Leeds Skelton Lake Services Green Roof
Implemented by our sister company, Wildflower Turf Ltd, UK
Opened in March 2020, Leeds Skelton Lake Services is celebrated as the UK’s most environmentally conscious motorway service station. Nestled within a nine-acre eco-rich country park alongside a picturesque lake, this $84.5 million facility was designed to harmonize with the surrounding natural landscape. Our sister company, Wildflower Turf Ltd, was brought on board to create a visually stunning and ecologically functional living roof that enhances the site's connection to nature.
A key aspect of the project was ensuring the wildflower meadow on the roof adhered to planning regulations while blending seamlessly with the natural environment. The roof’s distinctive undulating design is divided into eleven sections arranged in a ribbon-like form, adding architectural flair while respecting the ecological context.
To achieve the vision, Wildflower Turf Ltd crafted a bespoke blend of 41 native UK wildflower species, supported by a specially formulated substrate tailored for rapid, healthy growth. The substrate was lightweight and well-draining, designed to meet the roof's weight limitations while providing optimal conditions for plant development.
Spanning over 49,000 square feet, the Wildflower Sod was installed to create a resilient and low-maintenance meadow that thrives year-round, despite exposure to the elements.
The green roof has successfully become a biodiverse habitat, attracting bees and other insects while seamlessly blending the structure into its natural surroundings. It also supports sustainable urban drainage, absorbing rainwater and reducing surface runoff. The meadow improves local air and water quality by filtering pollutants and preventing harmful chemicals from reaching nearby waterways. Additionally, the roof helps lower carbon emissions by moderating building temperatures and reduces noise pollution from the adjacent motorway.
The innovative design has garnered significant recognition, winning multiple awards in 2021, including the BALI Commercial Green Roof of the Year and the NFRC UK Roofing Award for best green roof.
