Rivendale Lodge’s Ecological Transformation
Location: Rivendale Lodge, Derby
Product used: Landscape 34 Wildflower Turf® & Bespoke Wildflower Turf®
Project Size: 12,700m²
Project Overview
Having previously partnered with Darwin Escapes, the luxury holiday lodge specialists, to transform spaces across the UK, Darwin Escapes sought to create another project with Wildflower Turf Ltd at their newly opened Rivendale Lodge Retreat set in the heart of the Peak District. Formerly a caravan park, the Rivendale site was transformed into wildflower haven with luxury self-contained lodges overlooking the Alsop Dale.
The challenge was to introduce a diverse range of native wildflowers into the landscape while ensuring compatibility with the exiting habitat and meeting the specific requirements of the Peak District National Park Authority. With conservation being a key component of the resorts development strategy, Wildflower Turf Ltd was commissioned by Landscape Architects and Environmental Consultants, RPS Planning & Development to lend our wildflower expertise to this redevelopment project.
The Solution
The project aimed to enhance the biodiversity and aesthetic appeal of the resort while aligning with its conservation focused development strategy. Despite facing the added complexity of navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic during its implementation, Wildflower Turf Ltd supplied a total of 12,700m² of a modified Landscape mix and a bespoke grown mix. The 3,500m² of bespoke Wildflower Turf®, was carefully curated and designed by the Landscape Architects in discussion with the Peak District National Park Authority, ecology and landscape teams alongside Wildflower Turf Ltd senior consultants.
The bespoke calcareous grassland mix was created to enhance the biodiversity of Rivendale by adding locally common, UK-native species that would also add colour and diversity to the landscape whilst providing a habitat for pollinators and other local wildlife. In addition to the wildflower meadows that were installed, the site included several other conservation initiatives including a wildlife pond, planting hundreds of native trees and a new ‘bat barn’ to further conservation and protection of the local wildlife. Blending beautifully into the natural setting, the extensive wildflower meadows around the site significantly enhanced both the aesthetic appeal and biodiversity of the holiday park.
The Results
Since the wildflower meadow installation in 2020, the project has had a positive impact on local wildlife and the local community. The wildflower meadows have provided a valuable source of nectar and pollen for pollinators, boosted biodiversity andincreased habitats for local wildlife. Aside from the ecological benefits, the meadow has enhanced the overall aesthetic appeal to locals and visitors alike. The wildflower meadows also provide an educational opportunity for guests to learn about native species, pollinators and the importance of biodiversity.
Rivendale was a fascinating project to be involved and we take great pride in knowing that our beautiful wildflowers will delight holidaymakers for years to come!
Photo Credits: Dave Cox RPS Group