Part of an UP masterplan for the 3km route through Thamesmead between Lesnes Abbey ruins and Crossness Pumping Station on the River Thames, this project delivers environmental improvements to the north end of Abbey Way embankment where it meets Southmere Lake. Southmere Square gathers the surrounding landscape together into a new public realm space for the enjoyment of local residents.

The square creates a strong sense of place, with aspect over the lake. Terraced seating was built up using recycled crushed concrete sub-base from nearby. New accessible routes connecting adjacent neighbourhoods through the park. Challenging play was incorporated for Thamesmead’s youthful population. Soil inversion techniques were employed to achieve extensive meadow conversion, supporting increased biodiversity. 50 new trees were planted and more than 1,000 whips. Raingardens and wet swale provide sustainable drainage.

The project meets the needs of a very diverse outer London community. The landscape architecture encourages rest and reflection as well as engagement and play, supporting both mental and physical health and wellbeing. The space brings local people together, including for events such as the annual ‘Made in Thamesmead’ festival.

A new public square for the enjoyment of all

Improved accessibility and connections to local schools

Challenging play for young people

Recycled crushed concrete sub-base from nearby demolition sites

Ambitious soft landscape interventions to improve ecological value and biodiversity

Sustainable drainage through raingarden and swale features

Wayfinding interpretive milestone markers

AJ Architecture Awards ‘Landscape Project of the Year’ winner, a Big Green Fund project for Peabody Trust, funded by the GLA. Photos by Barry Willis and UP. Timelapse by Regenology for Peabody.