Clarks Village has planted hundreds of flowers and shrubs

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Clarks Village plants hundreds of flowers, shrubs and more to boost environment

Paul JonesJune 10, 20250 Comment0

HUNDREDS of plants, flowers and shrubs have been planted at Clarks Village in Street as part of a new sustainability project.

The scheme, announced to mark World Environment Day on June 5, is designed to enhance the local environment and support biodiversity, creating and preserving food and habitats for wildlife, the shopping outlet centre said.

More than 600 native plants have been planted around Clarks Village’s Westway entrance, along the A39, to create “a flourishing hedge which will encourage local wildlife and pollinators”.

The mix of plants includes hawthorn, blackthorn, field maple, hazel, guelder rose, spindle and dogwood, which produce a mix of blossom, berries, flowers, nuts, and leaves to attract local birds to feed and potentially nest in the future.

A new hedgerow has also been planted alongside one of Clarks Village’s main car parks. And an old hedgerow has been replaced as it was damaged and no longer flourishing, with landscapers planting a new bushy super plant.

As well as boasting attractive flowers and berries to attract birds and bees, the evergreen Cotoneaster Franchetii variety was chosen due to scientific evidence which found it is 20% more effective at soaking up pollution compared to other shrubs.

Finally, adjacent to the outlet’s adventure playground, an underused grassy area has been renovated into a wildflower meadow.

Wildflower turf has been installed featuring 32 UK-native flower species and two grasses.

The new pollinator-friendly wild turf will allow insects and other pollinators a dedicated habitat with plans in place to add a large bug hotel for insects to hibernate over winter along with a new native hedge and spring bulbs.

The planting programme is part of Clarks Village’s long-term commitment to sustainability, which sees the centre source 100% of its electricity from renewable suppliers, and nearly three quarters of waste produced on site recycled, with zero sent to landfill.

Chris Davis, centre director, said: “One of Clarks Village’s unique features is its stunning outdoor location and green space which not only looks beautiful, but provides us with an unmissable opportunity to make small yet significant changes to make a real difference to local wildlife and the surrounding environment.

“Sustainability is a key priority for Clarks Village – for now and for the future. It’s far more than just a trend, it’s a responsibility to create a greener future for our community.”