Green roofs for life

The planning system, at both local and national levels, is now being used to expand use of green roofs in towns and cities. This policy recognises important benefits including biodiversity, pollution and CO₂ removal, thermal insulation and mass, protection of the roof covering and making our cities more attractive places. Measures are also in place requiring sustainable drainage systems (SUDS), of which green roofs form an important part, to address the growing problem of flooding.

With the resulting growth in the use of green roofs, understanding maintenance requirements and designing-in provision for safe access is vital. 'Extensive’ green roofs use a lightweight growing medium with self-sustaining planting, such as the popular Sedum covering or wild flowers, and are not generally accessible to building occupiers. However, all extensive green roofs require full access over the whole planted area for a range of tasks at least twice a year.

With contributions from other organisations and experts directly involved
with green roofs, Latchways has published an important guidance
document on designing—in safe access and maintenance for green
roofs ‘Living roofs for life’.

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