Project:  Biodiversity improvements at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust site

Organisation: The Christie NHS Foundation Trust

What was the issue?  A landlocked space confined estate, dynamically improving through modernisation, that required a considered approach to the enhancing the landscape and environment.

What action was taken? The site was transformed through careful landscaping and gardening to increase biodiversity across the site. This included examples such as: installing wildflower gardens, fruit trees, vegetable planters, bug hotels, outdoor education spaces for children, living walls, permeable concrete, cycle shelters, native plantings, and reuse of materials on site.

Significant efforts were made to enhance biodiversity and transform the site into a thriving ecosystem that supports a wide range of plant and animal species. This transformation involved a comprehensive approach to landscaping and gardening, incorporating various elements to foster biodiversity and ecological sustainability.

Wildflower gardens: One of the key initiatives was the establishment of diverse wildflower gardens across the site. These gardens are carefully designed to provide a habitat for native pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. The array of wildflowers not only adds vibrant colours but also serves as a vital food source for these important insects.

Fruit trees and vegetable planters: To encourage local wildlife and offer a sustainable source of food, fruit trees were planted throughout the area. Additionally, raised vegetable planters were integrated, promoting the growth of organic produce and attracting a variety of birds and small mammals.

Bug hotels: To support a thriving insect population, bug hotels were strategically placed around the site. These specially designed structures offer shelter and nesting opportunities for beneficial insects, including ladybugs and solitary bees.

Outdoor education spaces for children: The site was transformed into an educational haven for children. Outdoor spaces were created to engage young learners in environmental education, helping them develop a deep appreciation for the natural world and the importance of biodiversity conservation.

Living walls: Vertical gardens, or living walls, were installed to maximise greenery in limited spaces. These walls not only enhance the aesthetics but also provide additional habitats for various plants, insects, and even small vertebrates.

Permeable concrete: The use of permeable concrete in walkways and parking areas ensures that rainwater can infiltrate the soil rather than causing runoff. This not only helps recharge groundwater but also supports the growth of ground-level vegetation.

Cycle shelters: To promote eco-friendly transportation, cycle shelters were erected, encouraging people to cycle to the site and reducing the carbon footprint associated with commuting.

Native plantings: Indigenous plant species were prioritised in landscaping, as they are better adapted to the local environment and provide essential resources for native wildlife.

Reuse of materials on site: To minimise waste and environmental impact, existing materials from the site were repurposed wherever possible. This sustainable approach reduced the need for new resources and energy consumption.

Additional biodiversity initiatives: To further enrich biodiversity, birdhouses, bat boxes, and ponds were integrated into the site, creating additional habitats for a wide range of fauna. Additionally, the use of organic mulch and compost promotes healthy soil and plant growth.

These combined efforts have not only transformed the site into a lush and vibrant landscape but have also created a haven for native flora and fauna. The site now stands as a testament to the commitment to biodiversity conservation and sustainable environmental practices, serving as a model for similar projects aiming to harmonise human development with nature.

More importantly, there is a wealth of good quality evidence demonstrating the positive impact that contact with nature can have on physical and mental health. The natural environment benefits patients and staff as it contributes to the prevention of illness by increasing physical and mental wellbeing and offers people therapeutic benefits for recovery. Outdoor spaces also offer a distinct learning environment for children, contributing positively to their mental wellbeing and overall health by granting access to the natural world. A subset of children exhibit a preference for outdoor settings, demonstrating a heightened receptiveness to educational experiences in this context as opposed to indoor ones. The natural surroundings within the nursery premises serve as an indispensable asset, facilitating children’s holistic development encompassing their comprehension of the world, mathematical acumen, physical prowess, and communication and language skills.

What was the Delivering a Net Zero NHS benefit?

Enhanced biodiversity across the site.

 What are the wider benefits?

Improved green space, therapeutic benefits for patients and staff, outdoor relaxation areas, sustainability education for children, drainage management, native plantings and contribution to climate adaptation.

Key contacts and email:

William Blair – w.blair@nhs.net

Jean Wright – jean.wright8@nhs.net