A botanical landscape project in the Isle of Man has received a highly coveted accreditation as it aims to establish a garden of international significance.
Places recognised by the BGCI include the United States National Arboretum, Auckland Botanic Gardens and Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh.
To achieve BGCI accreditation, gardens must submit evidence for ten assessment areas including conservation activities, sustainability and collections management.
Andrew Inglis, an award-winning head gardener, is a founding member of the project and says that achieving the status is testament to years of hard work and dedication from estate staff, specialists, volunteers and supporters.
He said: ‘We are entering a truly exciting time with this accreditation and, naturally, to receive such prestigious international recognition, become part of the BGCI network worldwide and put the Isle of Man on the map in this way is a notable landmark.
‘The Shuttleworth Botanic Garden is in its early stages as an undertaking of this scale cannot happen quickly - it takes many years to fulfil its potential. In fact, it is actually part of the excitement for everyone involved that this will continue to evolve over many decades, as we strive to create something unique that can be enjoyed by generations to come.
‘There’s no doubt that we are extremely proud to meet the BGCI’s intricate assessment criteria and become the first botanic garden in the island under their scheme. It demonstrates the capabilities of the team and the potential of the project.’
The venture is being funded by island resident, tech entrepreneur and philanthropist Mark Shuttleworth.
A current team of 12 full-time staff look after the site, with several areas currently being created which require heavy construction including drystone retaining walls, water features and the use of large, natural rocks.
A series of designed landscapes have been identified to grow the ‘Living Collection’, including a Japanese garden and woodland, ancient garden and New Zealand Garden. In addition, regenerative edible crop gardens will look to become a haven for wildlife and wellbeing, as well as a valuable educational asset.
A spokesperson from the team said: ‘The primary focus of the Shuttleworth Botanic Garden is on temperate biomes from around the world which highlight the importance of plant diversity and the effects of climate change on plants.
‘The Living Collection is being grown on site primarily from seed to ensure genetic diversity and promote biological security.
Andrew added: ‘We are all trustees of the island’s future environment and want to ensure this is accessible and that it will contribute significantly to our quality of life.
‘We hope to have further updates to share over the next six months or so with some exciting plans in the pipeline, including educational visits, exchange programmes and research visits.’