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Canary Wharf showcases its 'green spine'

PA Media Two figures, larger than lifesize, one male and one female, made out of moss. They are 'sitting' on a bench as a London train passes in the backgroundPA Media
"Cheer up love, it might never happen"

An installation described as a "waterfront oasis" has been unveiled in the heart of London's financial district.

Eden Dock, in partnership with the Eden Project, has been developed as the beginning of a "green spine through the centre of Canary Wharf".

It is open to everybody and the aim is to improve the well-being of people who live or work there and those who visit.

Floating islands and humanoid mossy sculptures have been introduced to increase biodiversity.

PA Media The heads of two figures, larger than life size, one male and one female, made out of moss.PA Media
"Seriously, love, I bet you're pretty when you smile"
Getty Images A group of nineties office workers laughing and drinking lagerGetty Images
Canary Wharf in the 1990s was the site of the funniest joke ever told - and very little greenery

Canary Wharf, which gets its name from ships bearing fruit from the Canary Islands, was developed on the site of the former West India Docks.

Along with the City of London, it is considered the financial heart of the capital and is home to six of the UK's 10 tallest buildings - with One Canada Square being the tallest in the country at the time of its completion (it is now third tallest).

Numerous banks and associated businesses have their world or European headquarters there, and about 105,000 people are employed at the site.

Getty Images Canary Wharf before redevelopment, with rubbish in the foreground and disused buildings behindGetty Images
Before its redevelopment, the wharf was an unlikely site for yuppies to gather
Getty Images The docks from the water, showing skyscrapers being built. There are lots of cranes and a boat on the riverGetty Images
The area midway through its rebirth as a financial hub

The Eden Project, a charity and social enterprise based in Cornwall, is famous for its large "biomes" containing different ecosystems - including the world's largest indoor rainforest.

It is located in a reclaimed china clay pit, and has nurtured thousands of plant species from across the world.

PA Media Large moss-covered statues on floating islands in the dock watersPA Media
Not remotely unsettling, the faceless moss-people loom out of the dark...
PA Media Large moss-covered statues on floating islands in the dock watersPA Media
...and prepare to take over the capital

Research has suggested exposure to green spaces helps reduce stress and increase employee productivity, as well as boost physical activity and social cohesion.

Green spaces also help improve air quality and absorb carbon.

Shobi Khan, from the Canary Wharf Group, said: “Our urbanising world cannot become sustainable until cities work for nature as well as people."

PA Media Drone shot of the islands and steps at Eden WharfPA Media
The new course for Total Wipeout is sadly lacking in giant red balls
PA Media Couple looking at plant-filled island. The woman is pointing at it, directly in front of themPA Media
"It's there! Right in front of you!"

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