Culture Mile

Delivered in partnership with Culture Mile BID and Publica, the public realm enhancement project focused on the Culture Mile area in the City of London to connect new and existing biodiversity hotspots through urban greening. Through a series of green infrastructure works, we aimed to integrate planting and planters to deliver ecological benefits, climate resilience and an enriched urban experience for residents, workers and visitors.

To connect and strengthen pre-existing green spaces across the Culture Mile stretch and improve the public realm by introducing and improving planting schemes in the district.

We delivered greening interventions at four strategic locations including new bespoke planters, installation of drought-tolerant species and revamping of existing infrastructure to improve visual appeal, green factor and biodiversity. Locations included:

• Long Lane
• St Barts North – Old Surgery
• St Barts South – Main Entrance
• London Wall

The project brought together stakeholders including Culture Mile BID, Publica, City of London and local volunteers to create bespoke planting schemes and infrastructure. Plants included climate-resilient and pollinator-friendly species such as Brunnera, Pulmonaria, Deschampsia, Digitalis, and Malus ‘Evereste’ trees. The integration of a Hydrorock base within the  planters also helps ensure long-term plant health, improved water absorption and reduced maintenance.

This collaborative project helped foster community engagement through hands-on involvement from volunteers in the planting process. The Culture Mile BID greening initiative has strengthened biodiversity corridors within dense and urban environments, supporting pollinators and native species – adding vibrancy and colour to busy spaces for commuters, workers and the wider community.

The Culture Mile BID Greening project sets a strong foundation for future phases. The initiative marks an important step toward a greener, more resilient city.