Ground Control shortlisted for three Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards

Ground Control is proud to announce that it has been shortlisted in three categories at the 2026 Pro Landscaper Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards, recognising excellence in environmental innovation, biodiversity enhancement and sustainable landscape management.

The nominations span three distinct areas of the business: Grounds Maintenance has been shortlisted for Maintenance Contract, Landscape, Design & Energy (LDE) for Commercial Build Project, and Nature Recovery Director Chris Bawtree for Sustainability & Biodiversity Leader.

Tesco Headquarters shortlisted for Maintenance Contract

Ground Control's work at Tesco Headquarters has transformed a traditional grounds maintenance contract into a thriving showcase for biodiversity and sustainable land management. By adopting a nature-first approach, the site now supports a range of habitats, including an on-site beehive, while creating meaningful opportunities for employee engagement.

The Tesco Gardening Club has played a key role in the site's success, managing a community allotment that encourages colleagues to learn about food growing and biodiversity. Team members have also taken part in practical nature recovery initiatives through visits to Ground Control's Wildfell Habitat Bank, helping to connect people with environmental stewardship.

Diana Memorial Playground shortlisted for Commercial Build Project

Ground Control's LDE division has been recognised for its role in delivering the £3 million transformation of the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens on behalf of The Royal Parks.

Acting as Principal Contractor, LDE led the redevelopment of one of the UK's most iconic play spaces, creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for children and families. The revitalised playground features an innovative water play area centred around a handcrafted 12-metre stone crocodile, designed to inspire imagination, adventure and exploration for generations to come.

Chris Bawtree shortlisted as Sustainability & Biodiversity Leader

Nature Recovery Director Chris Bawtree has been shortlisted for his outstanding contribution to large-scale habitat creation and biodiversity enhancement.

Chris has spearheaded nature recovery across nearly 400 acres at Ground Control's Wildfell and Devana Habitat Banks, combining strategic ecological planning with practical delivery. Through partnerships with organisations including Kew Gardens, Plantlife and the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, he has helped create thriving habitats while engaging Ground Control colleagues, clients such as Tesco, and local communities in hands-on conservation activities and environmental education.

The Pro Landscaper Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards celebrate organisations, projects and individuals driving environmental innovation, biodiversity enhancement and sustainable practices across the UK landscaping sector. The awards recognise those delivering measurable environmental benefits while showcasing the vital role the industry plays in supporting climate and nature recovery goals.

Being shortlisted in three categories highlights Ground Control's continued commitment to creating sustainable spaces, restoring nature and delivering positive environmental outcomes for clients, communities and future generations.