The BBC's move north will be extra green and environmentally friendly, thanks to developers Peel Holdings. They will ensure the mediacity:uk development integrates environmental management and sustainability measures throughout its planning, design and construction.
Public transport, walking and cycling will be encouraged. A grid of pedestrian and cycle friendly streets will be a feature of the site — connecting people to and within the media hub. The potential use of river taxis is also being explored to reduce car travel and encourage connectivity. The Metrolink service will also be extended to the heart of mediacity:uk and the frequency of services improved to provide a tram every 6 minutes.
The BBC’s buildings at mediacity:uk will be built to meet BREEAM’s "excellent" rating for sustainability. Throughout the construction stage, a site-specific environmental management plan will be implemented to minimise the use of resources and prevent pollution — all of which are independently audited by the Considerate Constructors Scheme.
BREEAM is the most widely used assessment method for buildings. It sets the standards for best practice in sustainable development and recognises a level of achievement. In today’s climate, the BREEAM certification is a well-respected and coveted accolade for all developments.
Beyond the architecture and building design, green spaces, tree-lined streets and pocket parks will be woven into the urban and waterside environment. Waterfront walkways will provide areas for recreation and landscaping will be designed to encourage biodiversity.
Ed Burrows, Peel Media’s property director said, “mediacity:uk is a city for the future, an innovative and exciting development locally, nationally and internationally. Environmental issues are important today but, when the site is up and running in 2011, these issues will be all the more critical. We are working hard to make sure mediacity:uk is future-proof by incorporating the very best environmental and sustainable credentials into every aspect of the development.”