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2012 Olympic park ready for climate change
Ruth Bloomfield14 Apr 2009
OLYMPIC chiefs are attempting to "future-proof" the Olympic park by planting only trees, grasses and flowers that will be able to withstand hot, wet weather.
The Olympic Delivery Authority, which today released a series of images showing how the 250 acres of parkland will look, wants the legacy of the Games to be protected from climate change. Some British species such as beech trees are to be left out from the design because it is feared they will die out if the climate changes as predicted.
The plans also include a network of ditches and gullies to reduce the risk of flash flooding as rainfall increases in years to come.
An ODA spokesman said that organisers wanted to retain the park's distinctly British feel, but only resilient species including cherry and oak trees are to be planted. He added: "Robust native species have been recommended for the river corridors that can cope with variation in water levels and flash flooding, both of which are features of climate change." More than 2,000 trees and other tall plants will offer shade to residents. There will also be space for allotments so future residents can grow their own food.
More than 150 homes in Stratford Village, next to the 2012 site, have been transformed after residents were persuaded to plant window boxes and sew quilts.
Reader views (4)
PC Folly.
Every year has been cooler since 1998. Check it yourself and see!
- Dave Davies, Basingstoke, 14/04/2009 22:27
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They don't know what the budget will be next month,but they know what the weather will be next century.What will be in these ditches and gullies in between flash floods?
- Mdj E10, london uk, 14/04/2009 13:52
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Is this the same policy that lead to shortages of grit for roads following our recent severe winter as due to man made global warming councils saved money by not storing grit. I hope they wrap their banana palms up well as we have lost most of ours this year due to the severe cold. It may be more sensible to plant traditonal trees and shrubs that have survived centuries of natural climate change.
- Stuz Graz, Wimbledon England, 14/04/2009 12:17
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Fair enough preparing for climate change BUT does it suit the wildlife especially the insects like bees?
- Tony Islander, Herts, 14/04/2009 09:50
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