Living Wall for M&S Newcastle Store

A living wall could transform part of the North East's biggest stopping street into a green oasis.

Bosses at Marks & Spencer have unveiled ambitions plans for their Newcastle store, which would make it into the one of the most visually impressive and eco-friendly in the region. Thousands of plants will form a 'living wall' habitat for birds and insects, right in the middle of Northumberland Street. The plans would dramatically change the look of the high street giant's city centre premises. And the store will be one of the first in the country to carry out the pioneering scheme, which is part of plans to make Newcastle a greener city.

Coun Ged Bell, cabinet member for investment and development at Newcastle City Council, said: "We're delighted that Marks & Spencer is investing in the Northumberland Street store, which fits with our plans to develop a package of improvements across the city centre, in partnership with NE1. This is part of our ambitious Re-Newcastle programme of investment, focused on reshaping and renewing our city, creating lasting benefits for Newcastle's economy."

The 167 square metre green wall, constructed from nearly 16,000 individual plants, is set to be the most striking development of the revamp. The wall will not only be visual for the high street, but will also attract wildlife, providing a habitat for birds and insects.

It's the first large store in an ongoing programme to refit sustainable features to existing Marks & Spencer outlets.

Also see our contactpage for more information.