We want to mainstream the use of plants on roofs and walls as a contribution to a sustainable Brighton & Hove.

Brighton & Hove Building Green is a voluntary forum, established in 2006 for everyone with an interest in ‘building green’.

Our members include green roof experts, Council officers, architects, nature conservationists, artists, academics and other interested people. We want to encourage developers, green roof companies and others to join as well. James Farrell, a Brighton resident with experience of green roof policy and practice, leads the forum.

What are our objectives?

Brighton & Hove Building Green works to achieve the following:

1. Increase the number of buildings with planted roofs and walls – from small household projects such as sheds, garages, dormers, through to larger commercial schemes
2. Achieve greater public understanding and support for vegetated buildings
3. Promote innovative techniques, including planting that reflects the rich and diverse local wildlife habitats
4. Offer practical advice, demonstrations, study tours, open days, media events and information

To deliver our objectives, we will:

1. Focus on the use of plants on building surfaces – e.g. green (living) roofs, roof gardens, climbing plants and other forms of green wall, and planted balconies and canopies. We won’t actively address wider issues of sustainable procurement, renewable energy generation, etc.
2. Be a positive advocate for all forms of techniques and solutions that deliver the above.
3. Recognise the different drivers for selecting particular greening options, but aim to achieve greening that complements the local needs and environment of the City.

In relating to other organisations we will:

1. Offer support and advice to developers, architects, planners, local politicians, householders, landlords and building owners.
2. Remain independent from but establish a positive dialogue with the Council, (particularly through the Sustainability Commission) and the Local Strategic Partnership, amongst others.
3. Offer advice to planners and decision makers but not comment on individual greening proposals.