The Lambeth LTN scheme aimed to introduce attractive, low-maintenance planting that could thrive in an urban environment while contributing to sustainable surface water management. The planting was therefore carefully selected to align with these goals and prioritise seasonal colour, structure and habitat.

The scheme was made up of four rain gardens along Fentiman Road and was planted with a diverse mix of perennials, grasses and flowering species and six trees to create canopy cover. Some species include:

• Carex 'Prairie Fire'
• Alchemilla mollis
• Aster × frikartii 'Mönch'
• Geum 'Mrs J. Bradshaw
• Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
• Crocosmia 'Lucifer'
• Geranium pratense

To build a successful LTN scheme on Fentiman Road, we prioritised designing a planting scheme that would discourage vehicle traffic, manage surface water runoff and boost biodiversity.

The four rain gardens have introduced lasting green infrastructure along Fentiman Road, helping to soften the streetscape while providing a more biodiverse and visually engaging environment. The planting scheme brings seasonal colour and structure while hardy, low-maintenance species supports the longevity of the scheme.

The rain gardens help define pedestrian routes along the road and reduce the width of movement for cars, contributing to the LTN scheme designed by Lambeth Council.