Landscape & Urban Design Issue 71 2025 | Page 54

LANDSCAPING SERVICES

PICTORIAL MEADOWS TRANSFORMING

GRASSLANDS

FOR BIODIVERSITY AND BEAUTY

Meadows ’ earlier successes , such as Rotherham ’ s “ River of Flowers ,” which revolutionized grassland maintenance while drastically cutting council costs .
The community ’ s response has been overwhelmingly positive . Visitors liken the meadows to a painting , with one park ranger humorously telling an admirer , “ We painted it yesterday ; the paint ’ s still wet .” The anecdote captures the spirit of Mega Flora — transforming ordinary spaces into living works of art .
The Mega Flora project , a pioneering collaboration between North Lanarkshire Council and the innovative planting experts at Pictorial Meadows , is redefining urban green spaces in Motherwell and Strathclyde Country Park . From residential areas to a repurposed red ash football pitch , this ambitious initiative is transforming landscapes into vibrant , flower-rich meadows while addressing biodiversity loss , climate challenges , and budget constraints .
At its heart , Mega Flora combines ecological enhancement with practical benefits . Pictorial Meadows ’ specialist Landscape Team has sown over 53 million perennial seeds across 70,000 square meters in 130 plots , creating stunning meadows that attract wildlife and delight local residents . Additionally , more than 900 tall herb plants , representing over 100 species , have been planted . Using bespoke seed mixes designed specifically for urban spaces , these areas now bloom with seasonal colour and life . Local schools and volunteers have been actively involved , fostering a sense of community ownership and environmental stewardship .
Beyond aesthetics , the project delivers measurable benefits . Maintenance regimes have shifted to one annual cut , compared to the previous 16 , leading to significant environmental and financial savings . Reduced machinery use cuts emissions , lowers costs , and creates quieter , safer green spaces for people and wildlife alike .
Supported by Greenspace Scotland and funding from the Levelling Up Parks Programme , Mega Flora exemplifies national efforts to restore urban nature . The project builds on Pictorial
By blending innovative planting strategies with reduced maintenance schedules , Pictorial Meadows and North Lanarkshire Council are demonstrating a sustainable model for urban green space management . Mega Flora proves that transforming urban landscapes can be costeffective , community-driven , and visually stunning — a beacon of how urban areas can thrive with thoughtful , nature-focused design .
Pictorial Meadows , is part of The Green Estate Community Interest Company and offers a range of designer meadow seed mixes and turf , alongside a professional meadow creation , management and consultation service .
www . pictorialmeadows . co . uk
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