Chorley town centre’s first living wall: Transforming the bus station into a green landmark

• Inleaf designed and installed Chorley’s first living wall
• A comprehensive sunlight and microclimate model determined ideal plants selection
• A rainwater harvesting system was incorporated to reduced mains water usage

Inleaf won a competitive tender to install Chorley town centre’s first living wall at the Chorley Interchange bus station.

This project was part of a larger scheme to improve Chorley Bus station’s accessibility, aesthetic and overall experience for the local community.

The Council’s plan to install the living wall would harness the natural benefits that living plants can bring to towns and cities. Helping to mitigate pollution, reduce ambient temperatures, and enhance biodiversity.

Prior to the installation, Inleaf carried out a detailed study to assess the bus station’s environmental conditions, including seasonal light levels, rainfall, and average temperatures.

To better understand the site’s sunlight exposure a 3D model was created to analyse the patterns of sunlight and shadows throughout the year, aiding the selection of plants. 

Each area of the living wall was designed to align with the unique microclimate, ensuring optimal plant health and visual appeal.

In areas with limited sunlight, shade tolerant species such as Ferns, Pachysandra and Loniceras were selected for their ability to thrive in lower light conditions. 

Conversely, zones that received more sunlight were planted with sun-loving species such as Stachys Byzantina, Cotoneaster Dammeri and Festuca glauca. This approach means the wall can thrive all year round whilst changing with the seasons.

The living wall features a diverse mix of plants, including flowers, berries, grasses and scented blooms. These varieties attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, providing them with essential food sources and habitats. By incorporating a wide range of plant species, the wall contributes to Chorley’s ecological resilience.

Installation of the living wall took approximately two weeks, involving electricians, plumbers and builders who helped set up the Fytotextile living wall system. This particular system required onsite planting of 3,150 plants, which the Inleaf team completed over four days.

The living wall irrigation system includes integrated rainwater harvesting to reuse water gather from the build’s large roof area. Given Chorley’s average annual rainfall exceeding 1,000mm, the system is able to capture and reuse rainwater to irrigate the living wall, reducing reliance on mains water and promoting sustainability.

To ensure the health of the plants, moisture and temperature sensors within the living wall monitor the conditions. These are monitored remotely at Inleaf’s HQ to ensure the system is functioning correctly. This data-driven approach facilitates proactive maintenance, ensuring the longevity and vitality of the living wall.

Since the completion of the living wall, a recent spell of sunny weather has accelerated the growth of the plants. This rapid development not only enhances the visual appeal of the living wall but also amplifies its environmental benefits. With more sunny days anticipated, the plants are expected to continue flourishing, leading to a vibrant display that will enrich the bus station’s atmosphere.

Chorley Borough Council have provided a testimonial saying “We’re proud to share the successful completion of the living wall project at the bus station, a striking example of how thoughtful design and sustainability can completely transform an urban space.

“Partnering with Inleaf, a company renowned for their expertise in biophilic design, was a seamless and rewarding experience from start to finish. Their team brought professionalism, creativity and deep horticultural knowledge to the table, making the entire process smooth and efficient.

“The living wall itself has had a remarkable impact. What was once a fairly standard bus station is now a vibrant, welcoming space bursting with greenery. The wall not only adds aesthetic value, but also improves air quality and brings a sense of calm to one of the busiest spots in town.

“The attention to detail from Inleaf was exceptional, they ensured the planting scheme was tailored to thrive in its environment, with a mixture of textures and colours that change subtly through the seasons.

“This project demonstrates the powerful benefits of integrating nature into public spaces and we couldn’t be happier with the result.”