Green space and biodiversity

Green space has been planned as an integral part of the town centre, rather than something added on afterwards. 

At Elms Field, mature trees were retained wherever possible and native planting introduced to support local wildlife. The park also includes over 3,000 m² of planting and meadow areas, creating space for nature in the town centre. 

Where trees could not be kept, their timber was reused within the park to create sculptures. 

Across the regeneration, planting has been designed to suit local conditions and thrive over the long term.  

This includes trees, rain gardens and permeable surfaces that help manage water and support the environment.  

Planting has also been chosen to support pollinators, including species such as lavender and honeysuckle, alongside features such as bird boxes for species including swifts, sparrows and house martins.