The University of Bristol’s Sloane Robinson Building at the new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus officially opened this week, following landscape and public realm design from Grant Associates.
The aim of the scheme is to transform a strategically located post-industrial site into a new green gateway to Bristol.
At the heart of the landscape is University Square, a major new public space and focal point at the entrance to the campus. From here, tree grove arrival spaces, planted terraces and social areas extend towards the riverside and floating harbour walkway, creating places to meet, study, eat and spend time outdoors.
Grant Associates worked closely with the University’s horticultural team from early design through to completion to develop the tree strategy and species selection, with regular reviews throughout the project.
More than 3,500 sq m of species-rich planting – including rain gardens, pollinator-rich planting, biodiverse roofs, native meadow and aquatic planting – creates a diverse and resilient green and blue infrastructure.
Chin Chen, associate director at Grant Associates, says:
“The Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus gave us the opportunity to rethink what the landscape of a city-centre university could be. We wanted the campus to feel rooted in Bristol — open, green and reconnecting nature with the city, rather than separated from it.
“The waterways and existing ecology gave us the starting point for this transformation journey. From there, landscape became the framework for creating places where students, staff and the wider community can meet, study, relax and spend time outdoors – embedding nature into the everyday life of the campus and the city.”
Industry experts, political figures, a meteorologist, an economist, and experts in global foresight, communication, and organisational behaviour make up the speaker lineup for the Horticultural Trades Association’s (HTA) Horticulture, The Conference, later this month.
Held at London’s Barbican Centre on Thursday 24 September 2026, Horticulture, The Conference aims to inform and support environmental horticulture businesses as they prepare for the future.
Elia Johnston, director of membership and marketing at the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), said:
“Delegates are in for a treat this year, with what I believe to be our strongest lineup yet. It is important for us to create a programme that features a wide range of guest speakers who can cover a full spectrum of topics, such as our changing climate, the value of green spaces, and the trends and opportunities for businesses that can support future growth.
“We take pride in the opportunities we provide for our delegates to network with colleagues from across the sector, and we are confident that this year’s programme will inform, entertain, and support environmental horticulture businesses while inspiring them to take action and continue to thrive.”
The Speakers and Sessions
Signals from the Future
Pippa Goodman, leading expert in global foresight from NextUp
Goodman, a leading expert in global foresight from NextUp, will cover an in-depth look at sociological, technological, legal and environmental trends, emerging risks, as well as the opportunities and what they mean for the future of UK environmental horticulture businesses.
Unpacking the Economy: the headwinds and tailwinds set to affect horticulture
Matthew Swannell, associate director at Oxford Economics
Swannell will explore the current state of the UK economy, key economic indicators to watch over the short and medium term, and their implications for environmental horticulture. He will also examine likely trends in consumer and public spending, labour market conditions, and how these are likely to affect opportunities and risks for the industry.
The Value of Green Spaces – Launch
Laura Loveridge and Samantha Smith, The HTA’s market research manager & policy and public affairs manager
The third report in the HTA’s ‘Value of’ series. Drawing on new public polling and evidence from across the UK, the report demonstrates how green spaces can help tackle extreme heat, flooding and pressure on the NHS, while supporting healthier communities, biodiversity and economic growth. It also highlights inequalities in access to green space and sets out an eight-point action plan for the government to better protect, expand, fund and integrate green infrastructure.
Creating the Climate for Green Spaces
Laura Tobin, Fellow of the Royal Meteorological, Baroness Natalie Bennett, Green Party Peer, Jonathan Whittemore, commercial and business manager at Johnsons Nurseries Ltd and chair of the HTA’s Ornamentals Management Committee
Tobin will deliver the opening address. With her expertise and dedication to weather and climate science, she will offer insights into our future climate. Tobin will then join a panel discussion. The panel of leading voices from politics, horticulture and meteorology will be moderated by Jennifer Pheasey, the HTA’s Director of Policy and Public Affairs, and will explore how green infrastructure can help the UK adapt to a changing climate, build resilience and improve our quality of life.
