Lurking within some of the most unappealing brownfield parts of the Green Belt can be the potential to create remarkable open spaces while also providing development opportunities.
A 12-year project to clear up a landfill site in Green Belt near Heathrow has matured into a country park of awardwinning distinction. Bedfont Lakes was converted in the period 1984-96 from a grim refuse tip into wildflower meadows and open water.
Acclaimed as an ‘ecological treasure’ by the Architects Journal, the site now features a sequence of lakes surrounded by lush meadows. Views cut across to buildings by the likes of Hopkins and Cullinan, with high quality and discreet development being the means of funding the makeover of the site. The landscape consultants LUC continue to advise on the ongoing restoration and maintenance of other derelict sites in the Bedfont Lakes context.
Landscape Architect: LUC
Clients: The Rutland Group, London Borough of Hounslow, and Hanover Property Unit Trust
This project is part of 'Beyond the Green Belt'
