A SOUTHAMPTON wall at a city roundabout has burst into blooms of colour during the lockdown, as part of the council’s Green City Plan.

Launched as the UK’s first Living Wall on a major road network, situated at Millbrook Roundabout, it has added a vibrant splash of colour to the area, with the green wall now being brought to life by sprouting flowers.

The installation of the Living Wall was part of reconstruction plans issued by the council and its Highways Partner Balfour Beatty Living Places.

The essential works to reconstruct the foundations and resurface Millbrook Roundabout started in October 2018.

Councillor Steve Leggett, who is the Cabinet Member for Green City and Place, said: “The new Living Wall has come to life within months of being installed.

“The variety of plants used has ensured that we are seeing not only an environmental benefit but an attractive addition to the Southampton.

“We are lucky to have over 1,000 hectares of open space in the city, as part of the Green City Plan we are committed to protecting and enhancing our natural environment.”

The council’s Green City Plan sets out how it intends to tackle climate change through five key themes, with two main concerns involving delivering clean air and the natural environment.

Plans include becoming a carbon neutral city by 2030, promoting the switch to electric vehicles and increasing the number of wildflower meadows in Southampton.

Brian Hammersley, Contract Director for Balfour Beatty Living Places, said: “We are incredibly proud to have supported Southampton City Council in the delivery of this flagship project and pleased that the benefits of the Living Wall at Millbrook Roundabout are now being realised.”