The plans aim to improve climate resilience and improve habitats
Plans to improve a river running through Richmond Park and its surroundings have been given the green light.
The Royal Parks will carry out restoration and improvement works to Beverley Brook, in the eastern section of the much-loved South West London park, and surrounding land.
Richmond Council gave the green light for the works to proceed to improve the flow of the stream and its climate resilience, along with restoring surrounding habitats for wildlife.
The works involve reshaping the slopes of the riverbank and creating scrapes, swales and berms in the land to manage water runoff and boost wildlife. A deer gate and fencing will also be installed to protect the area, along with woody features.
Planning documents said: “The design promotes the development of a self-sustaining and dynamic river system, where installed features are expected to evolve and be reshaped by natural processes over time.
“Accordingly, some adjustment and movement within the channel should be anticipated and is considered an integral part of the scheme’s success.”
The council granted the works a certificate of lawful development as they do not need planning permission, which means they can now go ahead.
Royal Parks have a difficult balancing act to look after the ecosystems in places like Richmond Park during the ongoing drought. Some restrictions are also in place while the amber heat health warning is in effect, such as closing the slides at Petersham playground, while the general ban on barbecues still applies to prevent wildfires.
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