Landscape and flood alleviation scheme in South Chingford

Commissioned by the London Borough of Waltham Forest, Project Centre provided landscape design and drainage services for three flood alleviation schemes in South Chingford. The project transformed underused lawn areas into natural wetland features, giving the space back to nature and complimenting the overall identity of the landscape. 



As well as creating over 10,000m ³ combined of flood attenuation, the schemes contribute to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Clean Water and Sanitation, Climate Action, Quality Education and Sustainable Cities and Communities.





Our proposed mitigation measures provided significant attenuation capacity, reducing the risk of flooding and increasing local biodiversity. These measures were identified through a comprehensive evaluation of the Critical Drainage Area, using TUFLOW hydraulic modelling software with industry-leading best-practice techniques.



The Memorial Park and Larkswood Park schemes are located on the same flooding flow path and provide a combined flood attenuation of over 5,000m³. The wetland features implemented, including informal play stepping stones, timber seating logs, and picnic benches, made the area more attractive and engaging for visitors of all ages. 



The Rolls Sports Ground scheme involved raising and extending an existing flood wall alongside a stream by constructing a new bund over the existing steel sheet pile wall, increasing its height by around 300mm. This measure, combined with the creation of two basins within the sportsground to attenuate overland flow, increased flood water storage by approximately 5,500m³.  By identifying a nearby surface water drain and diverting this through the basin, we created a constant water flow that helped us achieve optimal water quality. The additional planting palettes breaks down pollutants and provides an attractive green space for the local community. 



Throughout the project, our team organised social events such as the planting day, which involved the community in the schemes’ creation and promoted ecological awareness. The projects were delivered on time and within budget, achieving a positive impact on improving air quality and social value.