Little Trinity Lane re-landscaping project

The City of London developed the Cool Streets and Greening Programme following the adoption of its Climate Action Strategy. The public realm enhancement works at the southern end of Little Trinity Lane form part of this programme.

The project aimed to create a more welcoming and comfortable environment where workers, residents and visitors want to dwell as well as delivering climate resilience measures.

The design approach celebrates the rich architecture and history of the area and takes cues from the most striking components of the space, including St James Garlickhythe church façade. The existing planter along Upper Thames Street was redesigned and a new rain garden was introduced at the centre of the space.

In addition to introducing sustainable drainage, the planting palette was developed so it is climate resilient, low maintenance and supports biodiversity. Existing trees were in poor health due to underground constraints, and better ground conditions were created for the new trees to establish themselves and thrive in the long term. They will provide more shade, absorb rainwater run-off, and mitigate pollution from Upper Thames Street.

Initial proposals included accessibility improvements in the vicinity, including a new raised table crossing at the junction of Garlick Hill, Little Trinity Lane and Skinners Lane, additional dropped kerbs and a carriageway raingarden. However, these proposals were not feasible due to costs and will be developed at a later stage once funding becomes available.

Little Trinity Lane Public Realm enhancements works included:

• Introducing a new raingarden planter to collect surface level drainage water thus relieving capacity of the sewer system, as well as introducing biodiverse planting;
• Reshaping the existing planter to the south to create a green buffer from the busy Upper Thames Street, with biodiverse plants, shrubs and trees;
• Replacing street trees in poor health with new trees and associated excavation works to enable their long-term growth;
• Installation of new seating for people to dwell and rest;
• Repaving of the southern footway on Little Trinity Lane.

Construction took place from November 2024 - April 2025 and is now complete. Please see photos of the completed scheme below.

Contact us

If you have an enquiry regarding the Little Trinity Lane project, please contact the Policy & Projects team.