Landscape Planning & Design Consultancy

P. Nolan, HNC.Hort.

LANDSCAPE PROPOSALS
CARCUR DEVELOPMENT
LANDSCAPE PROPOSALS FOR CARCUR
To the eastern boundary the site changes with large areas of open grassland with
willow species and Rushes, as the site gets marshier. This grassland is dense and sponge
in places with ponds and marshland providing an excellent wildlife habitat. The coastal
SITE DEVELOPMENT. area Is fringed with Willow, blackthorn, and hawthorn.
The southern boundary has much denser scrub, mainly Alder “Alnus Glutinosa” &
EXISTING SITE Willow “Salix Cinerea”. There is a tidal area of mature rushes and reeds to the south
which is protected under the SPA boundary and Special Area of conservation 2017.

Carcur is an area of undeveloped waste land to the north of Wexford town. It The western boundary is less vegetated. The rail track fringes the site and has been
occupies an area of 13.84 Ha. which consists of varied areas, of gravel pits, woodland, maintained in a non-vegetative state by Irish Rail to prevent encroachment on the
grass margins, hedgerows, wetlands, scrub, stone and sand shoreline. It has a mixed line. Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Willow, Alder, Birch are mixed and naturally vegetated
and varied wildlife habitat and has remained undisturbed for several years. Occupying along this boundary, in mixed groups or as individual trees spread broadcast along the
an area close to Wexford town with easy access it has been used by people to walk boundary. Bramble, Gorse and Broom are also present.
dogs, hunt, fish, and gather for drink associated unsocial behaviour. The central areas of the site have vegetated gravel beds with grass land which has
Under the Wexford County Development Plan the land has been zoned for residential started, to reclaim lands that were subjected to deposited materials, or excavated
development. The site also provides an access opportunity route for a new river areas of hollows and embankments this natural regeneration, is evident across the site.
crossing, linking Carcur with Crosstown and beyond.
The site is bounded by the river Slaney to the North, South, and East, with extensive
shoreline along the river. The shoreline is protected by the Wexford Harbour and Slobs
SPA and Slaney River Valley SAC. The western boundary is defined by the Dublin
Rosslare Rail Track that runs along the extent of the western boundary. Adjacent to this
rail track on the western side, a semi natural woodland strip separates Carcur from
public Amenity sports grounds, incorporating Wexford Rugby grounds, Soccer and
Gaelic pitches.
Access to the site is gained via a pedestrian pathway over the Dublin- Rosslare Rail
track, defined paths and lanes are non-existent, with tracks worn by people, and
animals being most convenient way of accessing the principal areas.
Gradients on site are localised with the site being reasonably level, falling to the River
Slaney. There are some localised hollows and fills that have been brought about by
land usage over a period.
Vegetation on site is varied and localised within the site. There is a varied and mixed
Flora and Fauna habitats throughout the site, with protected areas to the south, and
along the shoreline, where Otter habitats are protected. “See Ecologists reports for
greater detail”
The northern section of the site is Bounded by a young Birch Betula Pubescens
woodland with Mixed Oak “Quercus Petraea” & “Quercus pubescens” species. Some
Larch “Larix Decidua”, Pines “Pinus Noblis” & “Pinus Cortaota”, and are also present.
SITE LOCATION SITE PROPOSALS

Under the Wexford Co. Development plan the area denoted as Carcur has been
zoned for Residential development.
Permission is sought by Willian Neville and Sons for: A total of 413 residential
units consisting of 175 houses (12 four bedroom detached houses + Garages, 20 four
SITE
bedroom Semi-Detached houses, 2 four bedroom corner detached houses, 80 three
bedroom Semi Detached Houses, 20 three bedroom terraced houses, 7 three bed end
of terrace houses, 4 three bedroom corner houses, 20 two bedroom terraced houses, 6
two bedroom end of terrace, 4 Semi-Detached houses), 7 apartment blocks with a
total of 238 Apartments: (Block One: (47 units over 5 floors: 40 two bed, 7 three
bed), Block Two: (50 units over 7 floors: 4 one bed, 38 two bed, 8 three bed), Block
Three: (45 units over 7 floors: 3 one bed, 34 two bed, 8 three bed), Block Four: (20 units
over 4 floors: 1 one bed, 19 two bed), Block Five: (38 units over 5 floors: 1 one bed, 37
two bed,) Block Six: (19 units over 4 floors: 3 one bed, 15 two bed, 1 four bed) Block
Seven: (19 units over 4 floors: 3 one bed, 15 two bed, 1 four bed)). Together with two
crèche facilities (Crèche A: 346.4 sqm floor area. Crèche B 395.3sq.m floor area). A
total of 767 Car parking spaces (248 private parking spaces, 501 public spaces and 18
creche spaces). and all associated site works”. The proposal shall be delivered over
four phases of development. An EIAR (Environmental Impact Assessment Report), an
OS: MAP OF AREA
NIAR (NATURA Impact Assessment Report) and a SSFRA (Site Specific Flood Risk
AERIAL VIEW OF THE SITE Assessment have been prepared as part of the planning application.

