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    News

    Beyond a Green Roof: An Inspiring Urban Transformation

    December 10th, 2024

    Milton Keynes frequently ranks among the UK’s greenest cities. Committed to becoming carbon-negative by 2050, the city council is driving forward innovative initiatives to maintain this accolade. Among these strategies is the promotion of green roofs, encouraging developers, businesses, and homeowners to convert underused flat rooftops into biodiverse havens.

    One standout initiative is The Green Roof Project, spearheaded by Bridgman & Bridgman, renowned specialists in “gardens in the sky.” This socially responsible and eco-friendly programme showcases the immense potential of green infrastructure within urban spaces.

    A Community-Centric Vision

    Initially launched as a temporary initiative atop Saxon Court, an old council office building, the project later moved to the roof of the new state-of-the-art YMCA building, less than a mile away. The Green Roof Project goes beyond aesthetics, offering a broader impact. YMCA residents have been given training and certification in green roof installation and maintenance, enabling them to gain valuable skills. These living roofs also provide residents access to activities like growing fruits and vegetables, beekeeping, and learning about biodiversity, which significantly enhance mental wellness and quality of life.

    The project has also opened doors for numerous traineeships and work experience opportunities, cementing its positive influence on local employment and the community.

    The Role of Wallbarn’s M-Tray

    A crucial factor in relocating the living roof was Wallbarn’s modular M-Tray system, a game-changing solution for green roofs. Designed as a lightweight and practical option, M-Tray ensures all the essential components of a living roof – from drainage to plants – are contained within single, one-man lift trays. Thanks to this system, Bridgman & Bridgman seamlessly moved the green roof from Saxon Court to the YMCA with minimal disturbance to the vegetation, a process that would have been almost impossible with traditional roll-out systems.

    Chris Bridgman underlined the importance of M-Tray, stating, “It allowed us to quickly lift and transport. It’s incredibly unique in its versatility. With M-Tray, we can transform rooftops overnight.”

    Celebrating Progress

    On World Green Roof Day, the YMCA celebrated the success of their rooftop initiative with a special community lunch. Wallbarn directors Julian and Alec Thurbin joined city dignitaries and project partners to witness the flourishing rooftop environment. The once-empty rooftop had been transformed into a vibrant habitat for pollinators and insects, offering YMCA residents a safe and inviting space to unwind.

    Julian Thurbin reflected, “We’ve watched this project evolve, and now, years later, the M-Tray system is thriving with beautiful sedum and wildflowers. It’s a testament to its versatility and sustainability.”

    About the M-Tray System

    Wallbarn’s M-Tray system is a pre-fabricated green roof solution prioritising quality, efficiency, and ease of use. Each tray contains scientifically developed substrates and carefully selected plants, ensuring high-quality results with minimal waste. The system is designed for simple installation and removal, making it ideal for most flat roofs.

    Weighing just 25kg per tray with built-in hand grips and secure connectors, M-Tray requires minimal effort to set up. Rounded corners prevent sharp edges, while strategically placed drainage holes retain enough water to nourish plants without affecting neighbouring trays.

    A Pillar of Urban Sustainability

    The Green Roof Project has become a symbol of Milton Keynes’ drive towards a more sustainable and biodiverse city. Councillor Jenny Wilson-Marklew, former Cabinet Member for Climate and Sustainability, summed up its importance by saying, “Green roofs are invaluable for promoting biodiversity and helping us reach our environmental goals. We are committed to making Milton Keynes the greenest city in the world, and green roofs will play a crucial role in achieving this vision.”

    Inspiring a Greener Future

    This project illustrates how green roofs are more than an architectural feature. They represent a sustainable urban solution that benefits communities, supports biodiversity, and aligns with ambitious environmental goals. By turning neglected spaces into productive, flourishing environments, initiatives like The Green Roof Project inspire cities to reimagine urban living and build for a greener, healthier future.

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