Small Projects Award: Highly Commended | Greening Regents Park Estate

Small Projects Award: Highly Commended

Greening Regents Park Estate

Address: Stanhope Street, Augustus Street, Harrington Street, NW1

Architect: Groundwork London

Client: London Borough of Camden

To help mitigate against the loss of public open space due to the construction of High Speed Rail 2 a number of housing green spaces in Regents Park Estate have been improved. Sites include an existing MUGA adjacent to Augustus House and green spaces adjacent to Harrington House, Langdale, Kirkstone and Hawkshead. Due to the MUGA being on a slope, it was split into two halves to address the level changes. The western side turned into an outdoor gym facility requested by the community, the eastern side retained as a MUGA. A new ramp was installed and the entire area resurfaced to allow for inclusive access. Other improvements included large areas of housing green spaces opened up and made more accessible for public use, which included large amounts of new planting seating areas and a new parklet on the corner of Stanhope Street and Varndell Street. All the improvements were based on community engagement and feedback to ensure the improvements met the needs of the local community. The improvements have given the opportunity for groups less likely to access outdoor space and local facilities the opportunity do so, by increasing access and local provision. COVID has been shown to have placed a disproportionate impact on black and ethnic minority groups in Camden, and these communities make up 49% of the population local to these open spaces. This project provides an important opportunity to improve the wellbeing of these communities by enhancing the local environment and providing crucial opportunities to engage more people with nature.

Photos: LB Camden