Ruskin Square Green Space Spurs District Growth

The 2016 revitalization of Ruskin Square in Croydon, a neighborhood now featuring a number of new developments, installs Silva Cells for hardscape tree support

“Soil cells… extend beneath the paving to provide each tree in the square with 25 cubic meters of soil volume, creating an optimum growing environment in this hard, urban setting to allow the trees to thrive and mature over the long term.”

-Sudsdrain Project Case Study

Ruskin Square

Number of Silva Cells: 384 (2x)
Number of Trees: 14
Soil Volume per Tree: 25 m³
Project Designer: J&L Gibbons
Project Contractor: Gavin Jones Limited
Installation: Summer 2016

Project Overview

Part of the East Croydon masterplan, an initiative to rejuvenate the area adjacent to the district’s well-trafficked transit station, the Ruskin Square project — at the heart of the neighborhood — sought to create a new central gathering space for residents, workers, and commuters alike. The new hardscape plaza embraced Silva Cells as a method for supporting the 14 pin oak trees, which, thanks to their access to lightly compacted soil, are thriving and offering visitors a welcome outdoor green space (which has itself helped spur more local redevelopment).

Install/After

Green Space as Catalyst

The East Croydon district has seen a lot of impressive redevelopment since the completion of the Ruskin Square project, a testament to the power of successful green space. Studies show that people will spend more time in shady, tree-covered outdoor space — this increased traffic makes the neighborhood more desirable for both businesses and residential growth.

The New Ruskin Square

Soil Volume

One of the most influential factors in the success or failure of an urban tree is its access to lightly compacted soil. This is something J&L Gibbons prioritised from the outset, providing a rooting environment in which each of the new plaza trees are accessing 25 cubic meters of soil (or nearly 900 cubic feet). This allows space for the roots to organically expand, offering the best chance for these trees to remain healthy and vibrant with large, shady canopies.