is not a new one. The Play Division of Huck Nets has been supplying All Play with their innovative rope and net play equipment for some 10 years and Huck’s play equipment is installed in many of the playgrounds that All Play have designed and installed including Loughgall Country Park, and Marine Gardens, Carrickfergus.

Commenting on the acquisition, Jon LeggBagg, Huck Net’s Managing Director said: “All Play is a thriving firm that will help to augment our service offering. Acquiring All Play not only demonstrates our commitment to the Irish market but also our desire to be the leading manufacturer and supplier of rope and net play equipment in the UK. We have tremendous respect for Brian and his team, and having them as part of our business strengthens our expertise

46 Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

and position in the Play industry. We look forward to working with them all. ” In response, All Play, Managing Director, Brian McKee said: “I am excited to be joining forces with Huck Nets (UK). Our philosophy at All Play has always been to create the best possible play experience for those who use our playgrounds by producing schemes that are innovative, educational, challenging, stimulating, age-appropriate and above all, fun! We have been incorporating Huck’s rope and play equipment into our designs for some years as it fits our ambitions well.

As a result I am very aware of the quality of their products and the people they employ.

I believe our specific assets will help Huck increase market share in Ireland and our joint expertise will enable Huck to achieve their ambition of being the market leader for rope play equipment in the UK and Ireland” All Play will continue to operate under the same name and management but is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Huck Nets (UK) Limited. The acquisition will also give a base in Ireland, at Ballynahnich, County Down, for the Huck’s installation team – Huck Tek – whose business is growing rapidly across the country.

Huck Nets (UK) Ltd Phone (01308) 425 100 Fax (01308) 458 109 E-mail Sales@hucknetting.co.uk

www.huck-net.co.uk

We don’t limit our imagination and we won’t limit yours Get a copy of our NEW Catalogue!

"Just received your new brochure and we love it, some beautiful stuff in there and it’s got the lovely new book smell!

Double win" - F. Boakes, from Waverley Borough Council

As an independent, design led company at Jupiter Play we have been designing award winning play spaces since 1999. We have a wealth of expert knowledge and experience in the design, supply and installation of both formal and informal play areas as well as bespoke equipment. With thousands of standard products across our different ranges, we have a solution for every project. We can also provide bespoke solutions by either adapting our existing units to suit or we can design new units that are fully compliant to EN1176 and EN1177 play area standards.

Flexibility and adaptability are at the heart of both the Jupiter Play and FHS ethos – we design and comply with safety standards to work with you to make your design a reality. We are as flexible as you need us to be; we equally welcome full design, supply and installation only projects as well as providing details and technical information for specification only

If you think that your play idea may not be feasible, think twice.

Scan the QR code to watch a step by step video for the making of this chimney, our most recent example of bespoke play.

Our bespoke capabilities go even further beyond the choice of timbers available to you. Every piece of equipment is tailored to your site and preferences.

The possibilities are endless creating a truly unique unit which suits your wishes, for example: post and panel colour options; mix and match play elements; add more play elements; choose your slide types; add personalised features and so on!

What are the ideas you have in mind? We are listening.

Speak to our design team today on 0131 445 7989 | www.jupiterplay.co.uk | info@jupiterplay.co.uk

Miroad Rubber – the new one stop shop for play, sport and leisure surfaces.

Miroad Rubber can supply 19 colours of EPDM granulate plus PU binder for fast delivery from UK stock at incredibly competitive prices. Customers switching to Miroad are routinely saving around 15% on their wetpour. In addition, Miroad offers expert technical advice from design ideas to installation training.

Miroad also has a comprehensive range of recycled rubber tiles and pavers. Miroad products are tough, impact absorbing and visually stunning. Miroad already has a worldwide reputation for quality products for play, sport and leisure landscaping, and is now available in Europe for the first time.

Tel 01278 727755 or 07475 872495: email sales@miroadrubber.co.uk web: www.miroadrubber.co.uk

SOFT TOUCH GRASS FROM QUICKGRASS. Excellent Premium Quality Artificial Grass from Quickgrass is ideal for anyone looking for a low maintenance outdoor ground surface option with that extra soft touch feel!

Low Maintenance! SCP Landscapes based in Huddersfield have installed Richmond artificial grass exclusively available from Quickgrass. The project has taken 2 months to complete and was designed to allow disabled access throughout the entire garden in order for the home owner, who is in need of a wheelchair, the freedom to explore the whole garden including going on the lawn .The firm sub-base constructed below the Richmond Grass will allow this.

In all 320m2 of Richmond Grass was installed creating a massive low maintenance garden!

The customer and SCP researched many different artificial grasses but decided on Richmond by Quickgrass as the best quality, having the softest touch and the most realistic available. Well done SCP! Looking for a softer option?

Here at Quickgrass we have 3 high quality soft touch grasses which have all been independently tested and approved with our Quickplay shock pads. We can supply our 25mm Quickplay Shock pad, tested with our Woburn, Richmond and Tewkesbury soft touch artificial grass. (Critical Fall Height tested in accordance with BS EN 1177:2008 for Head Impact Criterion). This now means you can have the benefit of a luxury, premium soft touch grass laid over a suitable shock pad , providing the perfect surface for disabled children, adults as well as anyone who loves that soft touch feel within a safe low maintenance environment.

For more details and samples please contact Quickgrass Ltd, Worcestershire Tel: 01527 579841

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Trees Direct - trees to give and grow Trees Direct was established in 1999 and we are proud to have worked with The Woodland Trust, The Elm Conservation Foundation and The Royal Institute.

We have supplied quality trees and shrubs to designers, councils, contactors, educational trusts and plantings for country estates as well as corporate gifts. And most importantly, always taking care to protect and preserve the environment and wildlife.

We are aware that every project, large or small, is personal to the client, so we are very open to discuss ideas, offer guidance and advice to ensure total satisfaction in our service.

Telephone: 01584 878878 Email: info@treesdirect.co.uk Website: www.treesdirect.co.uk

Sparky shark Sparky shark

ark ark ark

interactive play eqUipment; a platform for imaginative play What playground activity can really inspire imagination, allow children of all ages and their parents, and grandparents even, to play and interact together?

The Inclusive Play interactive range is designed to create challenge, inspire thought and logic and unleash wild imaginations through the three unique products; Audionetic, Gamenetic and Music Ball.

The Audionetic, in particular, is one of the most interesting products as the content can be anything of your making: Do you have a story about a local historical point of interest; or want to bring to life information about wildlife in an open space? The Audionetic is a tool to capture interest, bringing information to life and increase the accessibility of this to a wider audience.

Literacy continues to be an area that many people of all ages struggle with, the World Literacy Foundation found that 1 in 5 of the UK population continue to struggle with basic levels of reading. So information points found in tourist spots or public spaces are often rendered useless or can become embarrassing for parents who cannot read.

Inclusive Play are proud to work with the most innovative partners. The latest content for the Audionetic are the Clickety stories. Clickety Books is a children's publishers that develops engaging books and resources with a unique twist; they work with experienced speech and language therapists to design stories that help to develop speech and language skills.

Founded on the principles of Auditory Input Therapy, these stories contain lots of rhythm, rhyme and repetition. This forms the foundation for clearer speech, greater confidence in talking and supports work on individual sound identification that is necessary for early literacy development.

All the stories have been narrated by some well-loved British comedians; Rik Mayall, Catherine Tate and Ronni Ancona and for a school or club setting can also be accompanied by the beautifully illustrated books. Working with well-known voices creates a connection with adults who can enjoy the humour of the stories and for children‌ well; it’s just a platform for their imagination!

