News

Central Milton Keynes first food-growing green rooftop is to be trialled at Saxon Court

September 28th, 2021

Central MK’s first live lab rooftop that will be capable of growing food is to be trialled at Saxon Court.

Plans for the sustainable green rooftop have been announced by mixed-use developers First Base and investors Patron Capital, the team behind the new proposals for Saxon Court.

The former council housing office building is currently being used as the city’s mass vaccination centre, but afterwards First Base plans to build 287 apartments on the site, together with workspaces, a gym, an innovation hub and local independent food, drink, leisure and retail outlets.

The temporary roof project is being launched In collaboration with local living roof specialists, Bridgman & Bridgman, creative agency, Pooleyville, YMCA Milton Keynes and Milton Keynes Council.

It will deliver training and development opportunities for local young people as form part of the council’s Green Business Recovery Fund.

The project will draw on local, specialist expertise to demonstrate the biodiversity and carbon capture benefits of green roofs within urban areas, as well as the ability to grow food on rooftops.

Due to the growing awareness of the benefits of green roofs, the industry is looking for new, skilled workers to manage increasing demand. As part of the Saxon Court project, YMCA residents will be offered the opportunity to be trained and awarded certifications in the installation and maintenance of green roofs, providing them with the skills to meet future employment opportunities.

For the full story, please visit – https://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/news/environment/central-milton-keynes-first-food-growing-green-rooftop-is-to-be-trialled-at-saxon-court-3259848