Community GreenSpace Project - Limes Avenue Recreation Ground

The London Borough of Sutton has been working on an exciting project as part of our response to the climate emergency. The GreenSpace project at Limes Avenue Recreation Ground aims to help make the immediate surroundings more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

By making these changes, we hope to help reduce the impact of extreme heat and high levels of rain, which can lead to surface water flooding, whilst also meeting the needs of the local community and improving the appearance of the space. 

Background

We initially surveyed residents across the borough to ask them to prioritise areas for change. Respondents were also asked what changes that they wanted to see and if they wanted to get involved further. 

Limes Avenue Recreation Ground

Based on the consultation results, climate change data and site suitability, Limes Avenue Recreation Ground in Carshalton was selected for the project.

Two design proposals were developed in collaboration with Groundwork London. These were shared with local residents who were also invited to provide feedback on the designs via: 

  • A drop-in event at the Riverside Centre in June 2023

  • An online consultation held in spring/summer 2023 

Over 60 residents responded. The majority were excited by the works and agreed on a preferred design. Some concerns were expressed regarding the proposals which were addressed in the final design. We hope that the local community will see the changes as a significant improvement to their local space. 

What work was carried out?

Following a procurement exercise in Summer 2023, a contractor was appointed to deliver the improvements to the recreation ground. The work started in December 2023 and ran through to Spring 2024.

Work carried out included:

  • planting more trees - to create shade and reduce heat;

  • using specific plants to help absorb rainwater;

  • creating habitats for biodiversity, such as wildflower meadow and native hedgerows;

  • new information boards identifying potential plants and mini-beasts;

  • a bug hotel and wooden play features for children to enjoy.

The core open space in the middle of the park has been retained for the community to make use of, whilst mown paths through the wildflower meadow will provide attractive walking routes for the many dog walkers and visitors using the site. 

The wildflower meadow and spring bulbs will take a year or two to become fully established and abundant in their flowering. 

Want to get involved or find out more?

If you want to get involved with volunteering at Limes Avenue Rec. or find out more about the works please contact: sustainability@sutton.gov.uk

Find out what Sutton is doing to respond to the climate and ecological emergency, and what you can do, by visiting the following web pages:

Find tips on how you can help to mitigate the effects of climate change in your gardens: