Canary Wharf Greening Phase One

Canary Wharf Estate Greening Phase One forms a key part of Canary Wharf Group’s (CWG) commitment to achieving net-zero carbon by 2030, and reflects CWG's broader ambition to create one of the world's most sustainable urban environments.

Gillespies was appointed to developed a framework of ten priority areas where landscape interventions could be delivered rapidly, providing immediate environmental and visual benefits. Collaborating closely with landscape contractor Willerby Landscapes and living wall specialists Biotecture, we introduced a series of modular timber furniture, planters, and living walls across the Estate. 

Living walls help to improve air quality, control rainwater runoff and increase biodiversity, benefiting the environment, and the area's residents and visitors. Plant species were carefully selected to thrive in the unique microclimates of each location. The planting strategy emphasises year-round visual interest, with a rich variety of colour, texture, form, and movement that evolves with the seasons.

The Greening Masterplan builds upon the progress Canary Wharf Group (CWG) has already made in embedding nature within the urban fabric of the Estate. Through the integration of green infrastructure, it supports natural ecosystems and reinforces CWG’s long-term sustainability agenda.

The landscape framework by Gillespies outlines both long-term ambitions and immediate interventions. These ‘quick wins’ are designed to enhance existing green infrastructure, introduce new green corridors and spaces, and foster ecological connectivity across the Estate. In doing so, they support the objectives of the CWG Biodiversity Action Plan and contribute to a greener, healthier future for Canary Wharf.