Employment & People – Generations at Work
Dr Anthony Klotz, professor of organisational behaviour at the UCL School of Management in London
Klotz will explore the forces reshaping today’s workforce, from evolving employee expectations and engagement challenges to workplace culture and retention. He will share practical insights on creating more sustainable, fulfilling workplaces and building a workforce equipped to thrive.
In conversation with…
Fran Barnes, the HTA’s chief executive, Shazia Ejaz,director of campaigns at the Recruitment and Employment Federation (REC) and Henil Vashi, horticultural advisor at Robin Tacchi Plants.
This session will blend external expertise with sector‑specific insight, covering topics such as what Gen Z expects, what older generations need, and how the sector’s business culture can evolve.
Other speakers
Jenny Riddell-CarpenterMP, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)
Conservative MP Robbie Moore, shadow minister for environment, Food and Rural Affairs, who will reflect on the value and importance of environmental horticulture in individual political updates.
Rounding off the day will be Ben Hanlin, whowill close the conference with his keynote speech. As an award-winning speaker who helps businesses boost performance through better communication and stronger human connection, Ben will engage and energise delegates and leave a lasting impression.
Garden and landscape designer, James Scott FSGLD MBALI of The Garden Company,shares his top six tips fornatural stone.
1. Design hard landscaping around function Every project begins with understanding how clients want to use their garden. Only then can the extent of hard landscaping be determined. For example, terraces should be sized around activities, furniture and circulation rather than simply filling available space. A dining terrace need only be large enough to accommodate its intended use.
2. Prioritise balance, not quantity Naturalistic gardens often contain less paving, but every hard landscape element must work hard to provide structure, movement and a sense of place. Not every journey through a garden requires expansive paving. Thoughtfully designed paths often provide a more appropriate solution, reducing the visual impact of hard landscaping while enhancing the experience of moving through the space.
3. Design paths with purpose Naturalistic gardens are best experienced from within. Paths guide movement through the landscape, revealing seasonal interest and shifting perspectives. Every route should lead somewhere meaningful, whether a seating area, sculpture, specimen tree or other focal point. Paths should feel generous enough to use comfortably, without dominating the space. Well-placed destinations encourage people to pause and engage with the garden.
4. Blur the boundary between hard and soft landscaping Where paving is used, it should integrate seamlessly with the planting. Introducing planting pockets into terrace layouts, surrounding seating areas with generous borders and allowing planting to soften edges all help create an immersive experience. Use gravel and mineral mulches, planting pockets and generous borders to soften edges and create seamless transitions throughout the garden. The result is a garden that feels more natural without compromising functionality.
5. Balance sustainability with practical realities Consider local, reclaimed and reused materials where possible, weighing environmental benefits with performance, availability and budget to achieve the best overall outcome.
6. Visit quarries and work closely with suppliers A deeper understanding of stone sourcing and processing leads to more informed specification and better project outcomes. Having worked with many of the same natural stone specialists since establishing my practice in 1991, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how different stones are formed, extracted and processed, enabling more confident material selection.
Experienced suppliers can also identify opportunities to use quarry surplus and offcuts for bespoke features, such as modern rockeries, improving both sustainability and value. These discussions often uncover creative solutions that benefit all parties.
Make sure you read the September issue of Pro Landscaper magazine for James Scott’s trends piece where he describes why natural stone and naturalistic gardens make the perfect pair.
Following the government’s announcement to protect consumers from cowboy builders and rogue bailiffs, TrustMark is announcing a new collaboration with Trusted Payments. The consumer-protection, app-based service aims to help TrustMark Registered Businesses give their customers an easy, secure and transparent way to manage home improvements, from quote to completion.
Features include automatic contracts, project payment plans, and automatic invoice chasing, plus access to the Dispute Resolution Ombudsman for unresolved issues, including non-payment, snagging and the handover process.
From October 2026, it will also automatically raise invoices into QuickBooks or Xero. Businesses can manage the whole process by WhatsApp, email or website.