AERIAL IMAGE
SITE LAYOUT PLAN LANDSCAPE ZONES

North

ZONES

PROPOSED SITE PLAN

The proposed development has been designed to protect the existing shoreline and
habitat. Buildings and access roads have been placed away from the shoreline,
open amenity space has been created to provide additional usable space for
enjoyment and play. The main objectives of the landscape plan is to aid the seamless
insertion of the proposed residential units and infrastructure into this landscape
sensitive area and to mitigate against disruption during the initial construction phase –
protecting the existing Habitat, Flora and Fauna of the area.
The medium to long term objectives will be the establishment of protected wildlife Moving North west along the shoreline the vegetation is dominated by Grass and
zones, with new green areas and corridors for re-establishment of wildlife species and scrub land. These areas are under the protection of the SPA and will not be impacted
the creation of greater bio-diversity in the area. upon by the development. Small copses of young Birch with Oak are located to the
North-western corner of the site. Those within the protection area will be retained, self-
Soft and hard landscape materials will be selected to encourage wildlife establishment
seeded within the site will be removed depending on the required cut and fill of the
where possible.
construction area.

Hard landscape materials, using gravel pathways with timber edging, rock outcrops, It is proposed to close off this area and protect it from public access. A gated
split stone walls and seating will allow small invertebrates to colonise public spaces. entrance will be provided for maintenance and supervision by authorised personal
Wild flower meadow areas will be sown to the fringes of Amenity park land to create a only. This will be done by erecting a weld mesh fence – with base wall to prevent dogs
usable space for play and varied habitat. digging under the fence.
The insertion of the wall will impact on some of the existing vegetation during the
Open habitats such as wildflower meadows in urban settings for the provision of native construction, this will be mitigated against by extensive new hawthorn planting along
or naturalised grasses, wildflowers and flowering plants offer several advantages: the length of the fence.
 Providing additional screening to the protected zone and softening the impact
 Plant diversity attracts insects and other invertebrates (including butterflies, bees, of the fence.
spiders and millipedes), birds and mammals
 It will act as a secondary deterrent to anyone wishing to gain unauthorised
 Flowering species add a changing palate of colour to the urban environment
throughout the seasons access.
 Active involvement of the local community in managing the site encourages  Hawthorn is an excellent species to encourage wildlife as it is one of the first trees
ownership values to be fostered – activities may range from mowing to the to flower, and berry bringing spring relief to Birds and small mammals.
collection of seeds for use at a new location or for sale.
 Opportunities for education and recreation abound (ranging from nature studies
to art lessons).
 Even small plots of wildflower planting can change the feel of a setting, so that
the creation of a wildflower meadow as part of an urban greenspace can bring
a little piece of countryside into the town.

River Shore line

This protected area will be maintained in its natural shape and form. Scrub land to the
South will be retained leaving a natural buffer zone. The reed beds located to the
south are within the protection area and as such will not be disturbed. Scrub land
extending North east along the Slaney will be maintained, refuse and debris scattered
or washed up on the shoreline will be removed and recycled where possible. To the
east of the site there is an otter pond located in grassy marshland which will need
relocation to the denoted position. The establishment of this otter run is a priority, and
attention to detail under the supervision of the ecologist is required. The proposed
construction method will be agreed on site following additional excavations to
establish the porosity of the sub soil, and a decision will be made based on these
excavations whether or not a liner is required.
PROTECTIVE FENCE SCHEMATIC
Rail line Boundary: Public Space:
The rail line boundary to the west of the site provides its own set of challenges. Irish rail The proposed development has several open space areas that are accessible to the
maintains the existing track line cutting back and removing any extraneous vegetation public. These spaces are located throughout the site and are indicated as follows.
that self-seeds or becomes overgrown. The margins along the track line tend to be
low grass and bramble, these are important habitats for small mammals and
invertebrates.
There are several semi-detached units located close to the rail line. These units will
require additional screening to provide privacy and security. It is proposed to plant a
new hedgerow of mixed native trees and shrubbery to reinforce the existing
vegetation line. This planting will extend along the full western boundary from the new
site access to the existing Birch woodland to the Northwest. A new post and wire fence
will be erected along the rail line boundary. All planting will be carried out within the
site constraints.

