The project aimed to support the wider transformation of St John Street into a greener and more accessible space in Clerkenwell. A key objective was to increase biodiversity along the street through planting and habitat creation, helping to bring ecological value to a dense city centre location. Another priority was to introduce sustainable drainage that contributes to better water management and climate resilience. The project also aimed to create a more interesting and engaging way to move through the space for the surrounding community.

The project area sits in the heart of Clerkenwell, close to Farringdon and Barbican stations as well as local community groups and a primary school. We focused on multiple points along the street to integrate greenery into the wider public realm:

• Planting over 1,500 plants
• 4 large roadside planting beds/ rain gardens
• 2 smaller supporting rain gardens
• 3 bee posts
• 12 ivy posts
• 1 community-designed bug hotel

Our approach combined a biodiversity-led planting design and habitat creation with community involvement to bring the space to life. The project was designed to increase ecological value, support pollination and uplift the space.

The public realm improvements have delivered a range of environmental and community benefits, while supporting the creation of a new green corridor through the space. A key focus has been the enhancement of rainwater management, alongside a number of other positive outcomes.