Simon Ayers MBE, chief executive officer of TrustMark, says:
“Last Friday’s move by government was a welcome and clear signal of intent – to protect consumers, champion reputable traders, and help people spend their money with real confidence and security. Aftercare and resolution when something goes wrong matters, but just as important, and often less visible, is what happens when everything goes right and it’s simply time to pay. That’s where a huge amount of consumer and trade anxiety sits. Consumers pay up front with no security in place or warranty protection, and tradespeople doing good work are having to chase payment.
“The best form of consumer protection is getting the job right the first time. Giving businesses a payment system that’s simple to use, backed up by proper dispute management and workmanship guarantees, means they can focus on what they do best – quality technical installations. Protecting consumers and supporting them through the complaints process in the context of poor installations in their homes is vital to the delivery of trust in the sector. We’re proud to be playing our part alongside Trusted Payments in making that happen.”
The government’s announcement aims to clampdown on cowboy builders and rogue bailiffs.
Businesses who sign up to the Approved Code will be able to demonstrate that they meet higher standards of customer service, transparency and dispute resolution. There will also be a new system to protect people’s money during building projects with payments directly linked to key project milestones.
Wright Landscapes and Origin Green-tech were part of a Build-to-Rent regeneration development in Trafford, Manchester.
Lumina Village forms part of a wider 120-acre civic quarter regeneration masterplan, delivering approximately 4,000 homes alongside commercial space, infrastructure, and an enhanced public realm.
The Podium phase is a key part of this regeneration and comprises a 440-home Build-to-Rent development, including apartments and townhouses, with extensive podium landscaping, a half-acre rooftop garden for residents, and 5.4 acres of public realm.
Origin Green-tech supported Wright Landscapes with the supply of 350m³ of Green-tree Intensive Roof Garden substrate for the podium and roof level landscape construction.
The roof and podium structures required a specialist growing medium that would meet strict technical criteria, including:
Reduced load to comply with structural loading limits
Consistent drainage performance for roof build-ups
Long-term plant health and rooting stability
Suitability for intensive and semi-intensive roof planting systems
Compliance with the approved landscape specification and design intent
Joe Jeavons, group marketing manager for Domis Construction, says,
“Completing Lumina Village is a significant achievement for everyone involved in delivering the scheme. As one of Trafford’s most ambitious developments, we are proud to have delivered this project alongside Glenbrook Property and to see it now forming a lasting part of Trafford’s regeneration.
The commitment shown throughout has been exceptional, and the collaboration, technical expertise and reliable supply chain support have all played an important role in the successful delivery of the podium and roof landscape elements.”
Midlands based commercial landscaping specialist Perennial Landscapes is entering its next phase of expansion and has announced the appointment of a new managing director to drive this growth.
Tony Cammiss has been appointed the new managing director and will oversee the strategic direction of the business, with a focus on sustainable growth, strengthening client relationships and investing in the people who continue to drive Perennial Landscapes’ success.
The appointment comes at a time of continued investment for the business, following several significant contract awards and an increasing demand for high-quality commercial landscaping solutions across sectors including industrial, logistics, healthcare, residential and commercial developments.
Cammiss says:
“I’m delighted to be joining Perennial Landscapes at such an exciting stage in its journey. The business has built an outstanding reputation for delivering quality projects and developing long lasting relationships with clients. I look forward to working alongside the talented team to build on these strong foundations, expand our reach and continue delivering exceptional landscapes across the UK.”
Thomas Holland, managing director of Perennial Landscapes, says:
“Cammiss’ appointment marks an exciting milestone for the business. As we continue to grow, his leadership and industry experience will help strengthen our offering while maintaining the values and high standards that our clients have come to expect. We’re excited about what the future holds.”
Pro Landscaper Premium Plus once again hosted its Landscaping Leadership Forum, across two days at Old Thorns Hotel & Resort on 2-3 July 2026.
The annual event brings together businesses across the sector and the supply chain to create a networking and learning space for leaders and their teams.
