A study is underway to explore environmental improvements to the south-east corner of Alexandra Park.
In recent years the area, which covers the cricket pitch, conservation area and wetlands adjacent to the Park’s border with the Wood Green reservoirs (Thames Water site), has developed into a mosaic of woodland and meadows, criss-crossed with a network of drains and ditches; however for a large chunk of the year the bottom part of the Park is wet and boggy and is difficult to access. Funding of £36,420 has been secured from the Mayor of London’s Rewild London Fund, to carry out research into improvements for the parkland and wildlife, focussing on the south-east corner, as well as working with neighbours and community groups to establish how local people would like this area of the Park to be enhanced.
The project aims to create a better relationship between the Park and the Wood Green reservoirs, both of which are classified as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation, and look at the potential to create habitat for species such as Reed, Sedge and Cetti’s Warblers, plus wintering Water Rails and Bittern.
It will begin with a series of studies to investigate current flows of surface water and baseline ecological surveys to inform design on appropriate vegetation works.
An activity day, offering people the chance to find out more and have their say on the project, as well as featuring a range of nature walks and family activities, will be taking place on Saturday 22 October at Campsbourne Play Centre, Newland Road (N8 7SL) from 12.30-4pm. Entry is free and there is no need to book.
The rewilding project is being led by Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust together with the Friends of Alexandra Park, Friends of Alexandra Park Wildlife Group, Haringey Council and Thames Water.
Alexandra Park opened in 1863; it’s 196 acres is home to over 7,500 trees and hundreds of species of wildlife, including 38 species that are classed as rare or protected by legislation. The Park recently won three coveted Gold awards at the 2022 London in Bloom Awards and has been received Green Flag status for the last fifteen years.