The vision for Nottingham’s new ‘Green Heart’ is being realised as the former Broadmarsh Shopping Centre site is transformed into green space
Officially opened in November 2024, the landscaped site provides a meeting space surrounded by trees in Nottingham’s city centre. We worked on the landscaping element of the project for Willmott Dixon on behalf of Nottingham City Council. We introduced 34 mature trees, including two Metasequoia (giant redwood) and one super mature English oak tree, which is the focal point of the site. Several thousand wetland plugs, such as marsh marigold, specimen shrubs and perennial flowers cover an acre of the site, which has been derelict following the closure of the Broadmarsh Shopping Centre.
Ben continues: “The oak tree planted on-site came with a particular challenge because of restrictions on supply and delivery due to the presence of oak processionary moth (OPM) in the UK. The solution was to import a tree that was grown from seed in southern Ireland, which falls outside of the current OPM zone, ensuring the project was undertaking its duty for the responsible movement of trees and keeping up to date with the current legislation.”
Collaboration to bring the landscape to life
Crowders Nurseries, a sister company within the RSK Group, supplied most of the plants for the greening project.
Overseeing the project at Crowders, Danny Green said: “The plant list for this project was very diverse, ensuring it provided suitable wildlife benefits while creating a modern green space that is accessible to the public. Three trees chosen by the client are the focal point of the development. The underplants, which complement these trees, consist of mature shrubs, such as dogwoods and witch hazels, flowing down to wild flower poppies and primulas, offering interest through all the seasons. There is also a diverse wetland area, encouraging further biodiversity into a busy urban area.”
Paved walkways through the planting connect the redeveloped Nottingham Central Library and Broadmarsh Bus Station building with pedestrian routes to the Old Market Square and Nottingham Castle.