Liverpool City Council has approved plans for a new nature-led public garden on the former Royal Liverpool University Hospital site, marking the first project from BAM UK & Ireland’s exclusive collaboration with the Eden Project.

The scheme will deliver a publicly accessible green space featuring native planting, trees and wildlife-friendly elements, alongside new walking and cycling routes. Designed to support healing and quiet reflection, the biophilic landscape focuses on predominantly native species to attract pollinators and promote long-term ecological health.

BAM UK & Ireland has worked with NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool and the Eden Project to embed nature-positive principles into a forward-looking healthcare environment. Mark Gibson said: "Our collaboration with the Eden Project and our partnership with NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool allows us to create something truly special for the city. This project shows how natural landscapes can play a central role in improving health and wellbeing. Receiving planning approval marks an important step and we look forward to bringing this vision to life."

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James Sumner, Chief Executive of NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group, said: "We are pleased to be part of this fantastic partnership between BAM, the Eden Project, and the New Hospital Programme. This green space will be a valuable addition to the ongoing development of our hospital site and will be a huge benefit to our patients, visitors, staff, and the local environment."

Dan James, Commercial Director of Eden Project, said: "We're delighted to see this project receive planning approval. We look forward to working with BAM and the NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool to demonstrate how nature can play a central role in supporting health and wellbeing, creating spaces that are restorative, inclusive, and rich in biodiversity."

Intended as a model for healthcare settings, the project will provide an accessible, biodiverse environment to bolster both emotional and physical wellbeing. It will also create opportunities for community participation, education and volunteering, with the Eden Project shaping programmes that help residents explore the role of nature in health.

Construction is due to begin after final preparatory work. Delivery partners have pledged close engagement with local stakeholders, including clear communication with nearby residents, collaboration with community groups and ongoing oversight to ensure the space meets long-term community needs.

The Royal Liverpool Hospital nature garden is expected to set a benchmark for integrating natural environments into major public infrastructure, creating places that are both attractive and beneficial for generations to come.