New green space proposed in Stanmore

Harrow Borough Council has laid out plans for a new open space in Stanmore Marsh, and is bidding for funding to make it a reality. The potential project is competing for money from the mayor of London’s Big Green Fund, along with six other proposals from across the capital.

If successful, the council could win up to £175,000 from the scheme’s £2 million pot to transform the space, which measures over four hectares. The plans include the creation of nature trails, woodland walks, and tree-lined avenues. The site was picked as its wetlands and green space are not currently being used to their full potential.

There would also be over 3,000 cubic metres of wetland, both to attract a diverse array of wildlife and create a natural runoff space to cut London’s flooding risk during periods of heavy rainfall. It would serve as a leisure and education resource for the borough’s residents. This is particularly true for local schoolchildren, who will be able to use the space for pond and stream dipping. The park is also predicted to bring benefits to Harrow’s businesses, elderly residents and disabled people.

Since the award is determined by a public vote, Harrow’s residents are being urged to get online to make their choice. The poll will be open until March 2nd, when the mayor of London’s office will analyse the results and decide which project should get prioritised funding.

Councillor Keith Ferry, deputy leader of the council, said: “This is a chance for residents to get behind a project, which has lots of benefits for both the community and the environment. Plans for the restoration will bring the grounds of Stanmore Marsh back to life and transform the area into an attractive open space. I encourage everyone to vote through the ‘big green poll’ and back Stanmore Marsh.”
If the Stanmore Marsh campaign is successful, it should open to the public in its new form by March 2016.

Published 16th February, 2015

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