Private space:
All units will be allocated private space areas, either as private gardens or common
space, their design will vary depending on their location, size and function. In general,
this will include fenced rear gardens seeded with lawn seed mix 2. Small terrace areas
using 400*400 or 600*600 paving flags or similar. All rear gardens will have a minimum
of 1no. tree whose girth will be no less than 14-16 cm, staked and tied using a “H”
frame support. Front gardens will be subdivided by low walls or hedging. Driveways
were applicable will be brick paving 200*100*80 mm with banding to match. Bin
storage areas will be provided to all units with rear access gates. Tree planting to the
front gardens will be carried out as part of the general landscape scheme, it is
envisaged that tree planting will be carried out to reflect ‘Avenue Style’ where a
single or varied ornamental species may be used to define an area.
Public area (A)
Located to the northwest of the site this area encompasses an area of 6021 msq The
focus of landscape design for this area is open parkland, providing an area for
recreation and play. The central area will be sown and maintained as lawn for sports
play. A hogging pathway will extend from the public path up to and along the
northern boundary. This pathway will have a hogging surface edged with 6*2 pressure
treated timber edge. A rest area with seating and boulders is proposed along this
route with views over the parkland. Additional benches will be provided along the
route and adjacent to the public pathway. Path margins will be seeded down with
wildflower meadow grass “of native Provenance”. With a larger area of wildflower
meadow adjoining the public path. The proposed otter protection fence will be
extensively planted with hawthorn and mixed native tree species to provide good
screening and a protective vegetation barrier.
The main parkland area will be skirted with larger trees of Beech, Oak and Horse
chestnut species with Ornamental species added to provide a contrast, and autumnal
colour. Shrub and grasses will be used to provide groundcover and underplanting.
Extensive bulb planting will be carried out to provide early spring colour with Tulips,
daffodils, bluebells, crocus being planted in large groupings.

VIEW LOOKING SOUTH – PUBLIC SPACE A

VIEW LOOKING SOUTH EAST – PUBLIC AREA A

Public area (B)

Located adjacent to the rail way line to the rear of apartment Block 5. This area
encompasses an area of 739 msq. Bounded by apartment blocks 4 & 5 and near the
railway line this area requires screening. It is proposed to plant a new tree copse
parallel to the rail track to reinforce existing planting and enhance screening.
Specimen tree planting will be carried out in a linear line parallel to Apartment block 5
with additional specimens in front of apartment block 4. The main area will be kept in PUBLIC SPACE AREA C
lawn to provide a recreational area.
Mixed grasses and bulbs will be used to create a sway of planting adjacent to
apartment 5. Climbers will be planted to screen bin storage areas, with trellis screens
located to obscure their view. Additional benches for public seating will be located in
accessible areas away from bin storage.

Public area (C)

Is located centrally on site and occupies an area of 934 msq. This area provides a
central open green space and is visually important as you exit the site heading south
east. The main emphasis of the landscape proposals here was to maintain the open
flow through the site, and to provide a focal point of high quality, drawing your view SEATING AREA – AREA C
towards the new sky line. The shape and flow to the area is based on the meandering
path of the River Slaney. This will be reflected within the block planting scheme. A
central seating area with modern contemporary seating structures is located at a Public area (D)
central point of the green space, but also central to the view up the avenue creating Public area D encompasses an area of 2610 msq providing a buffer zone adjacent to
a sculptural feature that is functional and contemporary, requiring little or no the natural wildlife habitat. The main landscape emphasis along this area is to provide
maintenance. a protective zone to the wildlife area, while creating a rural landscape for public
This area will have a varied array of tree and hedge planting, with trees planted enjoyment.
throughout to green up this space, to soften the new skyline. Extensive native trees and hawthorn hedgerows will be planted by the security fence.
Wildflower meadow grassland will form part of the fringe with maintained grass verges
sweeping out to the pathways. Extensive tree planting will be carried out adjacent to
the public path. New seating areas will be provided for public use.

Public area (E)

Area E ( 510msq) is located perpendicular to the protected zone at the end of a long
avenue.
We have carried the same theme through this area as we had in area C. The central
area is kept open to allow a clear line of site through the green space, towards the
Slaney. Block planting will create meandering elongated flows through the space.
Tree planting will give height and screen the building forms. Hard landscape seating
areas will be constructed from Split stone caged within Gabion baskets and dressed in
new oak sleeper seating, shaped with pencil edges to allow dual vista – outward or
inward views. Extensive herbaceous planting with mixed native bulb planting will form proposed will be carried out under the guidance of the ecologist and in line with the
seasonal colour and an important wildlife habitat for Bees and pollinators. recommendations as outlined within the ecology report.
All construction works will be confined to areas away from this area, all required work
within this area is to be carried out under the strict supervision and guidance of the
ecologist.

