Page 15 - Annual Report 2014/15

Beam Parklands

The 53 ha Beam Parklands in Dagenham demonstrates how a green
infrastructure approach can enhance the site’s primary function as
a food defence. The park, opened in 2011, provides an opportunity
for the local communities to interact with the wetland environment
whilst incorporating an additional 30,000 m food storage capacity.
3
The site now provides natural food
water management protecting 400

local homes, schools and businesses

including Barking Power Station.

“House building is not

just about providing new
homes; a good quality built
environment can make
a contribution towards
economic development as

well as improving wellbeing,
social cohesion and
skill levels and working with

the Land Trust is helping us
to achieve this.”

John Beresford
Development Director, Grainger plc.

Wellesley Woodlands

This 110 ha community woodland in Aldershot is a good example
of developers incorporating the economic beneft of green
infrastructure into developments.

The woodlands form vital green infrastructure in and around property developer, Grainger’s
extensive new community development which will include 3,850 new homes, schools and
the refurbishment of listed buildings. Over the last 12 months we have worked alongside
Grainger, our Managing Partner Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership and local
contractors to provide employment opportunities as we improve the green spaces before
the frst new residents move in. New fencing, car parks, maps, signage and over 16km of
footpaths have been improved to link these woodland areas and create walks and trails that
everyone can enjoy.
Grainger has seized the opportunity of creating pleasant places so that the economy can then
be built in and around it. The green infrastructure or SANGS (Suitable Alternative Natural Green
Space) are vital in creating attractive places and will draw businesses and residents to the area,
thereby uplifting the economy. The Woodlands will be offcially opened in autumn 2015.

Annual Report / the Land Trust 2015 15