Railway Children Urban National Park
Inspired by history
Location: Lewisham, London
Client: Phoenix Group and Grove Park Community Group
Year: 2020
Site Area: 3,200 m²
URBAN supported the Grove Park Neighbourhood Forum on the development of their Neighbourhood Plan, and Vision: “We see Grove Park as an exciting outer London visitor destination with a new Urban National Park offering attractive nature trail walks through different ecosystems; heritage walks through a renewed town centre that incorporates the landmarks of the past with new quarters showcasing the best of biophilic design principles; as well as cultural and enterprising activities that celebrate the town’s literary connections and community spirit.”
Out of the plan process, the idea of the Railway Children Urban National Park emerged, inspired by the Edith Nesbit stories about the adventures of three children and the railway. URBAN worked with the Forum to create a Green Infrastructure Plan, spanning 4.5 kilometres, that will protect, conserve, enhance and connect Grove Park’s natural heritage assets, and create a world-class linear parkland and nature trail, linking existing and diverse habitats, while providing opportunities for outdoor learning, recreation and well-being.