1. Skills shortage
Aidan Bell, chief executive at idverde, noted that the landscaping industry will be one of the most AI safe industries, as AI continues to progress. It could therefore be beneficial for businesses to proposition themselves as such when promoting the industry. He stated we need to “make the industry sexy.” John Wyer, chief executive at Bowles & Wyer and vice chair of the SGLD noted that AI is a priority for its members alongside climate resilience, pressures of fees and partnerships with contractors.
The panel all discussed the importance of promoting the industry, with Jennifer Pheasey, director of policy & public affairs at the HTA explaining the importance of retelling the story of what the industry does in a language the Government understands – a key purpose of the All-Party Parliamentary Gardening and Horticulture Group. Ian Phillips, chair of the Landscape Institute’s Policy and Public Affairs Committee, shared the LI’s research which found nine in ten people want greener neighbourhoods. The findings highlighted that landscape is seen as integral to what people value rather than as an afterthought once buildings and roads have been planned.
2. Managing disruption and volatility
Ben Butler, senior policy manager, Federation of Small Businesses explained that half of small businesses aren’t getting paid on time. Paul New, partner, Azets advised finding out what your personal inflation looks like. He also suggested traffic lighting your clients with red representing those who query every single invoice or change payments. Butler stressed that businesses can charge interest on payments that are late. Butler did share that the Government has proposed to ban the practice of deducting and withholding of retention payments in construction to protect smaller firms from non-payment. New stressed that, ultimately, if you aren’t being paid you should down tools. The panel also stressed the importance of credit insurance which protects businesses against losses from unpaid invoices.
3. Urban greening factor
Wyer noted the opportunities when it comes to Urban Greening Factor, specifically in commercial projects. He also explored the opportunities for greening around offices as companies seek to encourage staff back into the office and create spaces they want to be in.
Phillips noted the friction and slowness in the planning system, though, as staff turnover in the planning system appears fairly high. Other panellists noted that it’s getting harder to get jobs across the line. The panellists discussed the benefits of diversifying in this current market, but Wyer warned that businesses should either launch a new product in a market they are already established in, or launch an established product in a new market but not both.
4. Introducing HR into a business
The panel also discussed the presence of HR with Jacob Berry, managing director of Refined Landscapes, explaining the new process since the introduction of HR personnel. The audience joined in the discussion with some noting that it makes processes more complex, others expressing that they felt HR was against them and others explaining it made them feel exposed. While others in the audience stressed that it means a business can rest easy knowing it is following the correct processes.
5. Implementing technology in your business
Colin Smith, managing director at Land Technology, talked through the businesses implementation of Re-Flow. Smith explained how it had made the teams more efficient. Previously they had been using an Excel spreadsheet and Smith says the amount of time this took up was “ridiculous” for what it provided. They also needed to have the records for compliance and invoicing but were feeling more under pressure in the process.
Piloting Re-Flow with one team, they ensured this wasn’t just a selection of younger members so that everyone understood the process. Smith explains that teams took to the new system faster than expected and that there was a marked shift in the culture. With an easier way to upload before, during and after images accountability became visible and standards improved across the business. Communication was also clearer.
Data has also been a “game-changer” with Re-Flow providing daily reports. Data is instantly captured and easily extracted for valuations. This data can also help challenge repeat issues, without conflict with clients because it’s data driven.
6. UK construction landscape
Laurence Stone, senior engagement manager at CITB, explained that UK construction output is expected to dip slightly in 2026. Short-term weakness is linked to low confidence, cost pressures and global uncertainty. But medium-term growth is expected across all areas – including public new housing and private new housing – driven by housing, infrastructure, repair and maintenance. Stone explained the strongest growth is in public housing, infrastructure and private housing.
When it comes to workers, Stone states 41,200 extra each year with the highest demand volume in senior managers, professional and technical roles and office-based roles. Demand for skilled people is also rising due to the 1.5m homes target, and, Stone explains, a clear 10-year pipeline of major infrastructure projects.