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www.inclusiveplay.com

the donna loUise children’s hospice official playgroUnd opening Friends and supporters joined The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice in Stoke-on-Trent recently to celebrate the opening of a playground which has been designed and installed by Sutcliffe Play. The new playground was made possible through the generously donated £150,000 raised from individuals and companies throughout Staffordshire and Cheshire.

Mike McDonald, Chief Executive at The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice said, “One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the ability for them to play with their siblings so today was a fantastic opportunity to thank everyone who has enabled us to create such a fantastic playground”.

Indoor and outdoor play forms an important part of our work with life threatened children as play has a fundamental impact on children’s growth and development and allows them to explore, discover and make sense of their environment.

For Amanda Harrison her dream of seeing her three children being able to play together without a wheelchair or disability being an obstacle to having fun has finally come true.

Amanda says “I’m completely blown away by the playground just because James is in a wheelchair shouldn’t stop him having fun and I well up just seeing them being able to play together forming that special sibling bond, it’s priceless.”

Kevin Sellwood from playground designer Sutcliffe Play says “It’s been a fantastic and rewarding experience working with The Donna Louise Children’s Trust on the new playground. The team here really are dedicated to providing the best possible memories for children and their families. Play forms a big part of that and it has been a pleasure to design a truly inclusive playground that we’re sure will have a positive impact on everyone here.

“The playground equipment we’ve installed means that children of all abilities can play side-by-side without boundaries. The basket swing is designed to take several young children and is designed like bird’s nest. We’ve also installed a new inclusive roundabout that means children in wheelchairs can wheel themselves into the roundabout and enjoy the sensation of spinning, all together, at the same time.

“The feedback from children and families has already been amazing and we can’t wait to hear more!”

The Donna Louise Trust: www.donnalouisetrust.org Sutcliffe Play: www.sutcliffeplay.co.uk Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

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LE GRAND STADE Joly Loiret

Horse, display, prestige, arena, track, course, circuit, jumps, hillocks, slopes and mounds, terraces. Nature, forest, pine and birch, footpaths, walks across heathered heathland, plains, forest edge, clearings, grasses and wildflowers, banks, coppice. Such is the vocabulary that inspires this project. Words relating to equestrianism, landscape, and this exceptional location at the heart of the forest of Fontainebleau. Within this context, why not invent a real architecture-landscape, where boundaries between definitions blur and merge to create an appropriate intervention?

So, rather than imposing a statement here it seemed better to draw on the inherent qualities of this site, gently and subtly revealing and reusing them. The intervention that results is closer to a continuity of the natural landscape than a building in the usual sense of the word. The edges of the project envelope are undefined, allowing a functional, conceptual and formal continuity of space.

A key part of this relationship with the landscape is a pedestrian circuit leading around the whole of the site. This circuit is a public walkway, punctuated with elements of both the equestrian centre and the forest. Beginning at the entrance, the pathway crosses the exhibitors area, runs the length of the horses rest area, passes on a footbridge above riders on horseback, dips under the pine trees, runs alongside the collecting ring then the water jump, falls in line with the terraces, before climbing gently up to the top of the roof of the building, giving visitors plunging panoramic views over the arenas.

Descending from the roof, this boardwalk becomes a grand staircase that steps down through the levels of wooden terraces returning the visitor to the main entrance at the bottom.

Staircases at regular intervals along the rooftop boardwalk give access to the stands and link to ground level circulation.

This pedestrian circuit creates a loop around all of the Grand Parquet’s paddocks and sand arenas, collecting them together in a sort of forest clearing dedicated to sport.

The creation of this clearing - the competition area - is part of the overarching aim to redefine the various programmatic zones of this equestrian centre.

It is bordered to the north by the (replanted) edge of the forest, creating a spectacular backdrop. To the south and from east to west, the area of mobile and permanent horse stalls has been reconfigured to run parallel to the edge of the site, and the exhibitors area has moved nearer to the entrance and the parking for staff and officials.

A giant bank of wood and climbing flowers, the « landscape-building » has been generated by the ‘morphing’ - or modelling - of an embankment, and so fits within the pre-existing forms of this site.

The fusion of building with tiered seating, tiered seating with terrace, terrace with embankment, embankment with path, path with forest edge, forest edge with forest, positions the building firmly in its natural setting. The north side is set with tiered seating made of black locust wood, which extends the lines of the terraces. These strong horizontals continue in an arc to the east, hugging the edge of the main arena.

To the south, at the entrance, a sloping wall of climbing plants - a direct continuation of the grass slopes to either side - creates a visual and solar screen for the building behind.

Running the pedestrian walkway across the highest point of this roof anchors the building firmly within the spatial organisation of the site. It becomes a support for the flow of visitors. Its low-lying shape minimises visual impact and limits any dominance its volume might otherwise have had.

The building’s shape and the use of materials are also part of this desire to integrate the project into its surroundings.

THE MAIN BUILDING: THE BUILDING ENVELOPE

MAIN BUILDING: INTERIOR

The building section takes its shape from the angle of the south facing sloped façade, the line of the rooftop boardwalk and the north facing side cut into by its tiered seating (Depth 90cm, height 45cm).

Inside, most of the restaurant and work spaces benefit from dual orientation. On the north side, windows for the rooms occupied by event officials and venue management have been conceived to frame views of the ‘grand parquet’ arena and/or to bring in additional natural daylighting. The glazed façade of the restaurant reveals a panorama of the grand parquet and in the summer, opens directly onto the exterior terrace. The judges room projects forward giving them a privileged view over the arena.

On the building’s south side, a 2m grid provides the framework for the first layer of façade. Standardised façade panels of either wood or glass are slotted into a wooden structural frame, providing insulation and waterproofing. The second façade is a layer of lightweight screen to support climbing plants that will grow up to provide solar screening in summer and die back revealing views outside in winter.

On the north side of the building and on the roof, the terraced seating and the black locust wood boardwalk decking create the façade/ roof (ventilated, on blocks, on waterproofing).

The 45cm vertical measure of the seating, is found in the design of wooden boarded sections throughout the project; for example the ends of the tiered seating to the north are visually extended into the passages that run through the building and in the covered walkway along the south façade. In the same way that the sloping planted façade on the south side of the building flows directly out of the sloped grass bank next to it, so, to the north, this continuity is achieved with the use of wood (the stands and the tiered seating) gradually following the topography.

Wood dominates as a material. The visible wooden structure in white spruce creates the ceiling and partitioning, whilst suspended ceilings and built in furniture are made of white pine.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project comprises a total redevelopment of the site (25 hectares), the construction of a new main building, and a number of ancillary buildings.

Generally, the site has been lightly re-landscaped whilst the stabling and parking areas are completely rebuilt.

Routes for pedestrian visitors, vehicles and riders have been entirely reorganised in order to separate them as much as possible (creating footbridges that cross above routes for horses and jockeys, double circulation etc)

www.jolyloiret.com 54 Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

Main building The main building is divided into 3 clearly defined functional areas, as requested by the client : 1. A public area comprising restaurant, kitchens and public toilets ; 2. An area for competition officials and event organisers (meeting rooms, judges area, press room) ; 3. The equestrian centre’s offices and workshops.

The project divides the building into three distinct areas, each is autonomous with its own discreet entrance. These three areas are separated by two large passages that lead through the building from the entrance zone towards the stands. The autonomy of these three spaces allows the site to flexibly accommodate a variety of uses.

