The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has been awarded £2.3m in government compensation after roadworks near its flagship Wisley garden caused a three-year traffic jam that slashed visitor numbers and cost the charity an estimated £13m.
The disruption, linked to upgrades on the A3 and M25, led to a loss of 350,000 visits per year. A high-profile campaign led by gardener and TV presenter Alan Titchmarsh pushed for reimbursement. RHS director general Clare Matterson called the process “exhausting” but welcomed the payout, saying: “I would have loved more. I would have pushed for more. It is what it is, and on we go. I’m grateful that we got something.”
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Why the RHS Compensation Matters for UK Gardens
The settlement highlights the vulnerability of visitor-dependent charities to infrastructure projects. Wisley, the RHS’s premier garden, relies on footfall for revenue. The roadworks created a bottleneck that deterred visitors, forcing the charity to absorb millions in lost income.
Matterson also criticised the government for overlooking gardening’s proven health benefits, which reduce pressure on the NHS. She pointed out that UK gardens cover three times the area of all national nature reserves combined. “People complain about anything popular,” she said, referencing Chelsea critics, “but gardening is a force for good.”
Key Takeaways from the RHS Compensation Case
- £2.3m awarded to RHS after three years of traffic disruption near Wisley.
- £13m estimated loss due to 350,000 fewer visits annually.
- Alan Titchmarsh led the campaign for compensation.
- Health benefits of gardening could ease NHS burden, yet government support lags.
- Andy Burnham, a frequent RHS Bridgewater visitor, offers hope for future backing.
Comparing the Impact: Wisley Before and After Roadworks
To understand the scale of disruption, consider the following data from the RHS:
| Metric | Before Roadworks | During Roadworks | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Visits | 1.4 million | 1.05 million | -350,000 |
| Revenue Loss | — | £13m (est.) | — |
| Compensation | — | £2.3m | — |
The table underscores the disproportionate impact: compensation covered only a fraction of losses. The RHS now faces the challenge of rebuilding visitor numbers while advocating for greater recognition of gardening’s societal value.
What This Means for the Future of UK Horticulture
Matterson remains optimistic. She noted that Andy Burnham, now prime minister, frequently visited RHS Garden Bridgewater with his family and understands its importance. “We know he loves Bridgewater,” she said. “He talks about pride in place and local.” This personal connection could translate into policy support for gardens and green spaces.
However, the RHS boss stressed that gardening still lacks government backing despite its role in public health and community cohesion. The compensation, while welcome, is a reminder that charities must fight for every pound when infrastructure projects disrupt their operations.
FAQ
Why did the RHS receive £2.3m in compensation?
The RHS was compensated for three years of traffic disruption caused by A3 and M25 upgrades near its Wisley garden, which led to 350,000 fewer visits annually and an estimated £13m loss.
Who led the campaign for RHS compensation?
Gardener and TV presenter Alan Titchmarsh spearheaded the campaign to secure reimbursement for the charity.
How does gardening benefit the NHS?
Gardening has proven health benefits, including physical activity and mental wellbeing, which can reduce pressure on the NHS by preventing illness and improving recovery.
What did Clare Matterson say about the compensation?
She called the process “exhausting” and said she would have pushed for more, but expressed gratitude for the £2.3m received.
The RHS compensation saga serves as a cautionary tale for charities facing infrastructure disruptions. It also amplifies the call for government to recognise gardening’s contribution to health, community, and the environment. With allies like Andy Burnham in power, the RHS hopes for a greener future.
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