Ports of Jersey has approved the construction of a temporary living wall at the Airport, to create a vertical garden that screens the work currently underway on dismantling the former hangar.
The living wall is built from strong, lightweight, waterproof panels which contain dozens of planting pockets. The wall creates a vertical garden which attracts insect life and encourages biodiversity. Plants have been chosen to attract insects and to maximise the visual benefit for passengers, while also minimising the risk of attracting larger wildlife that could impact on aerodrome operations.
Ports of Jersey received planning permission to dismantle the former hangar in April 2024 and work is now underway. The aim is to complete the dismantling of the entire structure during the first quarter of 2025.
Rok, which was the successful bidder for the contract, is dismantling the building in partnership with the Jersey Demolition Company. The two companies have been conducting surveys and condition reports, and a specialist company carried out an asbestos survey to ensure its safe removal.
Airport Operations Director, Ashley Maggs, said: “I’m pleased that RoK have installed a living wall while the work is underway, promoting sustainability and well-being and providing our arriving passengers with a view of natural vegetation as they leave the airport. We will be evaluating the site and considering its future use, once the Airport’s future operational requirements are finalised.”