These separate entities are grouped together inside the envelope of the main building and are linked by the covered walkway running along the south side of the building, giving the building a coherence and compact aspect. All spaces are on one floor level for reasons of functional simplicity, accessibility and legibility.

The restaurant is on the west side of the building occupying a strategic position where the pedestrian circuit around the site meets the exhibitors’ area.

Facilities for event officials and organisers are at the centre of the building. These spaces benefit from an excellent view over the arena and easy access from the parking area for staff, officials and exhibitors.

The equestrian centre at the buildings’ eastern end, is also easily accessed from the staff parking area. It includes a delivery depot for the centre’s workshops, that links via a service road to the store to the north of the arena.

Stabling and parking New permanent stabling (in wood) runs parallel to the perimeter wall, a direct continuation of pre-existing stables on the site.

Large open areas to accommodate temporary horse boxes have also been created. These are interspersed with generous wooded areas to break up their mass. As the trees mature, these wooded areas can also be used for rest and relaxation by visiting competitors and their teams. 130 parking spaces for large vehicles/trucks have also been created near to the stabling.

Underground toilet block A ‘buried’ toilet block is planned beneath the supports of the footbridge to the north of the zone for horse boxes and temporary stabling. Made of masonry, it will be directly accessible from the stables, for both jockeys and members of the public. The idea is to hide it in the landscape to avoid adding extra structures to the site.

Washrooms and showers (competitors entrance) Washrooms and a shower block for the jockeys will be located to the left of the competitors’ entrance. This will be a wooden building similar in design to the permanent stables. Aligned to the (protected) boundary wall, this new construction will mark one side of the entrance to the site, with the stables symmetrically marking the other.

Next to this building will be a straw loft (existing, moved here) and an area for refuse.

Entrance kiosks Wooden entrance kiosks are located to the right of the competitors’ entrance and pedestrian’s entrance.

Store The store is on the site of a former open-air storage area.

It is approximately 600m2 (of which 450m2 covered). To minimise the impact of this building, the surrounding grass banks have been slightly raised and a green roof added.

From a distance, the roof disappears into the landscape.

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and the winner is…

Jacksons RHS Hampton Court Show Garden Competition Update

Since we came back to work after the winter break, we’ve been mighty busy, time seems to have absolutely whizzed by. With the first quarter of the year well and truly behind us, the next few months will be when the activity really hots up, as we have now chosen the winning entry for the Jacksons show garden for the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show.

If you have been following the competition news-blog on our web site, (www.jacksonsfencing.co.uk/showgardens) you will know judging day was in early March at Jacksons HQ. The other judges and I began a day of scrutinising and marvelling at the wealth of ideas presented to us in the entries. As the competition was open to members of the Society of Garden Designers, it was fitting that we had some help with this task from the SGD, in the shape of Philippa O’Brien and Paul Hensey, additional support came in the form of Dave Green, the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show Gardens Manager. It turned out to be a very enjoyable day, with many animated discussions, and everyone bringing their own expertise to the panel.

You can see here just some of the entries spread out on the table before we began the

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process of elimination, to end up with a short list of ‘definite maybes’. We then whittled it down to a top ten, then top five and then miraculously we were unanimous in choosing the winner.

We couldn’t announce the winner immediately though, the winning design had to go to a special RHS panel of experts who have to give their opinion of its suitability as a show garden design for RHS Hampton. I have also spent a lot of time emailing everyone who entered a design for consideration. I think it is important to let the designers know

personally they haven’t won and give them some feedback. This is time consuming, but so is entering the competition for the designers who spend a lot of time, trouble, effort and hard work in getting their entries to us.

So, I am delighted to announce the winner is Jon Sims with his design, Jacksons Secret Garden Party.

It was one of the most unusual show garden ideas we’d seen all day; it seemed to cover a lot of the requirements of the

quite loose brief we supplied. One of the things I particularly liked was the interactive aspect of the design and that it didn’t feel too elitist. In short, it is a show garden that has elements that everyday people like you and I can very easily relate to. I am excited by imagining how it’s going to look in the location that has been picked for our garden at the Flower Show. I can’t wait.

So very well done Jon Sims - I am looking forward to working with you as we start the journey on the road to building the garden at RHS Hampton Court.

Here’s what Jon had to say, “What a delightful surprise to get the call from Louise.

I knew the design ticked a lot of boxes and was something I had not seen at a show before, so I had a good feeling about it, but to win - that is a real treat. I am really looking forward to developing the design with the Jacksons team.”

Once again, I would like to extend Jacksons, and my thanks to the judges: Philippa O’Brien and Paul Hensey of the SGD and Dave Green of the RHS, who have given their very valuable time to this project. And also very many thanks to all the garden designers who have put in so much hard work, in to the many amazing entries we had.

Louise Tomlin, Jacksons Fencing www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/showgardens

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Rooftop MUGA for Space Age Salford MediaCityUK School The UK’s digital and media hub in Salford is home to one of the most unusual schools in the country – UTC@ MediaCityUK for 14-18 year olds targeting digital and media jobs.

The sleek black and space-grey exterior of the four-storey school nestles proudly in the MediaCityUK skyline of futuristic and sustainable buildings.

UTC is a radically different kind of campus with massive filming studios, a gleaming radio studio and live lounge, hi-tech gaming and design labs and a state-of-the-art science cluster.

Students get hands-on experience in specialisms from TV and film to radio and audio, graphics and design to interactive media and gaming from classrooms overlooking the BBC, ITV and the criss-crossed building of the University of Salford’s arts and media departments.

The originality extends beyond the study environment: soft-seating group work areas incorporate built-in power- and data-points; acoustic panelling shrouds quiet study spaces; wifi is available everywhere; and there’s a unique rooftop football pitch and Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA).

The 29m by 17m MUGA sits on top of a first floor roof, butted up against the four-storey building, with the wall part of the play area.

Dawn Fencing Limited of Leigh, which has been going more than 30 years and is the only fencing contractor dedicated solely to sports, installed the fencing on the other three sides.

They chose 4m-high Duo8 SuperRebound twin horizontal wire fencing panels from Zaun, which are highly durable, low maintenance, ‘graffiti-proof’ and offer great rebound properties similar to a wall. They also minimise students having to head to the ground floor to retrieve balls exiting the MUGA! Zaun had to design special base plates for the fence posts every 2.44m as they are mounted on the hard surface of the roof.

T: 01902 796699 E: sales@zaun.co.uk www.zaun.co.uk 58 Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

Advantage Tennis - the only mesh fencing solution designed specifically for tennis

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Alpha Rail long service club members

metal railings manUfactUrer celebrates 30 year anniversary When a UK based manufacturing company marks its 30th anniversary, it is an achievement that should definitely be celebrated. But when that company manufacturers metal railings, gates and pedestrian guardrail, with few repeat orders, and it has to rely on having a loyal customer base to compete for every new project, the achievement is probably worth a slightly bigger nod of commendation from UK Plc. In April 2015, Alpha Rail Limited, based in Kirkby in Ashfield Nottingham and its 40 staff, five of which also celebrate 30 years service, halted production to raise their glasses to celebrate this impressive milestone anniversary.

Founded in 1985 from the embers of a legacy metalworking company, Alpha Rail had to raise £30,000 of orders just to get the capital to commence trading.

Roger Bristol was in charge of sales at the time and he recalls “Having that pressure on my shoulders was quite daunting but I had confidence in the team around me

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Crystal Palace Park – 1980’s

and having gained the purchase orders we commenced trading and have not looked back since.”

