Biodiversity at the Industrial Estate

Creating sustainable life from wasteland

In March 2021, global real estate service providers, JLL sought the biodiversity expertise of Ground Control , to transform a small area of wasteland, at the at an Industrial Estate site near Glasgow city centre, Scotland, into a beautiful, eco-friendly wildflower meadow.

The problem

The area had no landscaping features whatsoever and was being used as a dumping ground for debris and all kinds of waste.  If left, it would have an increasing harmful impact on the environment and health and safety.

The solution

The solution was to transform the area into a micro, wildflower meadow to be enjoyed by local wildlife and people on site.

The process

Deploying one of our specialist installation teams, the process began with erecting warning signs and guarding to create a secure work zone. Our experts cleared debris and contaminates from cavity between old and new walls. They left some rubble to create a level base and allow for drainage.

The team back filled into the cavity with three tonnes of sand.  They followed with two tonnes of screened topsoil.  Then they applied a cornfield annual seed mix of cornflower, poppy, marigold, corn cockle and corn chamomile to the soil.  They finished with a further layer of topsoil.

The result

A bold and colourful display of beautiful wildflowers appeared.  The RHS scientifically proves this type of feature to tackle the decline in bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

Video Highlights of the bees coming to the new micro, wildflower meadow

“We are so pleased to work with Ground Control on innovate solutions to enhance properties and facilities with sustainable outdoor spaces.  What a positive use and repurposing exercise of an area fit for nothing else!” Philip McSorley Group Service Delivery Manager, JLL

“This is a great example of our collaboration with JLL.  In partnership, we have converted a completely derelict area into a great environmental feature.” Marc Wilkinson, Ground National Operations Director, Ground Control

“The previously, un-landscaped industrial site, is now being enjoyed by bees and pollinators, as well as people working at or visiting the site. This just shows what can be achieved with a little investment and an open mind.” Simon Breustedt, Contracts Manager, North and Scotland, Ground Control

Ground Control’s Ground Maintenance teams attend to the site monthly, to remove weeds through the growing season to cut and disperse seeds in the Autumn.

To find out more about our award-winning grounds maintenance, design and construction services, please contact us.