Relocating Nature: Europe’s Mega-Project
Elephant & Castle
Working at one of Europe’s most significant urban regeneration schemes, Ruskins was appointed to undertake the specialist transplantation of a large tree to allow ongoing development works at Elephant Park, Elephant & Castle in London, to go ahead.
Working on behalf of Lendlease and Careys, Ruskins was asked to safely relocate and re-establish the tree within a highly active construction environment, ensuring the wider redevelopment programme could continue while preserving a valuable natural asset within the landscape. Completed in 2021, the success of this project is clear today, the accompanying images show the tree thriving in its new location as of 2025.
The project formed part of the wider transformation of Elephant Park, a major mixed-use residential and commercial regeneration scheme, where sustainability and environmental responsibility were key considerations. The regeneration had to retain the mature trees that formed a key element of the site.
A complex tree transplantation strategy
The objective was clear, to successfully transplant a large tree that would otherwise have been lost as part of the development programme. Given the size, age and value of the tree, this required a carefully phased approach to maximise resilience, protect root health and support successful re-establishment.
Ruskins began by root pruning the tree using Air Spade technology, allowing the team to carefully expose and manage the root system with minimal disturbance. This was followed by the application of Soil Biology treatments and mulching, which helped strengthen the root zone, improve soil health and support the tree’s resilience ahead of relocation.
The tree was then carefully watered, monitored and managed throughout the spring and summer months to ensure it remained healthy and stable before the transplant process progressed.
Results
The final relocation took place during the following autumn. Ruskins rootballed the tree and installed a specialist floor to support the lift. Given the complexity of the site and the need to minimise disruption, the move was scheduled for a Saturday when the wider construction site was significantly quieter.
Using a very large crane, the tree was lifted on its floor and carefully transferred onto a low-loader lorry. It was then transported around the development site to its new planting location, where it was unloaded and replanted under controlled conditions.
Challenges
This was a technically complex project carried out within one of the busiest regeneration environments in the UK. Works were undertaken directly in front of active site offices, with multiple levels of oversight, strict operational controls and close visibility from contractors and project teams. Careful planning, sequencing and communication were critical to ensure the transplant could be completed safely and efficiently.
Ruskins’ experience in specialist tree relocation allowed the operation to be delivered with minimal disruption to the wider development programme. A key innovation on the project was also the application of Soil Biology treatments, used to improve root resilience and accelerate the establishment of the tree once replanted. This proactive approach supported recovery and helped improve the tree’s ability to adapt to its new environment following transplantation.
Solution
Perhaps the most important outcome of the project was the fact that the tree was saved. Rather than removing it as part of a major urban redevelopment, Ruskins helped preserve a significant natural asset, supporting biodiversity, landscape continuity and wider environmental value within the scheme. The 2025 photographs stand as visual proof of this long-term environment success.
For the client, this delivered both practical and environmental benefits, allowing development to continue while demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable construction.
Equally as important, the Elephant Park project demonstrated Ruskins’ ability to deliver highly technical tree relocation works within a complex urban construction environment. This demonstrated that where large trees, difficult logistics and sensitive developments were required, Ruskins was able to provide the expertise, equipment and planning needed to move, protect and preserve a valuable landscape asset.
“The team could not have been easier to work with. We were all delighted with their enthusiasm and professionalism… I will enjoy singing your praises and encouraging colleagues to make use of your services”