Roger and current Managing Director Steve Shirley have been at Alpha Rail since the beginning. Steve added, “Originally the company was focused on selling pedestrian guardrail to local authorities, but had to adapt as the market changed and moved into the manufacture of metal railings, gates and other bespoke metalwork. I am really proud that we have built a reputation based on the quality of our products, our ability to create bespoke designs and our friendly service. We now have a loyal customer base who recommend us and use us again on future projects.”

Since 1985, Alpha Rail has been proud to work on many prestigious projects such as the Athletes Village at Stratford that was built for the London 2012 Olympics, restoration of Jack Hobbs Gates at the World renown Kia Oval Cricket Ground, and Jubilee Gardens, a £3.2m project on

Jubilee Gardens – 2000’s

the South Bank of the Thames in London to transform a riverside park in time for the Queens Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012. Locally, Alpha Rail was involved in the £5.2m restoration of The Forest Recreation Ground in Nottingham.

This impressive track record has also included supplying the metal railings and gates for numerous projects that have won a British Landscape Industry Award (BALI).

These include: Beacon Park in Lichfield which was a £3.9m public park and gardens project opened by Anne; The Princess Royal, several housing estate regeneration projects and a BMX park!

A factor about which the company is particularly proud, is that their commitment to high quality manufacturing means that there are many projects that still look as pristine today as they did when Alpha Rail installed them back in the 1980’s.

Jack Hobbs Gates – Kia Oval Cricket Ground – 2014

These projects include Whitehall Gardens on the banks of the Thames in London, Crystal Palace Park, Camden Gardens, Red Lion Square, Cherry Gardens, Beaumont Road, and St Johns Park on the Isle of Dogs to name but a few.

In addition to the five staff who have completed 30 years service, Alpha Rail employs 22 staff who are members of the Alpha Rail 20+ year club. This group of employees also includes Alpha Rail’s other director team members Dean Briggs, Mark Sipson and Phil Ball. A management buy-out of the founding directors in 2001, now means that together Dean, Steve, Mark and Phil are now intasked with taking Alpha Rail to its next major milestone.

With this in mind, the company has embarked on the Growth Accelerator Programme, a £200m initiative launched by the government to help businesses grow.

Whitehall Gardens Westminster – 1990’s

Alpha Rail hopes that with this support and advice, and the significant investment they have made in developing a focused marketing strategy, they will be able to push the company to increase turnover and generate the profits required to continue expansion which will help to create more local jobs and manufacturing and design based apprenticeship opportunities.

Alpha Rail Limited Alpha House, Urban Road, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 8AP. Tel: 01623 750 214 Email: sales@alpharail.co.uk www.alpharail.co.uk

WIN £200 VIRGIN EXPERIENCE VOUCHER

Visit our website to enter our 30th anniversary competition. www.alpharail.co.uk/30comp

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Fencing… Made Better!

With over 30 year’s experience, Paramount Steel Fence are one of the UK’s Leading Manufacturers, recognised as a market leader, offering: LjǤ Quality Products LjǤ Quality Customer Service LjǤ At the Right Price

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Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

Paramount Steel Fence Florida Close Hot Lane Industrial Estate Burslem, Stoke on Trent Staffordshire, ST6 2DJ

new trUstmarK tool helps over 65’s find trUsted landscapers TrustMark and Age UK have launched a new TrustMark directory to help older people find trusted landscapers more easily.

The tool which can be found on Age UK’s website gives older people a trusted resource to turn to when looking for quality tradespeople by providing them and their families with a selection of vetted traders in their area.

By using the tool the user has the assurance that they are hiring people who have passed the most stringent business and customer service checks, but have also had previous work checked onsite by qualified inspectors.

The tool will also be an advantage to members of The Association of Professional Landscapers which is an annually inspected membership of domestic landscapers licensed by TrustMark. Donna Hanlon, HTA Business Development Manager, says “We are pleased to have the opportunity to be able to give confidence to this vulnerable community, so that they can find a trustworthy landscaper who will extend the enjoyment of their garden”.

TrustMark teamed up with the country’s leading charity for older people, Age UK, to produce the tool as a response the issue of anxiety surrounding finding trustworthy tradespeople that is leaving older people across the country struggling with home repairs.

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New research released by TrustMark, the Government endorsed find-a-tradesperson scheme, has revealed that almost a quarter (23%) of 65+ year olds don’t know where to find information and are not confident when it comes to choosing a tradesman to carry out work in their homes. As a result one in five older people are leaving household jobs and repairs or attempting to carry out work themselves.

Those that are choosing tradespeople are placing themselves at the risk of rogues by not checking they have the right skills. Only 2% of the older people questioned said that they based their selection of a tradesperson on whether or not they had the right qualifications for the job.

John Edwards, Head of Service Delivery at Age UK, comments “Age UK provides advice on anything to do with getting older and information to help ensure older people make informed choices and get the support they need. Our work with TrustMark means we are able to offer an important resource for older homeowners looking for expert and trusted tradespeople”.

For more information and to find a tradesperson in your area visit www.ageuk.org.uk/trustmark

Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

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benchmark design

CHIC TEAK

street furniture

LUXURY FURNITURE

Chic Teak Ltd., are the UK’s leading supplier of sustainable teak luxury furniture not only for the home and garden, but landscaping professionals and garden designers.

contemporary design | bespoke solutions

Whilst some may not be familiar with the brand, with an enviable portfolio of corporate clients that include: The National Trust, English Heritage, Edinburgh Botanical Garden, London Zoo, Henley Royal Regatta, the MCC, Jockey Club, most City and County councils throughout the UK, Chic Teak are undoubtedly held in high esteem amongst their peers.

Managing Director Carl Drake, is delighted to announce that their "new for 2015” range to be launched at this years Chelsea Flower Show will carry the Forest Stewardship Council ® logo.

Whilst all their teak already carries the Indonesian Legal Wood and Perum Perhutani logos, FSC is the only timber certification scheme endorsed by environmental charities including WWF, Greenpeace and The Woodland Trust. Look for the FSC logo on their FSC certified range.

find out more at

www.benchmark-ltd.co.uk

Chic Teak Ltd., will be attending RHS Flowers Shows throughout 2015 or for more details visit the website at www.chic-teak.co.uk

call us on

01243 545926

Top Gardening Tips for Visitors to Hardy’s Cottage Garden Plants Early Summer Garden RHS Chelsea Flower Show 19 – 23 May 2015 Amateur and professional gardeners agree on one thing; the gardener’s mantra of ‘Right Plant Right Place’ is the soundest piece of garden wisdom ever dispensed and no one brings it to life and executes it better at the Chelsea Flower Show than 19 times RHS Gold medal winner Rosy Hardy.

Putting on a large display in the Grand Pavilion at RHS Chelsea Flower Show is no mean feat, the logistics of getting plants to perform on time and ensure deliveries to the showground are timed to perfection takes patience and the dedication of a super professional team. Some would say that after doing more than twenty Chelsea stands it must be rather like rolling off a log for the Hardy’s crew but when asked Rob Hardy would say, “we just handle the logistics and do the spade work, it’s the Mrs, the inimitable Rosy Hardy who conducts this floral symphony to its crescendo on the press day each year” Each year is different and if the mild weather continues with sunshine the stand will be really cheery and colourful with lots of late Spring / early Summer favourites, crowd pleasers and of course 3 new introductions.

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The stand has changed shape and is slightly smaller than recent years, at 11m x 8m it will however have the usual pathway through the exhibit, allowing visitors to walk through and get a full 360 degree view of thousands of brilliant garden favourites. There will be a banked area where on one side it will drop down to a pond with an undulating feel.