7. What does good storytelling look like?
Lawrence Stubbings, actor, coach and associate director at Talik & Co gave his advice for storytelling to seize control and reinforce value. He noted that, quoting Warren Buffet, “learning public speaking will improve your worth by 50%”. His three tips for this were:
Passion – share your enthusiasm, invite the audience to join you and smile. He stressed “your energy introduces you before you even speak”.
Clarity – be clear about your message, keep your gestures open and deliberate and have a good volume, tone and calrity to your voice.
Rehearsal – repeat, reflect and refine.
He stressed that the most important story you will tell is the story you tell yourself.
Day two hosted the iconic Pro Landscaper Golf Challenge, with several attendees taking part. This year saw Wildflower Co come out on top for the second year running. The individual competition was another close affair with Kevin Way representing Cube1994 winning with a score of 37 pipping two others (Olly Hewetson-Brown from Wildflower Co and Laurence Thor from Thor Trees) who finished joint second with 36 points.
Pro Landscaper Premium Plus is once again hosting its Landscaping Leadership Forum, which will take place across two days this year at Old Thorns Hotel & Resort on 2-3 July 2026.
The annual event brings together businesses across the sector and the supply chain to create a networking and learning space for leaders and their teams. Pro Landscaper Premium Plus has revealed the full agenda ahead of the forum.
Day one will include the unveiling of the State of the Nation industry research survey to the entire landscaping industry.
The day will continue with talks from business experts as well as a drinks reception and networking dinner with a guest speaker, David Dodd owner and managing director of The Outdoor Room.
Registration is open from 12.30pm.
Full agenda
Pro Landscaper State of Nation Industry research – What’s on the boardroom agenda?
Practical and strategic insight on some of the biggest opportunities, challenges and priorities for business and the sector.
What does the research really mean? And what can attendees take-away that will be key for business and will give (or maintain) competitive edge.
Host: Rachael Forsyth, editor, Pro Landscaper UK
Panel:
Aidan Bell chief executive, idverde
Jennifer Pheasey, director of policy & public affairs, HTA
John Wyer, chief executive, Bowles & Wyer
Productivity and people
Finding capacity without hiring – Colin Smith, managing director, Land Technology
Case study on implementing technology in your business
How else can I develop my people? – Laurence Stone, Senior Engagement Manager, CITB
CITB initiatives for the wider construction sector to address skills shortages and how the landscape contractors can access programmes
Advocacy
Three top tips on storytelling to seize control and reinforce value – Lawrence Stubbings, actor, coach and associate director at Talik & Co
Managing disruption and volatility
Looking at what’s on the horizon and the action you can take to ensure your business is resilient.
What and where might any potential impact be? How can businesses get a grip on cashflow and payments? And how can new legislation support our sector?
Host: Phil Jones, founder of Appletree Bay Consultancy
Panel:
Paul New, partner, Azets
Ben Butler, senior policy manager, Federation of Small Businesses
Jacob Berry, managing director, Refined Landscapes
An industry bursting with talent, BALI Chalk Fund has been on a mission since 1975 to support and develop the landscaping community. Founded by Jean Chalk, in memory of her husband, owner of Gavin Jones Ltd. and founding member of the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI), Geoffrey Chalk, the Fund operates thanks to donations and fundraising activities.
Funding its annual student enrichment programme and top regional and national student awards, the Fund works closely with BALI’s GoLandscape, land-based colleges and training providers to maximise student development and readiness for the work environment.
In recognition of the more hidden skillsets across the landscaping industry, the Fund is on a hunt to find untapped talent with its Landscape Open Mic & Karaoke Night on 1 October 2026. Hosted at the Spice of Life Bar in Soho, London, secret stars will have the chance to perform on the same stage as the likes of Bob Dylan, The Who and Sex Pistols.
Lynn Hunter, who leads marketing and communications at the Fund, says the event aligns with “what we are truly about, in terms of nurturing talent, trying to build new skills and shining a spotlight on future stars – it just seemed to resonate with me.”