VIEW SOUTH- AREA E NEW OTTER -POND SECTION SCHEMATIC

Public area (F) Gravel pit

Area (F) ( 2620 msq ) is the second largest area of public space, it is also the most The existing gravel pit on site, containing the plant common Cudweed ( Filago Vulgaris
sensitive. bordering the proposed Otter pond. Having taken advice from the ecologist and other Calcicolous plants, will be recreated at the north end of the site. A flat
it was agreed that the public use of this area be directed away from the otter pond. gravel bed with a south facing bank will be created and protected by the fence line
To achieve this, it is proposed to heavily plant a cordon around the proposed pond to provide a suitable habitat for common cudweed and other wildflowers to grow.
location, and to add additional island tree planting to break up this space. The gravel bed and banks will be maintained by annual strimming and light
A larger usable area will be set aside to the south, for ball play and walking. Seating scarification to prevent encroachment by scrub species. Gravel banks will also be
areas will not be in this area to prevent late night congregating, and unsocial created near the pond to provide additional shielding. Ref to ecologist report for more detail
behaviour. Light selection and location is to be agreed with the ecologist to provide
the optimum achievable ambience, that least disturbs the wildlife population, or
interferes with their natural day to day activities.
A more detailed report has been carried out by the ecologist on the setting up of the
pond habitat area and its relocation. From a landscape perspective all works
Filago Vulgaris

A new platform ‘Bird Hyde’ will be introduced to overlook the River Slaney. This will
provide a viewing platform for the public to enjoy the views to the river without
encroaching onto the preserved lands.
This platform will be constructed in accordance with the Architects specification, in
association with the ecologist -in order to minimise the impact on the existing habitat,
availing of the best views.

This Bird Hyde will be partly screened by extensive tree planting and over time will Plans, Elevations & Section
become part of the Landscape.
Public area (G)

Area G is located to the south eastern section of the site. It has an area of (495 msq )
consisting mainly of maintained lawn areas for recreational play. Tree planting is
located adjacent to pavements, with the central areas reflecting the sweeping view
theme running throughout the site. Planting will be block planting style with mixes of
herbaceous and ornamental grasses. Bulbs will be planted throughout the area to
provide seasonal colour. Benches and seating will be gabion basket split stone, with
Oak sleepers as in Area E.

GABION BASKET SEATING – PROVIDING DRYSTONE WALL HABITATS FOR SMALL

INVERTIBRATES

VIEW SOUTH- AREA G. LOOKING WEST

Public area (H) interest. Plant form type and texture will add to the tranquillity feel of the location.
Feature rocks strategically placed will create natural sculptures, that have
multifunctional use.
Area (H) is a mixed area, providing additional carparking space for apartments and
Specimen tree planting will draw your eye skywards and soften the building form.
household use. From a landscape perspective it is a key area that contains a buffer
zone of existing mature mixed scrub, protecting the reed and grass marginal beds to Modern contemporary exposed polished concrete seating will create functional
the west. It is proposed to heavily plant all along the existing scrub retaining the existing sculptures that sit within the landscape, with minimum maintenance requirement.
vegetation and habitat. This area provides an excellent opportunity to plant a mix of Grasses, and mixed herbaceous planting will provide the basis for ground cover with
evergreen and deciduous trees with wide band planting creating a secondary buffer extensive natural bulb planting throughout to give early seasonal colour.
zone to the reed beds and screening the Irish rail tracks from view looking west and the
development looking east. These spaces also contain public parking bays with 48 parking bays close to
apartment Block 2 and an additional 63 parking bays at Block 3.
Maintained grass margins will border the new planting with seasonal colour provided
by native bulb planting. Ground cover planting of mixed native grasses and sedges will
promote wildlife establishment and bio diversity.

Public areas (I & J)

Located to the rear of apartment blocks 2 &3 these open spaces mirror each other.
Their design is to create open areas for public use, with visual interest from a height.
The spaces reflect areas for social meeting and gathering, with large public seating
areas massed in central locations. Accessed by a myriad of assorted textured surfaces
both in soft and hard landscape forms. Gravel pathways defined by timber edging.
Intermixed with curved grass pathways, and block planting swathes provide areas of
 To the street side of Apartment blocks 2 & 3 a formal street scape will be created with
Mixed car parking bays – defined by grey and charcoal brick paviours (Kilsaran or
similar) Country style kerbing, and Shelbourne silver granite paving Flags.
Tree Grills- “Hart cast Iron” or similar will soften the car parking areas creating sleek
public space for access to the adjoining areas.