Trees, most likely Carpinus will be planted primarily to provide the shady area.

Marshalls have provided the paving for the curving pathway which is recycled from a previous Hardy’s Cottage Garden Plants Chelsea display.

Interesting plant material includes exotic and unusual Giant Madeira Black Parsley, Melanoselinum decipiens, an upright, robust, borderline hardy, semi-evergreen to evergreen, woody-based, biennial with a single, thick basal stem branching out to rosettes of large, pinnate, dark green leaves and, from late spring into early summer, large, dense clusters of tiny, fragrant, pale pink to white flowers followed by black seed heads.

The four new introductions are Pyracantha

'Golden Paradise', Rehmannia ‘Magic Dragon’, Antirrhinum ‘Pretty in Pink’ and the late comer to the party is Verbascum ‘Firedance’ with its intense dusky red flowers that will make a bold statement in any garden. Rosy reports that all are looking great and should be picture perfect by show time!

The display will also feature some of Hardy’s introductions from previous Chelsea Flower Shows, look out for Geum totally tangerine, Osteospermum ‘in The Pink’ Leucanthemum ‘Real Neat’, Nepeta Grandiflora ‘Summer Magic’, Gaillardia ‘Fanfare Blaze’ and Leucanthemum ’Freak. Let’s not forget Gaura lindheimeri ‘Ruby Ruby’, runner up in the inaugural RHS plant of the year competition a couple of years ago and one of Hardys Cottage Garden Plants best introductions.

Chelsea visitor favourites include, Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum', Verbascum ‘Hardy’s Gold’ and V.(Cotswold Group) 'Pink Domino' AGM, all of which Rosy chooses for their architectural properties as well as their amazing colours. The display will also show a selection of Hardy Geraniums. www.hardys-plants.co.uk

Natural Fibres For several years now, the Giant Flowerpots, with a maximum diameter of 240 cm, have been a striking feature within the Streetlife Collection.

In the Collection 2014-2015, the tree tubs are expanded with a version in bio composite with natural fibres, in addition to steel and plastic. The material is a durable bio composite reinforced with hemp and fibreglass. Characteristic of its appearance is the visible surface structure of the natural fibres, which is both attractive and ideal for public spaces, as slight damage and grime are less noticeable. The pots are available in two natural colours.

In Dijon, a special, warm burgundy colour has been used.

Treetec® treecare system Streetlife has years of experience with the Treetec® systems, which are optional applied in Streetlife’s professional tree tubs. The system ensures adequate insulation, oxygen circulation, root ball fixing, irrigation and excess water drainage, providing the best care for the tree. The simple Treetec® Basic system has been applied in Dijon, in conjunction with an automatic watering system.

Streetlife Streetlife offers a high-quality collection of street furniture, tree products, bridges and decking materials for landscap e architects. Browse through the full Collection 2014-2015 on www.streetlife.nl

trees in giant flowerpots green the centre of diJon The classic ‘Place Darcy’ in Dijon, France, has undergone a major refurbishment. The Giant Flowerpots from the Streetlife Collection have been placed above the new underground parking garage, half submerged in the square’s paving. These large flowerpots have been manufactured using the new and extremely durable material: bio composite with natural fibres.

French landscape architect, Alfred Peter, is responsible for the innovative design. The classic square has been given a green layer, which is pleasing to the eye.

An arboretum of 55 different trees in a geometric pattern has been created, the shade of which offers a pleasant retreat on hot days.

The rims of the pots are designed by Streetlife so as to form circular benches around the trees, offering the opportunity to sit down. The square’s urban dynamic has improved and is appealing. Even at the tram stops, the potted trees serve as furniture on which to sit and wait. The special Treetec® system, combined with the generous amount of substrate the tree tubs offer (3.5 m3), will allow the trees to fully develop in the urban climate. ‘Place Darcy’ has been redesigned as part of the largest Tramway project in France.

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ANS Global supports M&S Newcastle with living wall installation Marks & Spencer Newcastle unveiled the results of its extensive refit earlier this month. The new-look ecostore boasts energy efficient features such as LED lighting, intelligent door sensors and a stunning 167sq.m living green wall, designed and installed by ANS Global.

The living wall is made up to 16,000 native species including thyme, wild strawberries and cranesbill. A spokesperson from ANS Global explained: “We installed the living wall to help insulate the building and encourage biodiversity in the city centre. The living wall will offer a source of nectar for butterflies and bees, and seeds for birds.”

Mike Barry, Director of Plan A, M&S’s eco and ethical programme to become the world’s most sustainable retailer, said: “M&S Newcastle is one of our most important stores and the finished green wall and store’s eco energy refit is hugely exciting for everyone at the company.

“We hope the completion of this project will boost Northumberland Street, and provide our customers with an improved shopping experience. The green wall is a real standout, and with summer just around the corner it will be exciting to watch it continue to flourish.”

The living wall is irrigated by rainwater which is captured on the roof by a rainwater harvesting system, and controlled from the ANS Global’s offices in Chichester, West Sussex.

A spokesperson from ANS Global continued, “To mark the occasion we donated 100 of the same plants used in the green wall to three local primary schools.”

To find out more about ANS Global and its living walls visit www.ansgroupglobal.com or call the office on 0845 505 5555.

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grorUdparKen / linK arKiteKtUr

Grorudparken (Grorud Park) is one of four new neighbourhood parks in Groruddalen. The park introduces facilities for athletics, play, recreation, youth programmes, social interaction, and cultural activities for the diverse local population.

LINK Landskap was the project Landscape Architect, under commission from Oslo Municipality’s Department of Water and Sewage. However, several other municipal departments were also involved in the project – The Department of Recreation, The Planning Office, The Office of Cultural Heritage Management, and the District of Grorud. Planning and design work for the park began in the autumn of 2009, based on recommendations contained within the Development Control Plan for Alna Reserve (KDP Alna Miljøpark).

The project establishes a continuous landscape and recreation corridor from Lillomarka, via Grorudparken, through to Leirfossen (waterfall) and Hølakøkka. The River Alna is the central element of the landscape master plan, which integrates existing cultural and historical artefacts with new landscape experiences, while also facilitating greater visual and physical access to the river itself.

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The project was technically challenging. Issues relating to flood mitigation, stormwater management and cleansing of runoff from Kalbakkveien and rv.4, together with cleansing polluted sub-surface materials adjacent to Groruddammen (Grorud Dam) were critical throughout the design process.

LINK Landskap cooperated with Multiconsult regarding stormwater management, hydrology, electrics, and geology.

Accessibility and population safety placed significant demands on outdoor lighting within the project. LINK Landskap, in cooperation with ÅF Lighting, played a central role in the development of a site-specific lighting concept, which has created an exciting spatial dimension and identity for the park. Cooperation with the various municipal offices and city district was a significant part of the design and construction process, and the cooperation has yielded exciting results.

Improvement of water quality in Groruddammen through various soil cleansing techniques, was also a central part of LINK Landskap’s role. The project is a pilot project in Norway and incorporates phytoremediation (a 3 to 5 year process by which soil pollutants are bound to vegetation), reducing carbon emissions associated with transporting soil for off-site remediation.Stormwater from Trondheimsveien and surrounding areas is cleaned within bioremediation ponds before it is released into the River Alna and Groruddammen. Water quality has improved significantly, as a direct result of the project’s completion.

