The Friends of Parkland Walk developed a clever solution to provide rainwater for the new pond they wanted to create to enhance biodiversity at their site.

They were able to collect water from the gutters at two nearby properties that are adjacent to the space. The homeowners kindly agreed to run a pipe along their gardens and through the fence.

The pipe is then buried underground, running down a slope to these storage tanks, which are disguised with fallen branches.

A tap allows volunteers to top up the pond as needed.

The pond is lined, but the friends found that foxes were creating holes in the lining. These mats provide enough protection and also create pockets that allow for vegetation to grow.

I was very grateful to the friends for showing me around this beautiful site and to see the fantastic work they are doing there. Hopefully their innovative solution can inspire other similar projects to enhance biodiversity!

Does your friends group have a project to share? Get in touch at laura@cprelondon.org.uk and tell us about it!