Nurture Groups Premium Landscaping Company, Gavin Jones, takes the Principal Awards at this year’s BALI Awards
09 December 2024

It was another wonderful year at the British Association of Landscape Industries Awards, showcasing the UK’s most remarkable landscaping projects. Among the standout winners was Gavin Jones, Nurture Group's premier landscaping company, which proudly claimed the prestigious Principal Award for Regeneration (Under £500k). The award recognised the company's exceptional work on the Monk Bridge (The Junction) project in Leeds. Two other Nurture Group projects, Stockley Park and First Sentier Investors (FSI), also earned national recognition. While they didn’t take home the Principal Award, their achievements highlight Nurture Group’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and interior landscaping excellence.
Breathing new life into Leeds – Monk Bridge (The Junction)
A Viaduct Reimagined
Originally part of Leeds’ railway network in 1846, the Grade II listed Monk Bridge Viaduct had fallen into disuse, its potential left untapped for decades. But thanks to the ambitious regeneration scheme at The Junction, the viaduct has been transformed into an accessible, elevated urban park. The development includes 665 modern apartments spread across five buildings, with the new park serving as a vital connection point between Monk Bridge and the nearby Wellington Place.
The Vision Becomes Reality
Gavin Jones collaborated with Galliford Try and Ares Landscape Architects to bring the vision to life. Their role was critical, as the teams implemented the soft landscaping scheme, planting 68 trees and a staggering 40,789 shrubs, bulbs, and native plants. Every aspect of the project was designed to honour the Victorian structure, blending historical significance with modern functionality. The area now serves as a beautiful, safe, and social space for both residents and the wider community.
Overcoming Challenges with Determination and Expertise
Executing this complex project was no small feat. The elevated location of the viaduct meant that all materials had to be craned onto the site. Further complications arose as three of the surrounding buildings were set to open alongside the viaduct, meaning works had to continue even after public access was granted. The Gavin Jones team had to navigate the logistical challenge of working in restricted public areas, employing strict health and safety protocols to ensure the public remained safe while the work was being completed.
Despite these obstacles, Gavin Jones successfully delivered the project on time. Their cooperative approach with Galliford Try and Ares Landscape Architects ensured all deadlines were met and the client’s vision was realised. The result? A scenic, pedestrian-friendly park and social hub, hailed as a new landmark in Leeds.
Ares Landscape Architects were effusive in their praise, while the end client, Highline Investments Ltd, remarked on the "amazing" quality of the final work.
“We are absolutely delighted with the quality of the planting installation at Monk Bridge. It is a challenging site and there was a lot of local interest in what we were going to do with the Viaduct and now it’s open to the public the response from the local community has been overwhelmingly positive.
The planting was a key component of the overall project and team from Gavin Jones bought into what we were trying to achieve with the design. The care they took and their attention to detail has been fundamental to the project success.” - Ares Landscape Architects.
The Monk Bridge Viaduct is now a symbol of regeneration, providing a space for nature, history, and modern living to thrive together.



Sustainability in Action – Stockley Park Shines Bright
A Model for Sustainable Grounds Maintenance
One of the UK’s largest business parks, Stockley Park, has long been a leader in environmental stewardship. Since Nurture took over the contract in July 2021, have worked closely with site, as well as client MAPP, to create a holistic sustainable approach to grounds maintenance. This forward-thinking strategy outlines clear goals for improving biodiversity, reducing carbon emissions, and adopting sustainable landscaping practices.
The impact of this initiative has been extensive, with electric-powered tools and vehicles have replaced petrol-powered machines, including the adoption of only battery-powered hand tools and the introduction of a second-in-the-UK Ariens Zenith-E “zero turn” ride-on mower, this switch alone has saved around 750 litres of petrol annually.
Biodiversity in Bloom
The park has also become a haven for wildlife. From planting wildflower meadows to installing bird, swift, and hedgehog boxes, the goal is to create habitats that promote biodiversity. The impact has been remarkable:
- 15 new log piles and retained deadwood have provided shelter for insects.
- Two new aquatic bird species were recorded, and a rise in nesting sites for reed warblers has been observed.
- Butterflies and invertebrate species have increased, with two additional butterfly species recorded since 2021.
- Bat activity has increased, and a hedgehog was captured on a wildlife camera.

The results are clear: Stockley Park is not just a place to work — it’s a place where nature thrives. By completing these actions, the park continues to lead the way in sustainable land management.

Interior Excellence – First Sentier Investors (FSI) Creates Human-Centred Workspaces
Sustainable Design, Inside and Out
When it comes to interior landscaping, Nurture's work with First Sentier Investors (FSI) demonstrates how thoughtful design can enhance well-being and sustainability. The workspace is built on the principles of simplicity, nature, light, discovery, and layering, with each element supporting a human-centred experience.
One of the key sustainable innovations introduced at FSI is the use of Hydroculture planting. This method replaces soil with fully recyclable LECA granules (Light Expanded Clay Aggregate), offering several benefits:
- Reduced pests and diseases: Since LECA doesn’t harbour pests, the chance of infestations is significantly reduced.
- Efficient water usage: LECA retains water better than soil, allowing for less frequent watering and reduced evaporation.
- Lower maintenance costs: With fewer maintenance visits required, there are fewer CO2 emissions from maintenance vehicles.
By adopting these sustainable practices, Nurture has not only reduced the environmental impact of FSI's office but also created a more pleasant, nature-filled environment for employees.
Celebrating Success: The Words of the Judges
The BALI Awards are a true benchmark of excellence in the landscaping industry, and receiving any award is a testament to the quality, craftsmanship, and dedication of those involved. John Melmoe, head judge, praised this year’s winners, saying:
“Each of this year's National Landscape Award winners exemplifies outstanding quality and craftsmanship. The attention to detail in these schemes is truly remarkable, with every element thoughtfully executed to create cohesive and inspiring outdoor spaces.”
These words resonate deeply with the Nurture Group. Our teams faced formidable challenges but met them head-on with passion, expertise, and integrity. Each project was a collaborative effort, demonstrating not only landscaping skill but also a commitment to sustainability, community, and well-being.
BALI Awards are more than just trophies, they are a recognition of the passion, dedication, and excellence of our teams. They stand as proof that sustainable, people-centred spaces are no longer a dream for the future — they are being created right now, one project at a time.