Architects: LINK arkitektur www.linkarkitektur.com Location: Oslo, Norway Area: 119000.0 sqm Photographs: Tomasz Majewski

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Pop Up Power Supplies® Specified at Covent Garden Pop Up Power Supplies® recently supplied six retractable service power units for installation in the Piazza at Covent Garden. The 450kg units are buried out of site beneath the famous cobbled piazza and are raised out of the ground when required by a turning handle. When not in use the units do not impact on the historic appearance of the Piazza as they are barely noticeable.

Covent Garden Technical Services Team needed a power solution for temporary stalls and events that are put on throughout the year. The solution was Pop Up Power® retractable service units located near to the Transport Museum and next to the Portico of St Paul’s Church in the Piazza.

The Covent Garden Services team staff now has access to a combination of 16A and 32A sockets in both single and three phase all with RCBO protection.

Pop Up Power® also supply electricity through Inground Units with flip top lids and Bollards in a variety of designs to suit the surroundings.

For more information please take a look at our website www.popuppower.co.uk or call us directly on 020 8551 8363 / 020 8227 0208.

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Hardwood and softwood timbers available.

Full paint finish available to a colour of your choice.

Site consultations available.

Drawings provided for approval.

We offer supply only and full installations.

Repeated associations with BALI award winners.

Modern workshop with C.N.C Facilities.

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ALAN HAYWARD JOINERY LTD Unit 7A Javelin Way, Henwood Industrial Estate, Ashford, Kent TN24 8DH Tel: 01233 625204 (2 Lines) Fax: 01233 621155 Mobile: 07906 173457 email: enquiries@alan-hayward.co.uk Web: www.alan-hayward.co.uk

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resin bound permeable surfacing specialists

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Beautiful resin bound paving for residential and commercial projects © Y {w { w z £{ x { © ^w z {w } < b w { w y{ © i ~ |wy{ C { { © ikZ y w © dw w y{z { y © W y |w < kl wx e

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STONE HERITAGE Stone Heritage provides a specialist service to dedicated gardeners and landscaping professionals who choose to use York stone.

We give advice and supply both newly quarried and old reclaimed York stone paving, steps, coping, paving, kerb, setts, pier caps, plinths and much more, adeptly cut to your precise specification.

Over the years we have provided York stone paving to some of the most prestigious projects in the UK including the Jewel House at the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, Osbourne House, the Queen Victoria Memorial and the splendid pavement in front of the railings outside the Buckingham Palace. More recently we supplied the York stone you can see in the photographs to one of the most eminent Oxford University colleges.

We supply all of our York stone from a unique quarry which produces what is arguably the densest and finest buff York stone currently available. We use specialist saw mills and skilled masons, who have years and often generations of expertise working York stone. So if you would like to join others in choosing the very finest York stone there is available for your next project from Stone Heritage, please contact Paul Tozer or visit our website.

Stone Heritage Sales Ltd, 1 Park View, The Miers, Birchover, Derbyshire, DE4 2BQ. 01629 650647 or 07966 261504 paul@stoneheritage.com www.yorkstoneheritage.co.uk

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Otterbine Urges Groundskeepers To Pre-Empt Water Quality Issues This Summer

Central Park UK before Otterbine aeration As the height of summer approaches, water management specialist Otterbine is advising groundskeepers to be preemptive when it comes to the challenges hot weather can throw at water hazards.

Water quality is a critical factor in successful park management all year round, but with the arrival of summer comes warmer water, plentiful sunlight and excess nutrients; a combination that, without a proper water management system in place, can leave lakes and ponds with algae, aquatic weeds and odours.

Roger Lupton, Otterbine sales representative at distributor Lely UK, explains why it’s vital to implement preventative measures now and not later.

“Oxygen depletion or stress situations occur for different reasons, but many lake management issues are related to

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both the light and heat generated by the summer sun,” says Roger.

“As we’re nearing the height of British summer, now is the perfect time to be assessing potential challenges. Waiting until symptoms of poor water quality appear before implementing good water management could be detrimental to both the environment and groundskeepers’ budgets,” he warns.

Low oxygen levels, combined with minimal circulation, prematurely ages water and throws the natural ecosystem out of balance. Only then do symptoms of poor water quality begin to appear, which as well as algae, weeds and odours, include sludge build up and dead fish. These symptoms not only impact on the park’s reputation, but the cost of fixative programmes far outweighs preventative measures.

Central Park UK after Otterbine aeration Roger says: “It’s vital that lake managers are fully aware of the financial implications of not acting until it’s too late – once a lake has lost its ecological balance and goes into crisis, the costs of restoring the lake increase dramatically. As well as often being more expensive to implement, reactive solutions tend to be less friendly to the environment too.”

Roger advises how to avoid an ecological imbalance, suggesting groundskeepers create an environmentally friendly programme that is preventative in nature.

“The most natural water quality management solution is to introduce aeration in to a pond or lake to eliminate stagnant water. That’s where Otterbine’s aeration systems can help,” he says.

“By increasing oxygen levels and circulating oxygen rich water throughout a lake, water quality can remain high, inhibiting algae, aquatic weeds and foul odours.”

Otterbine’s aeration systems consist of aerating fountains, industrial aerators and diffused air systems - each with unique features that should be reviewed when determining the needs of your water feature.

For more information on Otterbine aerators, contact distributor Lely UK on 01480 226948 email otterbine.uk@lely.com or visit www.otterbine.com.

The secret of healthy lakes and ponds?

Transform your problem lakes, ponds and water features into healthy, sparkling attractions, with Otterbine water management systems.

Lely. Your partners in turfcare. Call 01480 226948.

Lely not only brings you Otterbine. Talk to us too, about Toro turf maintenance equipment, Toro irrigation and TYM compact tractors.

Otterbine official UK distributor: Lely (UK) Limited, St. Neots, Cambridgeshire PE19 1QH. Tel: 01480 226800 | Email: otterbine.uk@lely.com | www.lelyturfcare.co.uk | www.otterbine.com

OT0126 Landscape & Urban Design CS.indd 1

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This was our first time showing at Manchester Central.

The Show exceeded our most optimistic forecasts, both in terms of the level of business taken at the Show and the ease of set up and breakdown.

Karl Walker, Lebus Upholstery

We enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, giving us time to spend with our customers, and the well-organised running of the Show. The results we have from the Show have surpassed our expectations.

Nichola Bell, Westbridge Furniture Designs

Bright Prospects for Metro Dome Litter Bins

HULTAFORS’ DEAD BLOW HAMMER

Giving you recoilless power without the sparks

Leafield Environmental is launching a new, economy Dome Top Metro litter bin that it claims is ideal for schools, colleges, commercial businesses and leisure use. Combining contemporary design with rugged practicality and great value from £120.

This Dead Blow hammer from Hultafors Tools delivers all the power you need, but with reduced recoil and no sparks thanks to the internal ball bearings that cushion shock and reduce recoil.

These fantastic Hammers have a fiberglass and Santoprene handle for optimal grip and comfort.

The black bin body, with its ‘tidyman’ logo is made from 100% recycled polyethylene and the bright eye catching lids come in red, lime green, grey, blue and dark green to suit your preference.

Most important of all is the fact that the Hammer’s design ergonomics and efficient operation will help reduce repetitive strain injury.

Used with a plastic sack and the internal sack retention device the bin has a capacity of 120 litres and 100 litres when used with an internal liner.

Email: comms@leafield-environmental.com Web: www.leafieldrecycle.com Tel: 01225 816541

Getting more information on Hultafors Tools is easy. You call the Helpline on 01484 854788 or check out www.hultafors.co.uk and download a digital catalogue.

