Case studies

Richmond Road Pocket Park

Transforming Richmond Road Pocket Park: A Sustainable Rain Garden Upgrade
Client
Waltham Forest Council
Location

Project overview

Meristem Design revitalised Richmond Road Pocket Park in Leytonstone by replacing the previous wooden structure with a Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) rain garden. This transformation, completed in partnership with the London Borough of Waltham Forest, enhanced flood management and community biodiversity while retaining key design elements valued by residents.

Goal

To upgrade Richmond Road Pocket Park with a functional rain garden that improves flood resilience, supports biodiversity, and maintains community involvement in the improved green space.

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Scope

The project involved removing the previous pocket park structure, installing a 38m2 rain garden, and rehoming as many plants as possible. Community input guided the design, with timber posts and stepping stones incorporated for aesthetics and accessibility.

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Solutions

A strategic design and implementation approach addressed these challenges

SuDS Integration

A rain garden system was designed to capture and manage rainwater runoff effectively.

Plant Selection

Drought-tolerant and pollinator-friendly species were chosen for resilience and ecological value.

Collaborative Design

Residents were consulted, leading to the inclusion of timber posts and stepping stones to preserve the original character.

Biodiversity Boost

Showcasing a rich diversity of plant species, plant choices offer a feast of colours and attract crucial pollinators.

Impact

This transformational project marks a successful collaboration between the community and council, creating a resilient and inviting urban green space.

Flood Management

The SuDS rain garden significantly reduces surface flooding by capturing and filtering rainwater.

Biodiversity Enhancement

Pollinator-friendly planting supports local wildlife and plant diversity.

Community Engagement

Residents played a key role in the design and maintenance, ensuring long-term care and local pride.

Urban Greening

The enhanced space transforms a previously underutilised area into a functional, vibrant, and nature-focused public space.

Before

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After

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Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park
Richmond Road Pocket Park

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