Urban Nature Project Set to Transform London Gardens

Londoners and visitors alike will soon have the chance to “fall in love with nature on their doorsteps,” thanks to the Urban Nature Project being developed at the Natural History Museum in London.

The project will transform the museum’s sprawling five-acre garden into an urban wildlife hub. This initiative is designed to facilitate research, enhance conservation efforts, and raise awareness of the natural world, particularly among young visitors. “The Urban Nature Project opens the door for young people to fall in love with the nature on their doorsteps and develop a lifelong concern for the world’s wild places,” said the renowned broadcaster Sir David Attenborough, emphasizing the urgency of the project amidst current environmental challenges.

Attenborough pointed out that many species, such as hedgehogs, were once common sights in gardens but are now seldom seen by children. He stressed the importance of connecting youth with nature, as understanding and nurturing wildlife fosters a lifelong commitment to conservation.

The Urban Nature Project has been in development for 25 years and is expected to be completed by 2023. The gardens will feature fully accessible green spaces that allow visitors to explore various habitats, including woodland and grassland. Moreover, there will be a dedicated wildlife garden serving as a sanctuary for native plants, birds, insects, and animals, including the Greyface Dartmoor sheep.

A brand-new cast of Dippy, the museum’s iconic diplodocus, will oversee the east gardens. Plants and fossils will narrate the planet’s geological history. Additionally, plans include an outdoor learning center and a “living lab,” where scientists, volunteers, and the public can collaborate on sustainability projects throughout the year.

“By 2030, nine out of ten of us will live in urban areas, meaning nature is being pushed into a corner as cities expand,” said Clare Matterson, the museum’s executive director of engagement. The Urban Nature Project aims to inspire people to reconnect with the nature around them while helping to reverse the ongoing declines in wildlife.

While 2023 may seem distant, stay informed about the project’s advancements. In the meantime, explore the incredible outdoor locations that the UK has to offer.