Flag-flyer and co-organiser of the event, former BALI director, current BALI technician officer, BALI Chalk Fund trustee and proprietor at NAG Solutions Richard Gardiner explains the importance of the Fund:
“The bulk of our grant giving now is to do with trying to establish basic work-ready skills that the industry needs. It’s probably more important now than it ever was.
“It was almost a luxury before, and it’s now essential to help bridge that gap between what the colleges are able to deliver on the resources they have, and what both employers and the industry needs.”
When it was initially founded in 1975, the Fund was set up as an extracurricular reward for top students, who were given bursaries for travelling to learn and expand their horizons. Now, it still inspires students with annual awards, such as The Student of the Year competition.
Now bigger than ever and rewarding another nine regional winners in 2026, the Fund has received more than double the amount of applications in comparison to last year. Regional winning students will receive a certificate and £100 and are then automatically entered into the running for the National Awards. National winners and colleges will receive £500 and an invitation to the BALI National Landscape Awards to receive their recognition on the most prestigious of industry platforms.
Sponsored by Bristol-based Elmtree Landscapes, the event intends to bring the industry together in a more relaxed setting, while raising vital funds that pursue the next generation of landscapes.
Priced at £50, including food and a drink, tickets are available to buy now. If you would like to perform (or nominate a colleague), you can register here.
There is a common misconception that building show gardens is glamorous. People see the finished photographs, the television coverage, the medals, the celebrities walking through the gardens, and the crowds admiring the finished result. What they rarely see is the pressure, sacrifice, and logistical nightmare that often sits behind every successful show garden.
Having spent 14 years building show gardens whilst simultaneously running a landscaping business and a consultancy company, I can honestly say it is one of the most rewarding experiences our industry can offer. At the same time, it can also be one of the most challenging.
A show garden does not arrive at a convenient time. It arrives regardless of how busy your order book is, how many clients are waiting for projects to start, how many reports need to be written, or how many quotations need pricing. The reality is that while you are organising materials, coordinating suppliers, managing transport, arranging accommodation, attending planning meetings, and solving problems on a show build, your business at home continues.
The phone still rings. Clients still require updates. Staff still need managing. Invoices still need to be paid. Projects still need to be delivered.
For many contractors, the greatest challenge is not actually building the garden itself. It’s maintaining the business’s momentum while key team members are committed elsewhere for weeks at a time.
Financially, show gardens can also be difficult. Whilst sponsors and suppliers play a crucial role, there are always hidden costs that nobody sees. Labour, accommodation, fuel, transport, machinery, additional site visits, unforeseen issues, and the countless hours spent planning and coordinating all add up quickly. Very few people appreciate just how much work is carried out before ground is even broken on site. Then there is the physical and mental strain.
Show gardens are built to immovable deadlines. Assessing, judging and showing the opening date does not change because of poor weather, delayed deliveries, staff shortages, or material problems. Every contractor who has worked on a major show garden will understand the long days, early starts, late finishes, and pressure that inevitably builds as judging approaches; tempers can often fray.
Yet despite all of this, people continue to return year after year. Why?
Because show gardens offer something that normal contracting work rarely can. They push standards higher. They encourage innovation. They create opportunities to work alongside some of the best designers, suppliers, and contractors in the country. They expose teams to construction techniques, materials, and logistical challenges that are rarely encountered on domestic projects. Most importantly, they develop people.
I have seen young landscapers arrive on show builds with limited experience and leave with a completely different level of confidence, understanding, and professionalism. Working under pressure alongside experienced contractors accelerates learning in a way few training courses can replicate.
Show gardens also provide opportunities for businesses that extend far beyond the event itself. Many contractors secure future work, develop long-term supplier relationships, gain media exposure, and establish industry credibility through their involvement. In many cases, the benefits continue for years after the show has finished.
Perhaps the greatest positive, however, is the sense of achievement.
When you stand back after weeks of planning, coordination, problem-solving, and hard physical work, and see a garden completed to an exceptional standard, there is a level of satisfaction that is difficult to describe. There is also an immense pride in knowing that a group of people have come together to create something extraordinary within an incredibly short period of time.