Exterior/Street Furniture

RA N G E :

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Bicycle Parking

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S P E C I F I C A TION :

With a contemporary design and cosy comfort,Rthis A N GE: hardworking Hoodie is great for all trades on site.

Materials:

Like every product inBollards our Foerever Range, we use 316 Stainless Steel Made from a cosy, durable fabric for extra ruggedness, throughout for maximum lifespan, even it’s also got an adjustable drawstring hoodareas. plus kangaroo in coastal

handwarmer pockets at the front.

What’s more it’s preRANGE: Any design can be embossed, cut out washed for a comfortable and pre-shrunk or attached to the fit. crossbar. Cycle

Parking is now often S sponsored

by ION : P E C IF ICAT forand example.

With top quality Snickers embroiderylocal onbusinesses the front a 40th Materials:

Seating Anniversary logo on the arm, it is available in a wide range of sizes in black.

RANG E:

Details: Common dimensions are: Directional 750mm above ground Fingerpost 300mm below ground Signage 800mm width 60mm diameter tubing

Common dimensions are: 900mm or 1000mm above ground 300mm below ground 120mm diameter

Any design can be embossed and infilled with paint on to the top surface.

As all our Forever Range is fabricated to order in the UK, any design can be accommodated.

Common top styles are flat, semidome and mitred.

300

160 140

750

76

900

Flexible, interchangeable signage system with a wide range of fingerarm options including shape, cutouts, fonts and symbols.

100

120

Details: Common dimensions are: First post 2400mm above ground Up to 10 signs and spacers 600mm below ground 900mm fingers (from centre) 90mm diameter tubing As all our Forever Range is fabricated to order in the UK, any design can be accommodated.

2400

Unit 8, Forbes Ct, Billington Rd, Burnley R180 BB11 5UB

Tel 01282 835 371 www.steelscape.co.uk Email sales@steelscape.co.uk Options: Many finger variations including:

Many finial variations including:

Details: Common dimensions are: 750mm above ground 300mm ground www.steelscape.co.uk 01282below 835 370 800mm width 60mm diameter tubing 600

900 or 1000

120

Materials: Like every product in our Foerever Range, we use 316 Stainless Steel Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13 throughout for maximum lifespan, even in coastal areas.

SPEC IFIC A TI O N : Construction: Like every product in our Foerever Range, we use 316 Stainless Steel throughout for maximum lifespan, even in coastal areas.

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Check out your local Snickers Dealer for availability and great E N SION S: prices – but hurry, this unique celebration garmentDIisMonly available while stocks last.

Getting information on Snickers’ Hoodies is easy. You can ø call the Snickers Helpline on 01484 854788, checkout the website and download a digital catalogue 700 to 1000 at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email SPECIFICATION: info@snickersworkwear.co.uk

Surface mount and rack mount variations available.

As all our Forever Range is fabricated to order in the UK, anyDIMENSIONS: design can be accommodated.

Details: Options:

Like every product in our Foerever Range, we use 316 Stainless Steel throughout for maximum lifespan, even in coastal areas.

D I ME N S I O N S:

Options: With or without the crossbar.

Crossbar position.

Crossbar logo.

110

You’ll get a Great Deal with Snickers' 40th Anniversary Hoodie

Available in a range of different sizes, their designs design feature soft faces to minimise the risk of leaving marks on the work piece, and a flat area on the head for upright storage.

cheriton h t.0124354

Options: Available with or without armrests; surface-mounted or with extensions www.steelscape.co.uk 01282 835 370 for excavation.

Many perforation designs are available,

If y

● They mow, you don’t ● A perfect finish every time ● Fully automated ● Models available for areas up to 20,000m2 ETm65 & 65S

ETm105

Seeing is believing Etesia UK

@EtesiaUK

ETm44

Etesia UK + Greenway House + Sugarswell Business Park + Shenington + Oxon OX15 6HW

EtesiaUK

Tel: 01295 680120 + email: sales@etesia.co.uk

www.etesia.co.uk

BRUSHCUTTER MOWERS A proven performer since 1995, the Outback range of brushcutter mowers from Billy Goat can cut down dense brush up to 6” high, grass and weeds over 8” tall, and saplings up to 2” in diameter.

These machines are designed to take the abuse of hitting all those items hidden in the brush such as rocks, stumps, fence posts and tyres.

To find your local Billy Goat dealer visit www.billygoat.co.uk today For information on all Billy Goat products call: 0115 986 6646 visit www.billygoat.co.uk or email: info@hcuk.co.uk

Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

77

spratton hall school grows investment in lely with addition of new TYM Tractor Independent prep school Spratton Hall has taken delivery of a new TYM T503 tractor – an investment that’s quickly shown its worth since it arrived earlier this year.

Situated in 50 acres of lush Northamptonshire countryside, the establishment has an exceptionally good reputation, both in terms of education and the aesthetics of the school’s vast grounds.

Helping maintain this reputation is the job of head groundsman Doug McCarlie, who decided to demo a range of tractors when the need for a new vehicle arose.

“We tested out tractors from a few market leaders, including TYM, but quickly discovered that the TYM T503 was the best fit for us,” explains Doug. “Not only did we find it offers great visibility, is straightforward to use and is exceptionally roomy, but the

78 Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

fact that TYMs are supplied by Lely UK was an additional bonus.”

recommended would be equally as good as our Toro machine,” he adds.

Spratton Hall has been using a Toro Groundsmaster 4500-D for the past five years; a purchase that was also made with Lely, the UK’s sole distributor of Toro machinery.

Since taking delivery, Doug has been busy putting his new tractor through its paces and it’s lived up to his expectations.

“Through our interest in Toro, we’ve successfully done business with Lely for years, so felt that using the same distributor for all our turfcare needs really made sense,” he says.

Dealing with Stewart Jeffs, one of Lely’s specialist groundscare retail sales managers, was also instrumental in Doug’s decision.

“We’ve got a great relationship with Stewart and have always respected his knowledge and advice, so were confident the tractor he

“Our new TYM is a pleasure to use,” says Doug. “Since it arrived, we have been busy harrowing, slitting and fertilising and have even put it to work snow ploughing twice this year already!

“Whatever the job, the design of the cab makes it that much more comfortable to use and the control system is fantastically simple to operate. Even with the snow plough fitted, you can still drive the vehicle using the same controllers, which is a real benefit.” www.lelyturfcare.co.uk Lely is also on Twitter @LelyUKTurfcare.

The Toro® Groundsmaster range with SmartPower™

The Smart Choice

SmartPowerTM from Toro gives you dramatic efficiency savings on our GM4000 Series – without compromising on performance.

Acting as the ‘brains’ of the machine, Toro’s revolutionary new SmartPower system automatically controls mowing speed according to ground contours and terrain for optimum cutting performance.

It means all four mowers in our 4000-D Series rotary range can now offer dramatic savings in fuel and running costs without compromising on productivity and performance. In particular SmartPower prevents bogging down in heavy turf to provide an unmatched quality of cut even in difficult conditions. What’s more – the 48hp engine options comply with new EU emissions rules for non-road vehicles. It all makes it the smart choice.

Full product details at www.toro.com Put us to the test. For a free onsite demonstration, call Lely on 01480 226800

With the revolutionary SmartPower technology Intelligent power use Automatically controls mowing speed Prevents bogging down Reduces fuel and running costs Complies with EU emissions regulations

GROUNDSMASTER 4000-D

GROUNDSMASTER 4100-D

GROUNDSMASTER 4500-D

GROUNDSMASTER 4700-D

Lely. Your partners in turfcare. Call 01480 226800.

