06 JULY 2021
Grosvenor has launched the final phase in the redesign of Grosvenor Square, Mayfair aimed at transforming it into an extraordinary urban garden with ground-breaking environmental credentials.
To date the engagement process, which began in 2019, has encompassed five phases of local and London-wide consultation with over 26 events involving over 2,500 people.
Across July, Grosvenor and architects Tonkin Liu are testing detailed designs for the future square which incorporate that feedback.
The proposals aim to maximise biodiversity in the square, introducing a range of new habitats for wildlife, while supporting the needs of local residents, workers and visitors.
Today London’s second largest garden square is dominated by open lawn and one species of tree. To create a more welcoming, biodiverse environment, Grosvenor is proposing:
Ed Green, Senior Development Manager, Grosvenor commented: “In redesigning Grosvenor Square, we are pioneering a new approach to private investment in public spaces. Designed, and ultimately governed collaboratively, we want to show how green spaces in cities can work harder for nature and the wellbeing of those who rely on them.
“This near 300 year old square has a rich history and we want to celebrate that by collaboratively thinking about its future role. Our design brief is based on the many conversations we’ve had over the years shaping our emphasis on enhancing biodiversity and wellbeing, play, water and heritage and we look forward to further feedback.”
Opening up the opportunity for influence to more Londoners
To create a new accessible entry point into a wider conversation around the future of green spaces in London, Grosvenor is also launching a consumer campaign to get more people involved in the design process.
The People's Petal Choice takes its cue from the planting aspects of the designs and the opportunity to create a range of habitats that could be prioritised in the square.
It asks Londoners to choose the wildflowers they would like to see in the perimeter, the shaded gardens and open oval lawn, as well as inviting them to take part in the wider redesign.
Ed Green added, “The redesign of the square is important to local residents and businesses, it’s a local landmark and for many their back garden. But it’s also an opportunity for Londoners to become involved in the future of a significant green space in the capital that too many have never had a reason to come to.
“The People’s Petal Choice is an exciting and accessible way to start that conversation with them.”
The campaign, in collaboration with the Evening Standard, runs from 5 July to 1 August.
About Grosvenor
Grosvenor is a property developer, manager and investor – we create great places where communities, business and nature thrive.
In London’s West End, we support nearly 1,000 businesses and thousands of residents and workers each day. We also invest in new neighbourhoods elsewhere in London, Liverpool and across the South of England.
With a track record of over 340 years, we are part of an international property company improving property and places across many of the world’s leading cities, promoting sustainability within the built environment and enhancing the wellbeing of our customers and communities.
We are a values-led organisation which represents the Grosvenor family. Our work in property, alongside Grosvenor’s other activities in food and agtech, rural estate management and support for philanthropic initiatives, shares a common purpose - to deliver lasting commercial, social and environmental benefit - addressing today’s needs while taking responsibility for those of future generations.
Thinking long term allows us to give equal weight to the environmental, social and commercial impact of everything that we do.
Rachel Garstang
Head of Corporate Communications, Grosvenor Property UK
+44 (0)20 7312 2341 ext.6957
rachel.garstang@grosvenor.com