Green and Living Roofs

What is a green or living roof?

A green or living roof is a roof that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium, for example soil, planted over a waterproofing membrane. It may also include additional layers such as a root barrier and drainage systems. It can be on a flat or a sloping roof.

Intensive green roofs have relatively deep substrates and can support a wide range of plant types, even trees. They are usually heavy and require specific support.

Extensive green roofs have lightweight layers of free-draining material (c.2 – 10 cm deep) that support low-growing, tough drought-resistant plants, for example Sedums. They require little or no additional structural support and are very low maintenance. They can be designed into new buildings, or ‘retro-fitted’ onto existing buildings.

What are the benefits of a green or living roof ?

Energy Conservation

Improving thermal performance and insulation – keeping buildings warmer during the winter and cooler during the summer - cutting fuel and carbon costs of central heating and air conditioning.

Surface Water Run-off

Reducing run-off from roofs (by at least 50% annually), which can be particularly important at times of high rainfall – helping to reduce the likelihood of flooding and the need for complex storm water drainage systems

Biodiversity

Providing habitat for a number of species, from Skylarks to rare invertebrates, depending on the exact design of the roof.

Roof replacement

Protecting the roof waterproofing membrane from climatic extremes, UV light & mechanical damage and in so doing almost doubling its life expectancy.

Quality of Life

Contributing to a greener urban environment and better quality of life. Providing both visually and physically accessible green space.

Noise

Working as a sound insulation barrier.

Positive Image

Acting as the symbol of an organisation or individual’s commitment to sustainability in a very public way and providing a very positive and distinctive image to a building or development.

Why should you create a green or living roof in Cotswold District ?

The Council would like to encourage residents and developers to create green or living roofs for many sorts of buildings from garden sheds to major retail outlets.

To save energy, which is important in acting to slow down climate change;
To help prevent flooding, which is a key issue within the District.
To enhance the biodiversity of the area, particularly if the roof design can contribute to local Biodiversity Action Plan targets
To enable buildings to enhance, rather than detract from the natural landscape of the District ;
To complement the important traditional buildings of our towns and villages

Are there any regulations or legislation that need to be considered when fitting a green roof ?

Building Regulations - There are no specific Building Regulations that apply to green and living roofs; however there may be regulations relating to load-bearing, fire prevention, surface water disposal etc.

Historic Buildings – if your building is listed, you may need to obtain Listed Building consent to install a green roof. It is unlikely that permission would be granted if you were planning to replace a traditional stone roof with a green roof; however if you were replacing a new roof on a newer part of the building, for example a 1960s extension, it is much more likely that permission would be granted.

Conservation Area – if your property is in a Conservation Area you may need consent if your building is covered by an Article 4(2) notice.

Construction standards. There are no specific standards for green roofing in the UK

There are currently no specific policies in the Cotswold District Local Plan to encourage the construction or retro-fitting of green and living roofs.