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Harrow Green was appointed to deliver the controlled relocation and temporary storage of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew’s Spirit Collection, a highly sensitive archive of preserved botanical specimens housed within the Spirit Store.
The project involves the specialist handling, packing, transport and secure storage of historically significant wet specimens, requiring strict adherence to preservation, environmental and compliance standards.
The Challenges
The objective was to safely relocate the collection while maintaining complete traceability, preservation integrity and compliance.
Scope of works includes:
- Tray-by-tray asset verification and logging
- Controlled removal from roller racking
- Specialist packing using UN-compliant conservation materials
- Segregation and bespoke handling of Gold List specimens
- Air-ride vehicle transport to minimise vibration
- Secure temporary container storage with full mapping and monitoring
- Post-move verification and reconciliation.
All works are being delivered in line with project-specific RAMS, SOPs and risk assessments, developed through detailed consultation and site inspections.
The Solutions
Harrow Green implemented a structured, two-phase relocation programme to ensure maximum control and accuracy.
Pre-Move Preparation (Week 1)
- Detailed asset verification and logging
- Tray-to-crate mapping aligned to the Kew asset register
- Seal integrity inspections and documentation
- Establishment of full chain-of-custody processes.
Controlled Relocation (Week 2)
- Specialist removal using strict handling protocols
- Conservation-grade packing with foam lining, dividers and full immobilisation
- Segregated handling of Gold List items with bespoke crating
- Air-ride vehicle transport with single-layer loading
- Secure container storage with structured layout and mapping
- Full post-move reconciliation and condition checks.
The project is supported by a dedicated Project Manager, heritage packing specialists, DG-trained operatives and ADR-compliant drivers, ensuring full compliance and technical expertise throughout.
The Outcome
The project is enabling the safe and controlled relocation of a globally significant scientific collection, supporting essential remedial works within the Spirit Store while ensuring the long-term preservation of the specimens.
Key outcomes include:
- Successful management of approximately 86,000 preserved specimens, ranging from 5ml to 50-litre jars
- Safe handling of around 20,000 litres of preserved liquid with zero compromise to integrity.
Client: Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew
Location: London
Sector: Life Science Sector
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