Davis Landscape Architecture provided landscape architecture services for the Equinix data centre development in the north of Manchester. The 2.98 Ha site forms part of a technically complex data centre environment. It includes an existing refurbished building, balancing pond, parking, servicing areas, access routes and pedestrian circulation.
Our commission covered the landscape design from developed design through to technical design. In addition, we prepared landscape information for the detailed planning submission and tender of the external works and soft landscape package.
The landscape strategy establishes a robust and functional framework for the site. It responds to the operational requirements of a major technology and data infrastructure facility. At the same time, it improves the quality and appearance of the external environment.
The design coordinates site boundaries, enclosures, paving materials, street furniture and cycle storage. It also incorporates bin storage, lighting, planting and landscape levels. Consequently, the proposals create a coordinated landscape response across the wider site.
As part of the planning work, we prepared a landscape general arrangement plan and illustrative sections. We also produced a landscape design statement to explain the overall design approach. These documents supported the planning submission and the discharge of landscape-related planning conditions.
We then developed the landscape proposals into a detailed tender package. This package included a landscape general arrangement plan and vegetation removal and retention plan. Furthermore, we prepared a full planting plan and schedule, soils plan and detail reference plan.
The technical package also included typical landscape construction details and an NBS specification. Together, these documents provided the information required to tender the external works and soft landscape package.
Particular attention focused on integrating soft landscape and planting within the highly engineered data centre environment. The planting strategy responds to ecological and arboricultural constraints. It also provides a durable and appropriate landscape setting for the development.
Furthermore, the landscape design helps integrate large-scale data centre infrastructure within its wider commercial context. The proposals balance operational requirements with landscape quality and visual amenity. This approach demonstrates the value of landscape architecture within complex technology infrastructure projects.
Working alongside Bryden Wood and the wider project team, Davis Landscape Architecture developed a coordinated landscape solution for the 2.98 Ha Equinix data centre site. Overall, the project progressed from planning design through to detailed tender information for the external works.
Landscape Institutes Work Stages: 3 to 4b
Client: Equinix
Architect: Bryden Wood