SEATING AREAS FORMAL AND INFORMAL

Avenues.

All avenues will have linear tree line planting each side of the carriageway.
Tree grills will be used within hard landscape surfaces to soften parking bays and large
pathway junctions. Where junctions require clear line of site for Vehicular traffic, trees
are not to be planted within the required line of view.

Private gardens.
Front gardens, In general front gardens as defined in the architects layout. Walls and
site boundaries as detailed in wall ‘Type’ and details.
(See architects plans).
Each site will have either off street parking, or communal parking as defined. Low
hedgerows of Beech, Escalonia, or Privat will subdivide front gardens creating a living
fence.
Tree planting will be incorporated into front gardens where possible, or form part of Topsoil for use in all landscape areas shall be subject to the inspection and approval of
Avenue planting, where Avenue style has preference, i.e apartment blocks. the landscape architect before spreading.
Topsoil will be premium grade topsoil of high intrinsic fertility, loamy texture and good
structure and shall conform to BS3882. It shall be free from pernicious weeds including
Rear gardens,
dock, thistle, stinging nettle, ragwort and couch grass. It shall not have been
Rear gardens will be fenced or walled depending on the location and adjoining compacted and shall not be in an inert state.
nature of the site, External boundaries will be block and render walls, internal timber
It shall be acidic, pH 5.5¬6.5 and free from stones over 50mm in diameter. It shall be
fences or as defined by the architect.
free from subsoil, sods, roots of trees and shrubs, plastics, metals, paper, brick, concrete
All private gardens will have small terraces, with lawn areas cultivated and seeded. or any other foreign object. Topsoil shall be from the original surface layer of grassland
Tree planting to rear gardens will be carried out to provide screening between or cultivated land, to a maximum depth of 200 mm. Soils from woodland, heathland,
properties. bog or contaminated land will not be acceptable. Do not strip from under the canopy
of any tree, nor closer than 4 metres to a hedge.
All properties will have Bin storage facilities, and gated access.
The organic content shall not be less than 5% (dry weight). Where the soil contains
more than 60% sand, the organic matter shall not be less than 6% (dry weight).
Public footpaths and roadways will be as per the engineer’s design and specification.
TOP SOILING
Tactile paving to be incorporated – see engineers design.
Earthworks are to be completed, debris removed from site and formation approved by
Services and drainage – see engineers design. the Landscape Architect before any topsoil is spread.
Topsoil shall not be spread over any area of the site indicated until preliminary ripping
operations are complete. Once the topsoil has been spread, no access will be
allowed for construction plant and machinery. Site preparation and soiling operations
shall take place only in suitable dry site and weather conditions. Any material spoiled
by work in unsuitable conditions shall be made good at the Contractor's expense.

LANDSCAPE SPECIFICATIONS: Final grading is to be carried out to ensure a true specified level and slope and to
SUBSOIL FORM ATION
avoid dishing or other depressions where water may collect.

