For Thames Water
Creating an enhanced habitat in local wetlands
We worked closely with Thames Water and London Wildlife Trust to maximise the habitat potential of a wetland area, provide a rich, varied landscape for visitors, and to help alleviate flooding and invasive non-native species.
A well-known nature reserve
The Walthamstow Wetlands is a nature reserve in north east London, and we were asked to design and build an enhanced habitat with sustainable drainage.
Our initial surveys identified large patches of Japanese knotweed and giant hogweed growing within the densely vegetated banks of the River Lea. A plan was put in place to eradication this, and due to the proximity of the river, we advised the client to obtain an AqHerb license from the Environment Agency.
Planting rich native vegetation
For the enhanced habitat, we proposed a linear vegetated swale close to the footpath, and planted it with wildflower and grass seed mix suitable for damp conditions. A knee-rail fence was installed alongside, to discourage public access to these particular areas. We also created three new ponds, planted with native species.
