Landscape Planning and Design to Reduce the Impacts of Urban Heat Island Effect in East Anglia

Cities in East Anglia are getting hotter than surrounding rural areas because of the Urban Heat Island effect. Temperatures build up due to extensive hard surfaces that absorb and store heat, such as asphalt and paving. The effects can be seen and experienced in:

People’s health: More heat means higher risks of heatstroke and breathing problems, especially for older adults.

Nature: Plants and wildlife struggle with heat and less water, threatening local biodiversity.

Water systems: Hotter weather stresses water supplies and increases flood risks.

Daily life: Roads, transport, and energy use are all affected by rising urban temperatures.

How can we cool our cities to protect nature and enhance human wellbeing?

 Plant trees and create a quality green open space network to enhance shading and natural cooling.

 Include green and blue roofs to reduce heat absorption and improve insulation and amenity value.

 Design with biodiversity and wildlife in mind to ensure ecological resilience.

 Design water-friendly landscapes that manage floods and drought

 Design homes and streets with trees and vegetation for attractive environments that provide cooling and shading.

 Involve communities in design and caring for green areas to keep cities healthy and resilient.

By working together and designing greener, cooler cities, East Anglia can beat the heat, protect wildlife, and keep people safe as the climate changes.

CONTACT US FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RELATED TO:

1. GARDEN DESIGN TO IMPROVE WELLBEING.

2. GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE DESIGN.

3. SUSTAINABLE URBAN DRAINAGE SYSTEMS (SuDS).

4. HABITAT ENHANCEMENTS.

5. DESIGNING FOR WILDLIFE.