The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh - Biomes Initiative
Sector: Heritage
Framework: SCAPE Scotland Civil Engineering
Client: Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
“Restoring the palm houses and the other glasshouses will give us assurance and protection for generations to come.”
Fiona Inches
Glasshouse Manager, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh has a history of 351 years and serves as a scientific centre for the study of plants, their diversity, and conservation.
The Edinburgh Biomes project will restore the A-Listed Victorian Palm Houses and the 1960s 'front-range' Glasshouses at the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh. It will also support global plant science and conservation by protecting 13,500 plant species, including many that are endangered or extinct in their native habitats.
Balfour Beatty, operating through the SCAPE Scotland Civil Engineering framework, delivers extensive refurbishment and restoration work on the Palm Houses and Glasshouses. This project represents the most significant endeavour in the gardens' history, ensuring the glasshouses continue to provide a safe environment for the Garden’s invaluable plant collection.
The project team is tasked with repairing the deteriorating stonework, and ironwork structures, and replacing the glass and windows to preserve this historic landmark, ensuring that the Glasshouses continue to provide a safe environment for the Garden’s priceless plant collection.
There will be a comprehensive plan that involves a series of phased work projects. This will include the installation of district heating, as well as high-voltage and low-voltage power, gas, water, and communication services. These installations will support the connection of buildings and glasshouses to a future energy centre.
Upon completion, the project will enhance and preserve the Palm Houses and Glasshouses, ensuring their longevity for future generations. It will also improve the energy efficiency of the Garden and support the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh in its transition to net zero.
In collaboration with:
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