Beale Park
Beale Park comprises some 400 acres of beautiful parkland and water meadows along the banks of the Thames and is famous for its bird sanctuary which houses many rare and endangered species from all over the world.... continues below
As part of some major redevelopments four new large aviaries have been built, each representing a different geographical region of the world. Pantiles was asked to design and landscape the interior of the largest of these structures, measuring 27 x 15 metres, based upon an Australasian theme. Working within a specific budget, our aim was to create an interesting and educational experience for the public, balanced with providing a suitable environment for the aviary's inhabitants.
An undulating winding pathway from entrance to exit was constructed using compacted Breedon hoggin, a surface suitable for pedestrians and wheelchair users. Level changes were incorporated to give more interest to the different areas and emphasise the planting. A shallow pond/watering hole for the birds was excavated, and a waterfall effect created providing the refreshing sound of flowing water. In keeping with the planting theme, graduated Dicksonia trunks were used to retain the soil and bark mulch in the planted areas at the entrance, and also placed horizontally to edge the rest of the path at ground level.
The main aim of the planting was to create a natural and secluded habitat for the birds, but not so dense that visibility inside and outside the aviary was difficult for the public. All plants used in the scheme are native to Australasia. An existing pollarded Populus was retained as a feature, nicely embraced by the path. Dicksonia antarctica and various ferns were positioned along either side of the pathway leading up to this tree, creating a lush and tropical feel.