Site Hoarding – An Opportunity for Nature

In the midst of cranes, scaffolding and temporary fencing, construction sites often feel like the least likely places to find nature. But what if they weren’t? What if these in-between spaces—so often overlooked—could become vibrant, biodiverse pockets of life?

At Vertical Meadow, we see site hoardings not as barriers, but as blank canvases. And we believe they hold real potential to bring nature back into the heart of our cities.

Nature in Unexpected Places

Urban development doesn’t have to mean environmental decline. In fact, it can be an opportunity to integrate nature into every layer of the built environment—even the temporary ones. Living hoardings, made from recycled clothes and designed to host wildflowers, offer a way to soften the visual and ecological impact of construction.

They’re not just decorative. These walls filter dust and noise, support pollinators, and reconnect people with seasonal change. And because they grow from seed in-situ, they reflect the natural rhythms of the landscape—changing with the seasons, regenerating over time.

Leading by Example: Codes of Construction Practice

Some local authorities are already recognising this opportunity. Westminster and Tower Hamlets have updated their Codes of Construction Practice to include requirements for green hoardings. These guidelines don’t just encourage greenery—they set clear expectations:

• Minimum coverage of living plants
• Maintenance and irrigation plans
• End-of-life reuse or recycling
• Integration into Construction Management Plans

These aren’t rigid policies, but they’re a meaningful step forward. They show that nature can—and should—be part of the construction conversation.

Voluntary Initiatives Paving the Way

Before guidelines come into play, it’s often voluntary schemes that lead the way. The Considerate Constructors Scheme, for example, rewards developers who go beyond the basics—those who prioritise sustainability, community engagement, and innovation.

Living hoardings align perfectly with these values. They demonstrate care for the local environment, offer visible CSR, and create spaces that feel more welcoming and less disruptive. And they help developers stand out—not just for what they build, but for how they build it.

Why Broader Adoption Matters

For every standout site with a living wall, there are dozens that remain bare. That’s why we’re calling on more local authorities to adopt similar guidelines. Not every borough needs to reinvent the wheel—Westminster and Tower Hamlets have already shown what’s possible.

By embedding nature into construction codes, councils can ensure:

• Consistency across developments
• Equity for communities with limited access to green space
• Accountability for environmental impact

And most importantly, they can help shift the culture—from seeing nature as optional, to seeing it as essential.