Show gardens are not easy. They test businesses. They test finances. They test relationships. They test endurance. But they also raise standards, develop skills, create opportunities, and inspire the wider industry.
Looking back, whilst there have certainly been moments when I questioned my own sanity during a build, I would not change the experience. The challenges are significant, but so too are the rewards.
Also, be warned, RHS shows are addictive. I’ve retired more times than Alan Sargent – slight exaggeration, but you get the drift.
In an industry that is constantly evolving, show gardens remain one of the few places where creativity, craftsmanship, teamwork, and sheer determination come together on a public stage.
For those considering taking the leap into show garden construction, my advice is simple: go in with your eyes open, plan thoroughly, surround yourself with good people, and be prepared for one of the toughest yet most rewarding experiences of your career. Few things in life are as exhilarating or as difficult as winning a gold medal, especially at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which is by far the pinnacle of landscaping and design achievements.
Plans are being put in place for Chelsea 2027, but more importantly, I’m consulting on the Macmillan Cancer Support: The Nascent Shade Garden at RHS Badminton with Artisan Landscapes, Will Cooke and designer Elle Arnett. Then it’s straight to RHS Sandringham with sponsors RNIB, designer and best friend Paul Hervey Brookes and my own team. Yes, I’m probably a show garden addict.
Read Gareth Wilson’s latest article in the June issue of Pro Landscaper magazine here.
St Mary’s Parsonage, a city-centre neighbourhood in Manchester, is set to undergo a complete revamp to improve its public realm and connectivity.
Manchester City Council is on the hunt for a multidisciplinary team to shape the coordinated public realm and movement strategy, which is set to deliver over 1.2million sq ft of commercial space support over 10,000 jobs, hundreds of new homes and new hotel provision.
The transformation is anchored by the major redevelopment of the former Kendals department store building in Deansgate. Christened the ‘Kendals District’, plans have recently ben unveiled by Relentless Developments — the property company co-founded by Gary Neville.
To support the growth within St Mary’s Parsonage, the council looks to bring forward a cohesive approach to maximise the potential for the spaces between the buildings, ensuring new development creates a more attractive, accessible neighbourhood with high-quality public spaces.
Councillor Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, comments on the revamp:
“We believe this part of our city centre has a huge amount of potential, but it needs unlocking. So it’s important that as a Council we can sew together the various developments to create a cohesive neighbourhood that puts people at the forefront, alongside excellent public spaces, green and blue assets and active travel opportunities.”
The Kendals building redevelopment has been accelerated by an £44m investment through the Good Growth Fund, acting as a key driver for the future of the overall neighbourhood.
Sue Payne, managing director for Quality & Service (Q&S) says,
“We are proud to support this important initiative. The landscape and horticulture sector has so much to offer from technical expertise and sustainability-led to scientific thinking with real-world impact. It is vital that we showcase these green skills and opportunities more effectively to the next generation.”
Other partners include Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA), the Chartered Institute of Horticulture (CIH) Provender Nurseries, British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI), RBGE, Kew and Horticultural Trade Association (HTA).
New Scientist Live is taking place from 10-12 October at the Excel London. For more information, contact Christina Walker.
Embracing his new role opportunity with Northern Landscape Supplies, George Barton hopes to act as a spearhead in growing the company and diversifying its portfolio.
A dedicated division of East Riding Horticulture Ltd, Northern Landscape Supplies combines over 30 years of industry experience with sector-specific expertise to support contractors, local authorities, forestry organisations and environmental consultancies across the UK. Headed up by head of commercial Hugh Barlow and business development manager Arron Grange, the company acts as an expansion into the forestry and landscaping industry.
Founded in 1989 by Alistair Barlow, the family-run business intends to remain independent, whilst expanding across the industry and attracting new clients and customers.
Grange and Barton first worked together at Green-tech, creating a strong working bond that has carried over to Northern Landscape Supplies. A two-man sales team, the pair utilise their familiarity every day with plans to bring in a couple more staff members over the next year or so.
