Transforming Horsham Park
Location: Horsham Park, Horsham
Product used: Native Enriched Wildflower Turf™, Landscape 34 Wildflower Turf™ & Species Rich Wildflower Turf™ & Wildflower Spring Bulbs
Project Size: 350m²
Project Overview
Back in 2021, Horsham District Council embarked on a project to transform Horsham Park. Driven by a vision to enhance biodiversity and improve accessibility for visitors in the area, the park’s pond and surrounding areas were revitalised in a two-phase project. Whilst the initial phase of the project focused on the pond itself, including de-silting a new “Hedgehog Highway” fence, and selective tree thinning, the second phase centered around redesigning the public access areas. A key element of this redesign was the creation of wildflower meadow areas to add colour and boost the park’s ecological health. With the help of Wildflower Turf Ltd, five new wildflower meadow areas were developed.
The Solution
The public access area surrounding Horsham Park Pond was in need of a refresh. A steep, unsafe ramp and crumbling pond wall posed safety concerns, whilst overgrown shrubs provided habitat for unwanted visitors. The council aimed to create a safer, more welcoming space for visitors. This involved removing the hazardous ramp and wall and replacing them with a level viewing area and a sturdy new pond wall. Shrubs were removed and trees were selectively thinned, allowing more light to reach the pond. New paths were designed to meet the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) standards, ensuring accessibility for all. The health of the park’s iconic willow tree was also safeguarded.
Beyond these improvements, Horsham District Council was committed to boosting biodiversity and so five new wildflower meadow areas were introduced to the park. A combination of our Native Enriched, Landscape 34, Species Rich Wildflower Turf and our Wildflower bulb mixes were used to create these diverse wildflower meadow spaces. Using native species was key. They thrive in the local climate and soil, providing the most benefit to local insects and other wildlife. Wildflower Turf was chosen to create low-maintenance solutions, a crucial factor for a busy public park.
Our high quality, low-maintenance solution not only enhances biodiversity but also provides a sustainable and cost-effective approach for councils looking to transform their green spaces. This transformation has resulted in beautiful wildflower meadow areas that will continue to flourish for years to come, providing a valuable resource for both people and wildlife. The transformation of Horsham Park Pond is a testament to the importance of creating green spaces that are both beautiful and beneficial.
Photo Credits: Debbie Mallard
