Forum topic: Environmentally sustainable playground inaugurated at Hazelwood Primary School

Transformation of a playground at a Palmers Green primary school into a more environmentally sustainable area was celebrated this morning at a tree planting ceremony attended by the leader of Enfield Council.

Council leader Ergin Erbil and pupils at the ceremony at Hazelwood School (photo: Enfield Council)

A rain garden planting session this morning marked the official inauguration of environmentally friendly improvements at Hazelwood Primary School by council leader Ergin Erbil, who planted the first tree.

The playground at the school in Hazelwood Lane has been transformed using a "sustainable urban drainage system" (SuDS) designed and installed by Enfield Council to help reduce flood risks and create a green play space for students. In place of asphalt, the school now has a multifunctional green space filled with plants, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees.

Commenting on the special occasion, Cllr Erbil said: “Climate action will continue to be at the heart of Enfield Council placemaking and design policy. This is why it is great to see Hazelwood School make impactful change by working with Enfield Council to install this feature.

“As our community continues to grow, it is essential that our response as a borough engages future generations at an early age. By incorporating SuDS into school environments, we can create educational opportunities to teach our children how to better protect our planet."

The design integrates natural play equipment, like large logs and stepping stones, offering a space for children to enjoy, play, and learn firsthand about biodiversity, the environment and climate change.The rain garden integrates natural play equipment, like large logs and stepping stones

Enfield Council is committed to creating more natural and green spaces within urban settings to help reduce the risk of flooding and pollution.

Enfield Council's cabinet member for environment, culture & public spaces, Cllr Chinelo Anyanwu, said: “The new SuDS at Hazelwood School will cleverly manage excess rainwater by mimicking natural drainage systems, especially during heavy rainfall. The playground now has a beautiful feature which will also enhance and attract biodiversity for the pupils to enjoy, but most importantly, to keep their school building and the surrounding area safe from flooding and pollution.”

The project is funded by the Environment Agency and supported by S106 monies, paid to the council by developers to mitigate the effects of new construction.