Down to Earth showcase vision for Derby’s nature-based regeneration

Earlier this week we unveiled our project that seeks to revolutionise Derby’s urban environment through nature-based regeneration.

We invited over three hundred community figures and business leaders to see Jamie and Eden Project co-founder Sir Tim Smit launch a breathtaking new nature-based vision for the city.?

Whilst on stage during the event, Sir Tim said: “I’m genuinely hugely excited by the opportunities in Derby and best of all I think most of the ideas are already here.”

“If we’re able to get our conductors batons out from time to time and participate then we’re very excited to”.

Attendees were introduced to spectacular visuals of our plans for nine city centre sites, produced by local company Katapult and the world class team behind the Eden Project.

Amongst an array of stunning designs, we showed off concepts for a huge new city centre wetland, spectacular roof top garden at the Cock Pit, innovative new urban farm at Riverlights and a stunning secret garden bar at the end of Bold Lane.

Speaking about our vision, Jamie said “Imagine having the largest rooftop garden in the UK, in Derby, connected to an Urban Farm right next to it, connected to another proper space for kids to play and learn.

We want to revolutionise this city, just like they did back during the enlightenment. This can be a new enlightenment, driven by us all getting properly connected with nature.”

Following the event, business leaders including Rolls-Royce Chief Executive Officer Warren East, met at Derby’s Museum of Making to discuss how to bring our vision to life in the coming months and years.

Emboldened by public reaction to our broader vision, Down to Earth is currently continuing with its many ongoing community and regenerative projects.

Recently, we planted over one thousand trees in Chellaston and Alvaston in partnership with Derby City Council and Severn Trent Water, as well as running wildly successful workshop events at our current allotment space.

In acknowledgement of its impact, Down to Earth has been nominated for Severn Trent Water’s Community Fund Award, in which we may be awarded ￡20,000 to fund our compost and gardening club.

To vote for us, click here.