With the help of Leeds based specialist remediation company Ebsford Environmental, Harrow Council are planning the restoration of the 46-hectare park to improve public amenities and access to open space.
Ebsford will undertake river restoration, flood defence works, create footpaths and two new bridges, and create visually pleasing landscaped areas and biodiverse wildlife habitats.
The plans include a river restoration and flood defence project, improving safety and risk to public health, removal of dangerous tress and non-native species, creation of three wetlands, and improvements to flood defences to protect properties from risk of flooding.
Cllr Graham Henson, cabinet member for environment said: “We know how much this park is loved and used by all our residents. That’s why we want to make it better, more attractive and encourage healthier living. Alongside the flood alleviation for the local area, our joint work with Ebsford Environmental will also introduce exciting new features that will help the environment, ensure easier access, and help improve the quality of life for local people.”
Adam Rolfe, director at Ebsford Environmental Ltd says:” This is our latest in a series of collaborative projects with the team at Harrow. From the start our teams have worked hand in hand to develop and refine all elements of the scheme with the aim of maximising environmental, social and wider sustainability benefits. The Environment Agency, Thames 21 and specialist consultants Metis have also played crucial parts in the collaborative process by helping to take the original Flood Alleviation Scheme (FAS) and turn it into a FAS, which includes: Wetland cells for improving water quality in the brook; Improved user experience within the park via new paths, interpretation installations and entrance treatments; Naturalised landforms with native wildflower meadows; and Bio-engineered erosion control using site won materials.”
