The transformation of Queen's Park Canalside is well underway, bringing new greenery and accessibility to the space located in front of Queen's Park Library. Meristem have been working in partnership with Westminster City Council to enhance the area as part of the wider North Paddington Canalside Programme. The project has received funding from the Greater London Authority's Good Growth Fund, an initiative dedicated to supporting regeneration projects in London that focus on improving inclusivity and wellbeing in the built environment.
What we did:
During December 2025, our team worked hard on site to deliver the planting component of the project. Over 5 days, our team planted more than 4,000 plants and 12,000 bulbs over 4 large planting beds to frame the space and support surrounding accessibility ramps, benches, trees, and interactive features.
The planting scheme was designed to provide year-round interest, with bulbs set to bring spring colour and a range of perennials, shrubs and grasses to ensure resilience and habitat support.
- Early spring bulbs, including Camassia, Leucojum, Narcissus and Tulipa create vibrance and support pollinators in the space after winter passes.
- Summer and autumn-flowering perennials such as Aster and Rudbeckia add texture and movement to the canalside, helping to expand the structure that the evergreen shrubbery provides through colder seasons.
By lining ramps and seating areas with greenery, the design not only improves the aesthetic of the canalside but also encourages the community to spend more time enjoying the accessible outdoor space, making the canalside welcoming for both people and nature.
What the improvements will achieve
This project is about more than just planting, it's part of Westminster Council's broader vision to enhance public spaces across the borough by boosting inclusivity and encouraging people and nature to meet. The objectives include the following:
- Create better spaces for the community - The redesign of the canalside provides new seating areas opposite Queen's Park Library, encouraging passers-by, residents and library users to visit the space.
- Improved accessibility for all - Ramps, slopes, wide pathways and play features such as bug hotels have been incorporated into the design to ensure everyone can enjoy the space safely and comfortably.
- Enhanced biodiversity and landscape quality - Planting a mix of bulbs, perennials and shrubs creates vibrant habitats and attracts pollinators, ensuring consistent ecological value.
The project is part of Westminster Council’s commitment to creating sustainable, people-friendly spaces that benefit both the environment and the community. By transforming this area with inclusive design and diverse planting, the space will provide a vibrant, accessible, and resilient environment for residents and visitors for years to come.
As spring rolls around, the impact of the thousands of bulbs planted will become evident and we can't wait to see the canal come alive with colour.
