
The initial Quad redesign plan, which has already received consent from Camden Council, involved the removal of three trees to provide clear accessible routes between the Quad and Wilkins building. It also included the planting of nine new trees and improvements to biodiversity, alongside valuable improvements to allow for better student, staff and visitor experience. However, following feedback from staff and students, supporting the preservation of the ginkgo trees, the architects were challenged to re-evaluate, and an alternate scheme has now been developed which retains them, as well as delivering important accessible routes.
The architects have collaborated closely with UCL Sustainability, as well as experts and academics from the Bartlett over the last 18 months, to ensure the Quad is a fitting entranceway to UCL, including improvements to accessibility and biodiversity.
Hannah Milner, Director for Capital Projects, commented, "We are committed to creating a campus that not only meets the needs of our community but also respects and preserves our natural environment. The proposed redesign to preserve the trees underscores UCL’s dedication to listening to the voices of its community where possible, whilst continuing to place inclusivity at the forefront of the project."
As this redesign will be a change to UCL’s current approval for the overarching biodiversity plan, UCL Estates will seek revised consent for changes to the approved scheme, whilst the works commence on site. This Great care has been taken to protect and preserve the Quad’s architectural and cultural heritage and is about creating a campus that reflect UCL’s values and aspirations for the next 200 years.
For more information, which will continue to be updated throughout the project, plus access to our FAQs, please visit the Bicentennial Physical Legacy Works webpage.