Johnsons of Whixley helps transform Growth Corridor

A major trunk road linking the East and West Midlands is being transformed thanks to professional nurserymen and BALI Registered Affiliate member Johnsons of Whixley.

Yorkshire-based Johnsons has supplied thousands of plants for a new junction on the A50 in Staffordshire, created as part of a £40m regeneration project in Staffordshire. The Growth Corridor project is managed by Staffordshire County Council and aims to reduce congestion and improve safety.

Working with contractor ATM Ltd, Johnsons supplied 12,000 bare root hedging transplants, including native and non-native varieties. More than 7,000 Crataegus monogyna were included in this first phase of the landscaping, expected to be complete by autumn 2019.

Phase two will see more varieties being planted while the entire 80,000 square metre site will be grass seeded.

The A50 Growth Corridor project is funded by the Government and aims to reduce congestion, improve road safety, support local businesses and create jobs.

Ellie Richardson, Johnsons of Whixley’s marketing co-ordinator, said:

“We are delighted to be part of this major landscaping project that will make journeys quicker, easier and safer in addition to benefitting local employers.

“The mix of varieties perfectly complements the scenery around the area and this scheme shows our ability to meet large orders and deadlines for our customers.”

Matt Harston, contracts manager at ATM Ltd, said:

“It’s great to see this site taking shape! ATM has been involved from the start with the initial de-vegetation and fencing of the site for the principal contractor, Tarmac Group.

“To have won the Landscaping and Maintenance contract direct for Staffordshire County Council is the icing on the cake as we get to put the finishing touches to the project.  It’s been a great example of all the services that ATM Ltd can provide and the high standard of workmanship we deliver.”

Johnsons of Whixley, based between York and Harrogate spanning 150 acres of land, is one of the UK’s largest and longest-established commercial nurseries.