The aim of the public realm project was to create greener, more sustainable urban environment that both supports and prioritises active travel. Through the implementation of the rain gardens, the project aims to improve air quality and reduce surface water flooding, enhancing climate resilience. By introducing extensive SuDS, street trees, and planting, the project aimed to transform a neglected street into an inviting, sustainable boulevard that benefits residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

The project encompassed a variety of improvements along the stretch of Sutherland Road to create a greener public space, including:

• Almost 500m of rain gardens
• 3,000 drought-tolerant plants
• 68 trees

Working with project partners, we have delivered extensive rain gardens to capture rainfall and prevent flooding along the residential street. The Sutherland Road rain garden regeneration scheme required community collaboration and improved safety measures to transform the long street into a climate resilient, pedestrian friendly environment. Take a look at the planting day! The scheme includes:

• 490 square meters of new rain gardens and Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)
• 228 square metres of permeable paving
• 24 cubic metres of flood mitigation water storage crates (underground)
• 68 new trees
• 300 new shrubs
• 2000 new grasses and bedding plants
• Footway parking moved into the carriageway
• Approx. 500 square meters of new footway

The Sutherland Road rain garden is located close to Lockwood reservoir and Dagenham Brook and has historically recorded surface water flooding, the site is approximately 100m north of reservoir flood risk zone. The project itself faced some challenges that needed consideration such as:

The transformation of the Sutherland Road rain garden sets a precedent for similar green transformations in other residential areas, promoting healthier, more liveable streets across London. By reclaiming space for nature and people rather than vehicles, the revitalisation of the street encourages walking, cycling and social interaction while enhancing the look and appeal of the neighbourhood.

With the inclusion of new public art developed by local youth group ‘The Activators’ from the Blackhorse Workshop and collaborative community planting and maintenance of the rain gardens, the Sutherland Road Public Realm Improvement Scheme delivers a number of outcomes that provide improved places and create vibrant streets for local people and businesses.

On a street that has not had any trees since the first world war, Meristem Design are proud to have been part of a significant urban greening project, making the area more enjoyable, cleaner, greener and healthier.