The transformation of a derelict shopping centre into green space is underway in Nottingham and is expected to open to the public later this month.

ATV Contract Services has spent the last two months working on the landscaping element for Willmott Dixon on behalf of Nottingham City Council.

The former Broadmarsh Shopping Centre site will provide a new meeting space, surrounded by 34 mature trees, including two Metasequoia (giant redwood).

The focal point will be a mature English oak tree which proved challenging to source due to restrictions to prevent the spread of oak processionary moth in the UK, says ATV Contract Services director Ben Hensman. Instead, a tree was imported that had been grown from seed in southern Ireland.

An acre of the site will be covered by several thousand wetland plugs, such as marsh marigold, specimen shrubs and perennial flowers.

The planting list was “diverse” to provide “suitable wildlife benefits while creating a modern green space that is accessible to the public,” says Danny Green, account manager for Lincolnshire-based nursery Crowders, which supplied the majority of the plants.

“Three trees hand chosen by the client are the focal point of the development. The underplants, which complement these trees, consist of mature shrubs, such as dogwoods and witch hazels, flowing down to wildflower poppies and primulas, offering interest through all the seasons. There is also a diverse wetland area, encouraging further biodiversity into a busy urban area.”

Pathed walkways through the planting will connect the redeveloped Nottingham Central Library and Broadmarsh Bus Station building with pedestrian routes to the Old Market Square and Nottingham Castle. Nine oak benches will also be installed around the site, and a 180m³ space is being excavated in the centre for a pond.