Friday 9 November 2012

IRRI Green Infrastructure work wins award!

IRRI is delighted to announce that it is part of the winning team for the Integrated Habitats Design Competition 2012. The study, titled 'Nitshill Integrated Green Infrastructure Design Study' won the award for Overall Winner 2012, working with Glasgow & Clyde Valley Green Network, Glasgow Ciy Council, ERZ Limited and Glasgow EnviroCentre.

As announced by the IHDC awarders, 'the focus for the Nitshill Integrated Green Infrastructure (IGI) design study is a suburban area of approximately 300ha in south west Glasgow. The aim of the study is to identify and provide design proposals for strategic opportunities to enhance and expand the area’s existing green infrastructure and integrate it into existing and new built development for the area.


'The study objectives are to:
• improve the quality of life for those who live and work in, or visit Nitshill
• provide more robust habitats for wildlife integrated through the built environment
• deliver naturalised surface water management solutions
• better prepare Nitshill for the impacts of climate change.

'The study approach was to consider where delivery of green infrastructure could most effectively and efficiently deliver the following five design elements:
• surface water management
• habitat networks
• access networks
• green and open space
• cost‐effective stewardship over time.

'The analysis brought together many spatial datasets, including integrated habitat network models for woodland, wetland and grassland habitats. From the analysis area specific design studies have been developed which are imaginative and innovative and deliver on the study objectives. The study has been well received by Scottish Government, local planners, agencies and local communitie and it will influence an ‘Area Development Framework’. The Council and other agencies are working to deliver ‘early wins’ based on the proposals, which can help them deliver services more efficiently.'

Judges of the competition gave brilliant praise to the study: 'Looking at a variety of aspects, this is a comprehensive and convincing project. Integration comes in the form of impressive community links and a great approach to ecological networks. The submission included a thorough GIS analysis and a sustainable drainage system presented in detail to address surface water flood risk and management. The judges were impressed by the in-depth analysis of this realistic and cost-effective project.'

To view images of the project, please visit: http://ihdc.org.uk/#/nitshill-gi-study/4570104722

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