Strand Aldwych transformation awarded gold by London in Bloom

The transformation of the once grey and traffic-congested area in central London into a vibrant, green space in the heart of the city has been recognised for its contribution to creating a healthier, more sustainable urban environment.

Designed by LDA Design, the redevelopment introduces nature into what was once a car-dominated thoroughfare, allowing the historic streetscape to flourish while complementing the Grade I listed architecture that lines the street. The project serves as a model for urban renewal, promoting a softer, greener, and more human-centred approach to city living.

The new landscape delivers 1,370 square meters of biodiverse planting, maintained by Windowflowers. The area features a range of species, including White Wood Aster, Ajuga reptans ‘Catlin’s Giant’, Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’, Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’, and Sedum ‘Ruby Glow’. In addition, forty new trees, including Amelanchier lamarckii (Service Berry / June Berry) and Ulmus ‘New Horizon’, have been planted, further enhancing the urban canopy.

The transformation of Strand Aldwych is a key example of how urban spaces can be repurposed to prioritise nature, health, and well-being, and also shows how when done properly, the pedestrianisation of urban spaces enhances the experiences of businesses, cyclists, pedestrians and all those who travel through.

Cannon Ivers, Director at LDA Design said: “Strand has long been about movement and transport and now it is a democratic public space for everyone to enjoy. It brings nature into the heart of historic London, including lawns loved and lounged on by King’s College London students. Forty-one new trees combined with mature plane trees mean there is shade and comfort. The planting is designed to offer year-round interest and colour and is nurtured with care and horticultural know-how. From a cast of many, each season there is drama and stars of the show. Right now, the grasses are tall and majestic, early spring there are swathes of daffodils and then into May, it’s all about the alliums. Without the traffic, we can now properly admire St Mary le Strand Church and its fabulous magnolias trees. All of this helps to create a place that is healthier, that brings joy and where people want to be.”

Ruth Duston OBE OC, CEO of London Heritage Quarter said: “Making space for nature in urban spaces can be challenging but is always worthwhile. The award from the prestigious London in Bloom competition is testament to the hard work of all involved, and the project is the perfect example of what collaborative work can achieve. By working closely with a diverse range of stakeholders including Westminster City Council, this greening scheme has delivered truly transformative results for this area of London that links the West End and the City. It serves as a template on how the pedestrianisation of public spaces can transform pockets of urban cities into a destinations where people want to be.”

Councillor Geoff Barraclough, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development at Westminster City Council, said: “The transformation of Strand Aldwych from a previously traffic-dominated historic gateway to the West End into a vibrant public space is a testament to how thoughtful urban design can deliver tangible benefits for all who live, work, study, and visit our city. The Small Park Gold Award for Strand Aldwych is a welcome recognition of our efforts to create greener, more inclusive spaces in Westminster.

This project represents a significant step in our journey towards a more sustainable and liveable city. By improving air quality and creating vibrant community spaces, the new Strand Aldwych shows how we can create environments where culture, education, and community flourish side by side.

Importantly, this transformation highlights the power of partnership with local institutions, partners and stakeholders. By reimagining our city spaces together, we’ve brought about significant benefits for everyone, driving forward our ambitions for a greener, healthier, and more sustainable city.”