Formation levels shall allow for the following depth of Class 5A topsoil, after settlement The use of a heavy roller to roll out humps will not be permitted and any area that
and cultivations: becomes unduly compacted during the grading operations shall be loosened by
forcing or harrowing. The level of the topsoil is to be at least 30 mm above all paved
Grass Areas: 200 mm. Shrub Planting 350 mm
areas to allow for shrinkage or settlement.
Make up excessive depth with subsoil material before top soiling. This material shall be
clean subsoil (soil layer extending between the natural topsoil and the parent
material), free draining, free from rubbish, building contamination, large stones/rocks
greater than 250mm. Subsoiling operations shall be carried out in layers with each layer FINISHED LEVELS
being lightly consolidated with a maximum depth of 250¬300mm per layer. Localised hollows and mounds are to be levelled out and areas so finished that they
Allow for topsoil to stand 30 mm proud of all kerbs, paths, edgings and manhole covers drain to hard standing areas or elsewhere as indicated.
etc. Where the required grades, shaping of ground, cross falls etc. are not shown precisely
TOPSOIL ¬GENERAL on the drawings, the Contractor shall obtain directions from the Landscape Architect.
All levels to be approved by the Landscape Architect.
Topsoil for Tree Pits Bundles of plants shall be marked in conformity with the relevant part of B.S. 3936. The
contractor shall replace any plants that are found not to conform to the labels. An
Planting pits for standard trees will be dug and backfilled with Class 5B topsoil by the
inspection of plants shall be undertaken prior to planting to ensure quality control.
landscape sub-contractor. Volume of topsoil to be as follows: Extra Heavy Standard
Trees 1.2 cubic metres Select Standard Trees 0.6 cubic metres Multistem trees 0.6 cubic
metres EXTRA HE AVY STANDARD & SELECT STANDARD TREES
Extra standard trees shall have a total height of 4.5 to 5.0 metres and a girth of 14‐
DEBRIS 16cm at 1m above ground level or as specified. Select standard trees will have a total
height of 3.0 to 3.5 metres and a girth of 10‐12 cm at 1m above ground level or as
Provide a tip to be agreed with the Engineer for disposal of subsoil excavated from
specified.
tree pits, and for stones, rubble and rubbish removed from grass and planting areas
during cultivation by landscape sub-contractor. Trees shall have a sturdy, reasonably straight stem, a well‐defined and upright central
leader, with branches growing out of the stem with reasonable symmetry, or a well‐
REINSTATEMENT WORK
balanced branching head according to the Schedule. The crown and root systems
Reinstate all ground driven over and otherwise disturbed to even flowing gradients.
shall be well formed and in keeping with the nature of the species. Roots shall be in
Match reinstated levels to those of surrounding ground. Finished levels shall be free of
reasonable balance with the crown and shall be conducive to successful
humps, depressions and vehicle tracks. Rainwater shall not lie on reinstated ground nor
transplantation.
on adjacent areas.
Trees shall be supplied root‐balled. They shall have been regularly undercut or
PLANTING SPECIFICATION. transplanted. They shall have been lifted carefully to avoid tearing of major roots and
MATERIALS to preserve a substantial proportion of smaller and fibrous roots. Trees shall have been
All plant material shall be good quality nursery stock, free from fungal, bacterial or viral grown on their own roots. Budded or grafted trees will be rejected.
infection, Aphis, Red Spider or other insect pest, and physical damage. It shall comply
with the requirements of Part 1: 1965 Trees and Shrubs section of B.S. 3936, Specification
for Nursery Stock.
All plants shall have been nursery grown in accordance with good practice and shall
SHRUBS
be supplied through the normal channels of the wholesale nursery trade. They shall
have the habit of growth that is normal for the species.
Shrubs shall be of the minimum size specified in the schedules, with several stems
Except for any cultivated varieties or exotic species which do not set viable seed in
originating from or near ground level and of reasonable bushiness, healthy, well grown,
Ireland, all plants shall have been grown from seed.
and with a good root system. Pots or containers shall be as scheduled. Plants shall not
The Contractor will be deemed to have advised his suppliers of the relevant sections of be pot bound, nor with roots deformed or restricted. Bare root material will only be
this specification, including all protection required, at the time of enquiry and shall in all accepted where specified.
cases be liable to replace materials brought on site that are not in accordance with
Bulky Organic Manure/ Mushroom Compost
this specification.
Bulky organic manure shall consist either of spent peat compost, mushroom compost,
SPECIES
as described above, spent hops, or of well-rotted farm manure. Farm manure shall
All plants supplied shall be exactly true to name as shown in the plant schedules. Unless consist of predominantly of faecal matter and shall be free of loose, dry straw and of
stipulated, varieties with variegated or otherwise coloured leaves will not be undigested hay. Manure shall be free of surplus liquid effluent. This shall be used on
accepted, and any plant found to be of this type upon leafing out shall be replaced mounds only. Well spent mushroom compost shall be used in all ornamental planting
by the Contractor at his own expense. areas.
FERTILISERS
Controlled release fertiliser N:P:K 15:9:11 plus trace elements ‐Osmocote plus or similar
approved applied at specified rates. DAM AGE
Fertiliser shall be supplied in sealed bags or containers bearing the manufacturer's Any roots damaged during lifting or transport shall be pruned to sound growth before
name, the net weight and analysis. planting. On completion of planting any broken branches shall be pruned.
STAKES FOR EXTRA HEAVY STANDARD TREES Setting Out
Stakes shall be of peeled Larch, Pine or Douglas Fir, preserved with water‐borne Setting out shall be from figured dimensions where indicated, and otherwise by scaling.
copper‐chromearsenic to I.S. 131, to a net dry salt retention of 5.3 kg per cubic metre
Shrubs and ground covers planted in mass shall be at the spacing indicated on the
of timber. Stakes shall be turned and painted one end. Size shall be 2700 x 75 mm
drawings. Shrubs shall not generally be planted closer to a kerb or to the edge of a
diameter.
planting area than a distance equal to half the spacing indicated for that species.
Set stakes vertically in the pit and drive before planting. Drive stake with a drive‐all,
SITE PREPARATION
wooden maul or cast‐iron headed mell, not with a sledgehammer.
Organic Manure: 50 mm deep Osmocote plus: 75 gm/msq Cultivate beds 225 mm
TREE TIES
deep, incorporating ameliorants evenly. Remove stones, rubbish over 50 mm dia.
Tree ties shall be of rubber, P.V.C. or proprietary fabric laminate composition, and shall
be strong and durable enough to hold the tree securely in all weather conditions for a
period of three years. They shall be flexible enough to allow proper tightening of the EXTRA HE AVY STANDARD TREE PLANTING

