This week, the City of London Corporation has received 1 Exchange Square’s plans to introduce green roofs and walls.
Green roofs and living walls act as natural air filters, with plants absorbing pollutants and CO2 while releasing oxygen through photosynthesis. In urban environments like the City of London, where air pollution is often a major concern, these features can significantly contribute to healthier air and improved quality of life.
They also support biodiversity, providing a refuge for birds, insects, and other wildlife. These features can serve as stepping stones for species to move between green spaces, promoting ecological connectivity and fostering city biodiversity.
Green roofs and living walls can also absorb, filter, and store rainwater, reducing the volume and velocity of stormwater runoff. This mitigates the risk of flooding and decreases the load on urban sewer systems, ultimately reducing the need for costly infrastructure upgrades.
They’re also visually appealing. The presence of greenery can significantly improve the aesthetics of a building. Numerous studies have demonstrated the positive impact of exposure to nature on human well-being, including reduced stress, improved mental health, and increased productivity. It’s certainly something Bishopsgate workers and residents tell us they want to see more of.
If you’d like to comment on this planning matter, you can find all the details available here.
