On Thursday, 15th June 2023, industry professionals gathered at Ladybrook Nurseries in Bramhall Cheshire, for a day filled with valuable insights and interactive sessions focused on achieving award-winning landscape schemes. Planners, designers, developers, and contractors came together to explore the keys to success in delivering multi-functional projects with measurable environmental benefits. The event featured renowned speakers, practical demonstrations, and an opportunity to connect with exhibitors.
The event started with a series of presentations, providing valuable insights into overcoming onsite constraints, fostering successful collaboration, and implementing best practices.
Lucy Stowell, Project Manager, Groundwork Greater Manchester – introduced us to her wonderful project, Resilient River Valleys, which tackles a multitude of flooding issues, and habitat improvements that also enabled community engagement
Chris Kendrick, Associate, Civic Engineers – showcased a variety of fantastic projects, providing an overview of key design considerations the industry should adopt within their future schemes.
Stuart Simpson, Director, of Ashlea Landscapes – provided an overview of the key challenges involved in the installation process, describing the importance of the design and planting to consider drainage.
Helen Waddington, Head of Casework, Perennial – concluded the talks by explaining that the charity provides vital support to those that work in the landscape sector.
As has come to be expected from a GBU event, the speakers were fantastic
-Faye Gennard, Rennard Consulting Limited)
Following the morning sessions, attendees were treated to a delicious pizza lunch providing further opportunity for networking and informal discussions, with a fun surprise of an ice cream van for dessert which was a warm welcome in the hot sunshine.
Product demonstrations were provided by exhibitors, giving participants a chance to explore cutting-edge innovations and discover new tools and technologies that can enhance their projects.
A live tree pit installation and a chance to become hands-on with the Arborsystem products. The practical demonstration provided valuable insights into effective tree pit design and maintenance.
What a brilliant day learning all things tree pits
– Ricky Whiteman, Gavin Jones
To deepen their understanding of tree species selection, participants were also invited to take a nursery tour, where they discovered the wide variety of tree species available and learned about the considerations for choosing the right trees for different environments.
The programme was very well-paced and full of valuable information and good opportunities for sharing and networking. I thought the venue was ideal and provided a clear pathway for the consumer to understand successful tree planting and management.
– (Terry Smithson, Bioscapes)
We are thrilled by the overwhelming response to our recent event and the enthusiasm demonstrated, that we have committed to fostering a second event for our southern customers later in the year. We encourage you to stay connected and register for our Southern Contractor Day in association with Hillier’s on 14th September 2023.
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all industry professionals who attended our event.