tie. Ties shall be min. 40 min. wide for standard trees. Provide a simple collar, free of Excavate tree pits to 1 cubic metres volume (.9 m diameter x .9 m deep). The base of
rough or serrated edges, to prevent chafing. Provide for subsequent adjustment of the the pit shall be broken up to a depth of 15 cm and glazed sides roughened. Remove
tie either by means of a buckle (nail tie to stake immediately behind it) or by leaving subsoil, stones and rubbish to tip on site as directed by the Architect/Engineer. Supply
heads of securing nails slightly proud, to permit easy extraction and repositioning. All and drive 2nr stakes.
nails shall be galvanised. For planting in areas of made up ground, load and carry topsoil from stockpile on site.
In undisturbed ground, backfill with excavated material. Mix the following ameliorants
PROTECTION
evenly throughout the topsoil while it is stacked beside the pit. (Quantities are
calculated for a pit of the specified dimensions):
The interval between the lifting of stock at the nursery and planting on site is to be kept
to an absolute minimum. Plants shall be protected from drying out and from damage ORGANIC MANURE:
in transport. All stock awaiting planting on site shall be stored in a sheltered place 0.047 cubic m (equivalent to manure 6 cm deep over 1 m dia. of tree pit).
protected from wind and frost, from drying out and from pilfering. Bare rooted plants
Osmocote plus: 250 gm
not immediately required shall be heeled‐in in a prepared trench, the bundles of
plants first having been opened, the plants separated and each group separately Trees shall be planted at the same depth as in nursery, as indicated by the soil mark on
heeled‐in and clearly labelled. The roots shall be covered with moist peat or soil and the stem of the trees. They shall be centred in the planting pit and planting upright. The
shall be kept moist until planted. Pots shall not be removed until plants have been roots shall be spread to take up their normal disposition. Fit tie.
carried to their planting station. Plants packed in polythene must be stored in shade. PLANTING OF SHRUBS AND C.G. TRANSPLANTS
All forest transplants and bare root shrubs shall be wrapped in polythene from the time Remove all plastic and non‐degradable wrappings and containers before planting.
of lifting to conserve moisture. Except when heeled‐in, they shall be protected in Make four vertical cuts with a sharp knife on the quadrants through the edge of C.G.
polythene at all times until planted into their final position on site. rootballs to sever girdling roots. Excavate hole to min. 10 cm greater diameter than the
root spread, and to a depth to allow planting to same depth as in the nursery. Spread
Plants shall be handled with care at all times, including lifting in and despatch from the
out roots of bare root species. Backfill in layers of not more than 10 cm, firming each
nursery. Plants or bundles of plants shall not be tossed, dropped of subjected to any
layer and on completion.
stress likely to break fine roots.
REPLACEMENTS During last stages of cultivation, apply fertiliser evenly over the full area of seeding in
The planting will be inspected in September following planting. Any tree or shrub found two equal passes in transverse directions, and incorporate into the seed bed up to 30
to have died from any cause except as provided below or the work of other mm deep.
contractors shall be replaced by the contractor at his own expense. Replacement FIRST CUT
planting shall conform in all respects with this Specification, including all specified
Before cutting, pick off stones above the maximum diameter specified on the
excavation, provision and incorporation of all fertilizers and ameliorants, and weed
operations schedule. Roll if specified on the operations schedule to firm sod. The time
killer treatments.
for cutting and the height of the cut shall be as specified in the operations schedule.
Failures will not be charged to the Contractor in the following cases:
Damage by hares or rabbits, where not protected by fencing or shelters.
Failure solely due to prolonged dry weather, except in where the contractor will be
QUALITY
responsible for watering.
The quality of the grass sward shall be even throughout with a constant sward and
Losses due to theft, vandalism or disturbance by other contractors .
colour. The contractor shall make good any areas not of this quality. Make up and
seed over any depressions which develop after seeding. Re cultivate and re‐seed any
Persistence of weed in planted areas will be regarded as a contributory cause of areas which fail to germinate, or which die off. MAINTENANCE SPECIFICATION
failure due to drought. Prolonged dry weather will not exonerate the Contractor if the Care of Newly Planted Trees Young trees will need regular attention to ensure
scheduled aftercare operations have not been carried out as programmed. establishment. The most important operation is to keep the soil around the base of the
tree free from weeds or grass and to ensure secure and correct staking.

