A Japanese Spindle was planted to mark the 150th anniversary of the Europe’s oldest and longest green wall.

Mirroring blue plaques for historic buildings, a green plaque was also presented to celebrate the Madeira Drive Green Wall.

It was planted in 1872 by the Victorians to decorate and hold back the cliff face.

Mayor of Brighton and Hove Lizzie Dean planted the Japanese Spindle on Monday.

The Argus: James Farrell of environment group Building GreenJames Farrell of environment group Building Green (Image: Building Green)

She said: “I am delighted to be here today to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Madeira Drive Green Wall.

“I would like to thank the volunteers from Brighton & Hove Building Green who have helped advise on the best methods to protect, transplant and re-populate the Wall. And to extend those thanks to the volunteers from Portslade Green Gym and the local East Brighton community who regularly tend the plants here.

The Argus: Mayor Lizzie Deane plants a Japanese SpindleMayor Lizzie Deane plants a Japanese Spindle (Image: Building Green)

“Work is shortly to begin to restore and revive the Terrace. It is one of the most significant projects that the council has embarked on for a long time. I am honoured to be planting this new Japanese Spindle tree and look forward to watching it grow.”

In April 2021, Brighton and Hove City Council apologised after hacking down part of the green wall.

It said that only “minimal cutting” should have occurred.

The council was also reported to Sussex Police for an alleged wildlife crime after the cutting.

The council said the section of green wall has experienced significant regrowth thanks to volunteers and council officers.

James Farrell of environment group Building Green said: “Thanks to Victorian visionaries Brighton and Hove is home to not only the longest, oldest green wall in Europe - but also the longest continuous ironwork structure in the world, Madeira Terrace.

The Argus: After the wall was slashed down in March 2021After the wall was slashed down in March 2021

“The Green Wall was planted in 1872 to make the then new seafront an attractive place to walk, take the sea air, and enjoy the views.

“With the restoration of the Terrace moving forward these ambitions remain as relevant now as they did then. I would like to encourage more people to come and take in the nature that can be found on our seaside.

"It is a wonderful resource which can help us feel calmer and happier.”