The transformation of Derby’s iconic “Derby in Bloom” display at Pentagon Island has now been completed – restoring one of the city’s most recognisable gateway features and creating a vibrant new habitat for local wildlife.
The project, delivered through a partnership between Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), Derby City Council and Down to Earth Derby, has seen the former overgrown site completely replanted with a carefully designed mix of native trees, shrubs and wildflowers.
For more than two decades, the Derby in Bloom display greeted thousands of motorists entering the city each day before becoming increasingly obscured by overgrowth. The completed scheme reintroduces the landmark feature while creating a greener and more sustainable entrance to Derby.
Native species including hawthorn, field maple and wild privet have been planted alongside colourful wildflowers such as foxglove, ox-eye daisy and red campion. As well as creating an attractive display, the planting has been designed to support pollinators, birds and other wildlife while requiring less intensive maintenance.
Brad Worley, BID Manager for Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter BIDs, said: “When we first announced plans to bring Derby in Bloom back, we said we wanted to restore something that people in Derby genuinely cared about. The reaction we received showed just how much affection there is for this landmark.
