Forest Road Rain Gardens

Collaborating with the local council, the project focused on introducing greenery and Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) to transform the section of Forest Road running between Tottenham Hale and Blackhorse Road. By incorporating rain gardens along the length of the new cycle lanes, it helps prevent surface water flooding and creates a barrier between pedestrians and cars, improving the area’s climate resilience.

The project aims to reduce surface water flooding while improving urban biodiversity, providing natural beauty and ecological benefits for residents and visitors.

The road is now lined with over 600m2 of rain gardens on both sides. The SuDS are home to 30 narrow-forming Hornbeam trees, Carpinus Fontaine trees and over 10,000 plants including grasses, Iris, Lavender and several herbs such as Rosemary and sage. 

Meristem Design incorporated the rain gardens to capture and absorb excess rainwater, helping to prevent local flooding. By choosing a diverse planting scheme, the SuDS not only enhance the area’s aesthetic but also support the local ecosystem. The sustainable green solution filters urban pollutants and allows for more controlled and effective surface water management. By improving the drainage along the stretch of road has transformed Forest Road into a functional and vibrant space. 

The main benefits have been to target and improve both roads and homes that are known to flood. The greenery not only boosts the quality of public space but also offers an ecological sanctuary, contributing to Waltham Forest’s sustainability goals.

The rain gardens are also used as a wildlife corridor and biodiversity booster. Used next to a cycle lane, the SuDS create a green barrier between vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, helping to improve air quality, soften traffic noise and encourage more active travel.