New Oxford Street

Meristem Design, in collaboration with the Central District Alliance (CDA), has completed a transformative project along the bustling New Oxford Street, London. Introducing 17 powder-coated steel planters to the London road, the project aims to enhance the overall area, increase urban greening and improve biodiversity. 

As part of CDA’s ongoing ‘Grey to Green’ initiative to increase greening, encourage active travel, improve biodiversity and air quality, the planters aim to improve the pedestrian experience by introducing a new green corridor, bringing more greenery and providing a green buffer between pedestrians and vehicles to reduce exposure to air pollution. 

17 powder-coated steel planters filled with over 100 resilient plants, stretching along the pavement.

As part of the new green gateway, Meristem Design planted over 100 flowers, shrubs and trees in the steel planters including the following species: 

• Nepeta x faassenii Purrsian Blue
• Vinca minor atropurpurea
• Tiarella Spring Symphony
• Pinus nigra Marie Bregeon
• Salvia vert. Purple Rain
• Achillea Apple Blossom
• Achillea Cerise Queen
• Verbena off. grandiflora Bampton

Integrating Hydrorock®

To help enhance water retention and absorption capabilities of the planters, Hydrorock® technology was placed within the planters as a more sustainable solution to traditional shingle. More efficient and made from 100% natural rock, the Hydrorock® can retain up to 94% water helping to keep the plants healthy and vibrant.

Recognising the growing pressures of climate change, CDA, the Business Improvement District for Holborn and Clerkenwell in collaboration with Camden Council and Cross River Partnership (CRP) have highlighted the importance of environmental sustainability and people’s relationship with nature.

With a greater emphasis on people’s quality of life and wellbeing, time spent outdoors is more important than ever. Not only making the street more green and attractive, the planters support the area to look more clean, safe and welcoming, benefitting local businesses and residents.

Through implementing the new green corridor along New Oxford Street this improves pedestrian experience and enhances the public realm by encouraging a healthy and pollinator friendly ecosystem. The planters bring more greenery and colour to the street and provide a green buffer between pedestrians and vehicles to help to reduce exposure to air pollution.