An innovative hovering allotment garden was unveiled at the weekend.

Grenville Road Gardens in Hornsey Rise is contaminated by Japanese knotweed so 18 wooden planters have been built on stilts to avoid contact with the ground and protect any plants, fruit and vegetables from the destructive weed.

A team of interior design students in their final year at American Intercontinental University, with help from engineers Buro Happold, designed the plug-in allotment garden, commissioned by Islington Council and FROGG (Friends of Greenville Gardens).

Each bed benefits from a sustainable watering system that channels harvested rainwater collected from an adjacent rooftop.

The planters can be moved to different positions in the garden and can cater for residents of all ages.

Mayor of Islington, Cllr Jilani Chowdhury, cut the ribbon to the new allotment, which was followed by a celebratory party in the park.