Lely not only brings you Toro. Talk to us, too, about TYM compact tractors and Otterbine water management systems.

Toro Commercial Products are distributed by Lely (UK) Limited, St. Neots, Cambridgeshire PE19 1QH. Tel: 01480 226800 | Email: turfcare.info.uk@lely.com | www.lelyturfcare.co.uk | www.toro.com

MAKITA EXPANDS PETROL GROUNDS MAINTENANCE RANGE t t t

Powerful 4-stroke mulching lawnmower 25.7cc bent-shaft line trimmer 4-stroke back-pack mist blower for crop protection operations

Makita continues to expand its petrol engine range of grounds maintenance, landscaping and gardening equipment for horticulture and grounds maintenance operators. Three new machines are joining the recently introduced 4-stroke EN4951SH pole hedge trimmer which has immediately proved popular with major ‘green service’ contractors in the UK. The three new machines are the 4-stroke PLM4817 mulching lawnmower which has a 48cm width of cut; the 2-stroke ER2600L, clean emissions, bent-shaft line trimmer and the powerful PM7651H back-pack mist blower designed for efficient delivery of chemical fungicides for tree and brassica crops.

The new Makita PLM4817 push-type lawn mower is powered by a 140cc 4-stroke Briggs & Stratton 500E engine that meets all emissions regulations with low running costs and low noise output. This easystart engine drives the offset blade layout for a 48cm width of cut.

A mulching kit is standard equipment for this side discharge mower with single lever height control for eight cutting depths between 25 - 70mm. With a steel deck for longevity, folding soft-grip handle for compact storage or transport, the new PLM4817 is ideal for lawns up to 1400m².

80 Landscape & Urban Design Issue 13

The latest Makita 2-stroke engine in the new ER2600L 25.7cc 1.2hp line trimmer is equipped with a catalytic muffler to fully comply with EPA and EU Stage 2 emissions regulations. The bent-shaft configuration enhances the balance and control of this trimmer, which weighs just 4.3kg, and has a low vibration D-style forward control handle. The new design of compact line-head protector provides a better view of the cutting area without loss of clippings control.

Primarily designed for use in orchard and vineyard operations or the coffee plantations of Brazil, the new Makita PM7651H 75.6cc backpack mist blower has a 15 litre chemical tank capacity. With the high performance Makita Mini 4-stroke engine delivering up to 14.1 m³/m maximum air volume at a maximum velocity of 85 m/s the spray range will reach 13 metres vertically and 16 metres horizontally. The chemical / air mix is automatic. Weighing just 14.1kg this powerful mist blower is easy to use in operation with an exceptionally comfortable and fully supporting back-pack harness.

For more news and product information about Makita UK please visit www.makitauk.com. Follow us on Twitter @MakitaUK and Facebook.com/makitauk

landscape in battersea park 22nd & 23rd of September 2015 LANDSCAPE, the industry’s annual meeting place, is on the 22nd & 23rd of September 2015 in Battersea Park in central London.

This year see the trade associations, trade bodies and media bringing the industry together.

LANDSCAPE is delighted to once again support the SGD ‘Product of the Year award’. The short listed entries will be appearing at the exhibition itself with the winner announced live at the show.

BALI are wholeheartedly supporting the event and again have a Pavilion of Members for you to meet.

As part of LANDSCAPE’s ongoing commitment towards uniting the industry and enhancing the professional qualifications of it’s practitioners, all of the ‘free to attend’ seminars at this year’s LANDSCAPE Show qualify for CPD learning points.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is defined as ‘a commitment to structured skills enhancement and personal or professional competence’ and organisations that are granted membership by the CPD Certification Service must clearly demonstrate expertise in their field and provide a place for industry to turn to for advice and guidance.

This year there is again a chance to ‘Meet the Media’, - your opportunity to speak direct to the journalists that cover your industry. Alongside them will be a special ‘Meet the Author’ desk. Come and talk to the authors of those publications that have always interested you.

Due to high demand from overseas suppliers, we are delighted showcase our International Pavilion. Focusing on the newest trends, innovative products and exciting opportunities, the pavilion will allow visitors to experience ideas from all over the World in one location.

Where creatives meet to ...

design, source, build & maintain

www.landscapeshow.co.uk

Our show attracts over 3000 visitors from across the design world. Our diverse exhibitor list, engaging seminars and backing from key industry associations means we welcome landscape designers, architects, contractors, facilities managers and interior designers to name just a few.

Supported by trade associations and media from across the globe, LANDSCAPE is now internationally recognised as the ‘go to’ show for the industry.

LANDSCAPE is truly uniting the industry and has something for everyone.

Make sure you are part of it this year and visit our website for more details. www.landscapeshow.co.uk

Landscape Tuesday 22nd & Wednesday 23rd September 2015 Battersea Park, London

The biggest and best landscaping event...

just keeps getting bigger...

and better...

For more information and for stand bookings contact us on +44 (0)207 821 8221 or at info@landscapeshow.co.uk

Put the dates in your diary now

Landscape & Urban Design Designing your outdoor environment

A subscription to Landscape & Urban Design is essential for any Landscaping & Urban Design Professionals working within landscape design and management, garden design, the built and natural environment, public space, green space, open space and environmental sustainability.

The magazine is both inspirational and educative and showcases the very best of Landscaping, Garden Design & Urban Design, in public and private gardens as well as public spaces.

6 Issues SUBSCRIBE NOW FOR JUST

£27.00

Every monthly issue features beautiful editorial articles written by the UK’s leading landscaping professionals, and concise clear presentation of product information and is packed with: • • • • • • •

Technical advice, techniques and best practices Plants in design Garden showcases Sustainable, environmental & ethical design options Event reports Industry news & comments Designer profiles &... much, much more!

If you would like to subscribe CALL +44 (01843) 830249

ONLY £27.00 FOR 12 MONTHS OF BI-MONTHLY ISSUES

www.landud.co.uk

“It was our workforce’s recommendation that Kubota would be the best option for us. This has proved to be an excellent choice.”

Nick Eason. Grounds Maintenance Manager, Newark and Sherwood District Council.

After reviewing several manufacturers, the Newark and Sherwood District Council grounds maintenance staff were impressed with the quality and manoeuvrability of the Kubota’s zero-turn mowers tested, proving to be an ideal choice for the formal grounds, park and amenity mowing requirements.

Nick and his team of gardeners currently run a fleet of six Kubota zero-turn mowers and are delighted with their performance and reliability together with the substantial savings made on the initial cost of the mowers and their low maintenance.

TEST DRIVE A KUBOTA TODAY.

For more information or to find your local dealer Call: 01844 268 000 Visit: www.kubota.co.uk ZD SERIES

You are invited to visit

HardscapeinLondon Visit our new offices at: 59 Warwick Way, Victoria, London SW1V 1QR T: 0845 260 1748 Nearest Tube Station: Victoria (10 minute walk)

t: 0845 260 1748

INSPIRE

SELECT

S U P P LY

59

GRANITE

SANDSTONE LIMESTONE PORPHYRY

Hardscape are proud to have opened a new oďŹ&#x192;ce and showroom in the heart of London. Our showroom displays all types of hard landscaping materials and has project space to discuss your designs and specifica"ons with a member of our technical sales team.

KELLEN

CONCRETE C L AY

S L AT E

www.stockscape.co.uk

www.hardscape.co.uk

www.hardscape.co.uk

www.stockscape.co.uk

www.hardscape.co.uk

We look forward to welcoming you for an informal chat and light refreshments.

enq@hardscape.co.uk