GRASSING SPECIFICATI ON MAINTENANCE OBJECTIV E

Seed mix 2. Establish a stable and healthily growing tree with a well‐shaped framework for future
FERTILISER growth.
10:10:20, N:P:K ‐supplied in bags bearing the names of the manufacturer, the analysis MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS
of the contents and the net weight. The contractor shall produce to the Landscape a) Maintain a 1 m diameter circle of plant‐free soil around the base of each isolated
Architect the original delivery docket or invoice stating the quantity supplied for these tree by hoeing or the use of approved herbicide other than a residual.
works.
Allow for hoeing up of soil once every 4 weeks in the growing season (5 times per
Weather year). Allow for herbicide treatment once in the winter or spring and 3 additional
All work to soil shall be carried out in dry weather, and when the soil can be reduced treatments.
to a friable condition, avoiding smearing or panning, and rutting and compaction by Note: In some areas this operation may be replaced by the application of bark mulch
tractors. as ground cover.
FINISHES b) Cut back any tall vegetation that is threatening to shade or smother the young tree
Topsoil shall stand 30 mm proud of manholes, paths and kerbs after cultivation and (i.e. taller vegetation growing from outside the 1 m weed free area). Allow for cutting
firming. back regularly (3/4 times a year).

FINAL GRADING c) Provisional item Water the newly planted trees throughout the summer months (May
During cultivations, grade with a blade, lute or grader, to produce even, flowing surfaces, free from to August) as required after any period of 4 weeks without significant rainfall (less than
local humps and depressions. 5 mm). Apply sufficient water to thoroughly wet the top 150 mm of soil around the tree
roots. This will normally require approximately 10 litres for a seedling or whip and 20 litres
FERTILISER
for a standard tree, include transport of water to the site.
d) Check stakes and ties for firmness and support and adjust as necessary. Allow for Hard landscape Material Palette.
checking twice a year, preferably in late spring and late summer.
e) Firm the soil around the roots to ensure that the plant is securely planted in the Paving: Shelbourne Paving 600*400*50mm in Silver – Street Scapes.
ground and upright. Allow for firming once in the spring after planting.
f) Formative prune to remove any dead, diseased or damaged shoots and create a
balanced form for future growth. Allow for pruning once in the season after planting. Kerbing : Tara exposed aggregate Kerb 915*250*125 Silver granite – Street Scapes

SHRUB BEDS GENERAL

The borders must be kept weed free, particularly of perennial weeds, to allow planting Paths: Concrete to Engineer’s specification.
to give early cover. However, the plants may be required to be thinned so that the
shrubs that are retained are able to achieve an attractive form. This may involve
Car parking bays: Melifont Paving natural with Charcoal banding and line delineation.
removing the intermediate plants soon after shoots are touching.

Tree Grilles: Hartcrest tree grill and support frame. HC800/HC1000

MAINTENANCE OBJECTIV E
Maintain shrub growth to cover as much as possible of the bed area and allowing the Seating : Hartcrest HC2000
individual plants to achieve as nearly as possible their natural form. Maintain the
borders free
Bin storage : Hartcrest HC2055

OTHER ITEMS
Cycle racks : Stainless steel Hartcrest HC2085
Litter Clearance ‐General
Maintenance Objective
Collect and remove from the site, all extraneous litter and rubbish on a regular within
landscape basis so that its presence is not detrimental to the appearance of the site.
(This means that the landscape should be free from litter after each visit to site).

MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS
a) Collect and remove to the contractor's tip all extraneous rubbish, not arising from
maintenance works, which is detrimental to the appearance of the site. This rubbish to
include stones (over 50mm diameter which may be buried), bricks, debris, paper,
confectionery and other wrappings, bottles, cans and plastic containers.
Allow for this operation to be carried out at regular intervals based in conjunction with
other maintenance visits and operations.
Gabion basket seating and bin enclosures.

Trellis screening to hide bin storage areas