A project to create an attractive wetlands habitat from a previously underused green space has been shortlisted for support from the Mayor of London's Big Green Fund.
Firs Farm, the open space to the south of Firs Lane on the Winchmore Hill/Edmonton border, has up to now been associated mainly with football pitches and dog walking (though earlier in its history it was used as a shelter for prisoners of war). However, its transformation is already under way, thanks to collaboration between the recently formed Friends of Firs Farm and the London Borough of Enfield.
The beautiful wetlands area planned for Firs Farm is designed for everyone in the community - e.g. schools, dog walkers, sports people, cyclists, wheel chair and buggy users.
The proposal Is to improve the park in consultation with the surrounding community users, by restoring the watercourse and creating a substantial wetland habitat (but wthout detriment to the sports facilities).
Artist's impression of the planned Firs Farm wetlands
The wetlands will enhance the site by creating a bio-diverse landscape. A variety of
native species will be planted providing habitat for birds, frogs, dragonflies and other wildlife.
The proposals have met with great excitement by the community and include working with
schools on educational projects and construction of a 500m long footpath/cycleway across the park, linking communities to the east and west and improving safe school routes.
A further important purpose of the wetland area is to provide improved flood relief.
The Big Green Fund bid
The Friends of Firs Farm and the Council will need funding to create the wetlands, which is where the Big Green Fund bid comes in.
The winner of the Big Green Fund money will be chosen by public opinion. Voting opens on 21st January. The Winchmore Hill branch of Sainsbury's have agreed to the Friends having an information stand in the store in the coming weeks, where they will provide information about the project and about how to vote for it.