Barton, who started his role as national landscape and forestry manager in January 2026, says, “it was nice to be recognised for my hard work and then given this opportunity by Hugh [Barlow and Arron [Grange].”
Not only is his new role much closer to home, but Barton looks forward to the progression he’s now capable of since his transition. Not only is he building relationships for the company, he’s involved in the buying and marketing of the company, which is something he’s not explored before.
“I’m growing more relationships with more people and suppliers, which I’m really enjoying.”
In 2023, Barton picked up a 30 Under 30: The Next Generation Award, just one year after Grange picked up his. He reflects on the acknowledgement:
“Initiatives like 30 Under 30 are a really good way of promoting younger people and keeping them in the industry. This is an industry where there is development for the growth within the space and become a major part in it.”
The award-winning duo are looking to diversify Northern Landscape Supplies as a means of future-proofing the company and eventually creating a space for young people as they enter the industry. Barton also mentions the recent introduction of the turf-side of the company. From sports pitches and lawn line marking, East Riding Horticulture is beginning to cover all bases across the industry.
The duo, who “bounce off each other,” says Barton, are continuously supporting Barlow as much as they can. “We want to become the main part of East Riding Horticulture,” he adds, which starts from building a small team, growing internally and operationally while working with new and current accounts.
Since the new arm of the company has been built, it has been a learning curve, admits Barton, but the essence of trust from high management enables him to make quick and strategic decisions in the pursuit of growing the company further.
Having never managed another employee before, Barton looks forward to the challenge as him and Grange grow their own team. The short-term goal is “to get a couple of new members of staff under myself,” explains Barton, and through natural means, one day work up the career ladder even further.
People from across the entire industry, from garden designers to landscapers and suppliers, are being urged to take part in the State of the Nation industry research survey.
With submissions closing on Saturday 31 May, the research will be utilised in creating key industry insight that can be used to prioritise and realise growth opportunities alongside navigating challenges.
Day one of the recently announced Landscaping Leadership Forum, hosted by Pro Landscaper Premium Plus, will include the unveiling of the survey. Those taking part will be in the chance of winning one of three complimentary tickets to the forum. Find out more information on the 2-day event in June: Landscaping Leadership Forum.
Taking approximately 10 minutes to complete, the survey can be accessed here.
Parkinson’ UK – A Garden for Every Parkinson’s Journey. Credit: Stephen Studd
After another busy year of garden designers, garden enthusiasts and the general public gathering at RHS Chelsea Flower Show flies by, the People’s Choice votes are now in.
Parkinson’s UK – A Garden for Every Parkinson’s Journey scooped BBC/RHS People’s Choice Best Show Garden, a space made for those living with Parkinson’s and their families.
The garden, also awarded with a Silver medal, was designed by garden designer, writer, podcaster and TV presenter Arit Anderson and built by Landscape Associates. It was also curated alongside 15 people living with Parkinson’s intended to evoke an emotional and sensory response.
Featuring elements from Accoya, the sustainable timber supplier enabled architectural detailing within the garden.
During an emotional presentation between Dame Mary Berry and Anderson at the show, the designer thanks her sister for sharing her story to the public. She adds:
“Thank you to this amazing charity. We just want to help people that have got Parkinson’s. I know medals are important, but not everything that glitters is gold – but this is [the award].”
The garden is being relocated to the John Radcliffe Hospital for second life beyond the show.
Gold-medal adorned Trussell’s Together Garden, designed by Rob Hardy & Co and built by Peter Gregory Landscapes, picked up RHS People’s Choice Small Show Garden.
Garden designer Melanie Hick and contractor Phil Sutton Landscapes was voted People’s Choice within the All About Plants category for the Silver-award winning The Bat Conservation Trust’s Nocturnal Garden.
The Balcony/Container People’s Choice Award has been given to the Alzheimer’s Society: Microbes and Minds Garden, designed by Tina Worboys and built by Big Fish Landscapes.
