The new Amex building was opened to great fanfare in 2012.

Built by Robert McAlpine and designed by EPR Architects and claimed big sustainability credentials.

Many of these are undoubtedly worthwhile (the result was a BREEAM Very Good), but the biodiversity features are, sadly, dead.

‘Green walls’ at the back of the building were tokenistic pre-grown ivy stands and have all withered and died, possibly due to a lack of irrigation. Judging by the aerial views you can glimpse if you watch ITV’s new police documentary ‘The Nick’, the small green roof has also died or is dying.

Amex green walls have died

Meanwhile the green wall planted by the Victorians at Madeira Drive is still thriving at 130 years old, and the Crew Club green roof is going strong at over 10 years old.

All of this points to the value of a good specification, clear planning conditions, no skimping on the budget, and a maintenance programme. The green roof won’t be visible to many, but the walls now let down the corporate image and will surely need replacing.

Perhaps American Express could get in touch with Building Green for advice?

Background: UK Green Building Council citation on the building contained this statement:

Biodiversity: Green roofs and living walls are located in a number of locations, some of which were a request by the planners, and these include green walls which can be easily seen from street level. The roof areas include 15 bird boxes in specific locations. 20 new semi-mature trees have been planted within the site and neighbouring school grounds as part of an improved biodiversity and ecological target. The site prior to the building works contained at grade car parking and two small scale buildings, and an ecological survey found no presence of bats or other protected species. Monitoring will be carried out by the FM team once in full occupation.