If Only... wasted spaces were given over to wildlife
says Ian Wale, of Make Architects
The central areas of gyratory systems and large roundabouts are often wasted spaces in that are under-used, have expensive maintenance burdens and, on occasion, suffer from anti-social behaviour. If only they were used more effectively... What if they were given over to wildlife?
Today, wildlife competes with humans across much of the UK but nowhere is this problem more apparent than in urban areas. If securely protected, these undervalued spaces could become wildlife havens, offering much-needed habitat for flora and fauna. Societal benefits would see maintenance costs slashed, mental well-being increased and air quality enhanced.
Gyratories could be transformed into gyNATUREies, not only across London but across the UK and the wider world, creating a global network that contributes to green infrastructure on a planet-wide scale. Free from human access and interference, wildlife could thrive undisturbed, with CCTV cameras providing people with visual contact.
To kick-start nature's revival, a kit of parts could be installed - such as a pond, and areas of soil and rubble - with nature left to establish and grow from there. Sculptural perimeter fences could identify gyNATUREies becoming a symbol of urban nature conservation. They could be implemented across the network as an easily recognisable feature.
Ian Wale
Ian Wale is a partner at Make Architects, which he joined in 2013 to establish a landscape architecture team. He is also an associate tutor at the University of Sheffield. Ian has a passion for the natural and designed environments and thrives on the challenge of bringing nature into our urban areas.
