NURTURE
TOPSOIL FIT FOR A KING Pro Landscaper takes an in-depth look into the project that won Willerby Landscapes the BALI Grand Award 2016, exploring the topsoil and subsoil specified by Tim O’Hare Associates in the prestigious regeneration of King’s Cross
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water and nutrient retention, whilst at the same time he regeneration of the King’s Cross area providing the necessary structural loading for the is a tremendous transformative project, paving. The sustainability of the soil profile was a factor using underutilised industrial land to that had to be considered when selecting topsoil for create stylish social environments and lawn areas. Most sand rootzones usually require regular open spaces. Willerby Landscapes’ involvement as applications of fertiliser to maintain nutrient levels. To contractor led to its being awarded BALI’s Grand combat this obstacle, the Award in 2016. distinctive blend prescribed for the The soil strategy for the project included a high proportion project was designed and of nutrients in an organic, specified by Tim O’Hare slow-release form, which are Associates. A number of soil naturally released over the course types were used to support the of several years. varied demands of the When going through the landscape scheme. Over Client King’s Cross Central construction element of the 10,000m3 of topsoil was used Ltd Partnership project, Willerby Landscapes had in which over 440 different to take into account the species of plants and trees are Contractor requirements of the client. The first planted. Three types of Willerby Landscapes was ensuring that construction manufactured topsoil were used had minimal environmental impact to cater for the needs of tree, Soil consultant in areas such as air and noise shrub and herbaceous planting, Tim O’Hare Associates pollution. Increasing biodiversity high-use lawn areas, and trees Supplier upon completion of the project planted in hard landscape areas. Freeland Horticulture also had to be considered, which As the planting list contained and Tarmac Topsport was achieved through working species that had varied closely with the London Wildlife demands from the soil, the main Trust. Carefully selected planting topsoil possessed specially for the gardens in King’s Cross was the first step selected properties in fertility, pH, lime status and towards this, providing a safe haven for wildlife. drainage to satisfy the full planting palette. The subsoil selected by Tim O’Hare Associates was An urban tree sand was selected to surround trees chosen for its compaction resistance and waterlogging set in hard paving – this offers high fertility and good
PROJECT DETAILS
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