In a survey conducted by the Friends of Wanstead Parklands, hundreds of local people have asked the City of London Corporation to start doing something about the state of the park. Lucy Dawes reports
Following a survey of local people, with over 400 responses, Wanstead Park emerges as a much-loved public amenity, but there is frustration at the lack of recent action over a set of key issues. These include preserving the lakes, improving the natural environment, maintaining the historic landscape and making everyone feel safe and welcome.
The responses, from both the public and members of the Friends of Wanstead Parklands, show the overriding top issue and priority (70% of respondents) for the City of London and other stakeholders to address is the current state of the lakes and waterscape. Verbatim feedback included comments such as: “the degradation of the lakes over the years is appalling,” and “the main priority is the restoration of the Ornamental Water.”
People most enjoy the natural environment (86%) of the park. Its preservation, in partnership with other community groups and stakeholders, was the second top issue (after the lakes) that people thought the Friends should focus on (50%). Some of the issues could be addressed by more communication to help people understand what is being done.
The historic landscape was the third most enjoyed aspect (49%) and the fourth highest reason for use of the park (42%). It is also a key concern for the future. People asked: “has work on the Grotto ground to a halt?” and requests included “better use of the Temple, such as summer afternoon teas run in conjunction with the tea hut.”
Helping every park user to feel safe and welcome is also a concern for visitors. When asked what they disliked about the park, respondents raised a number of issues relating to how safe and welcome they feel. Dog behaviour (26%), cyclists and safety in the park, which includes antisocial behaviour, were mentioned. There were also issues relating to access, including inaccessible muddy paths, lack of access by public transport and disability access.
Peter Brimson, chair of the Friends of Wanstead Parklands, said: “The committee welcomes our open and friendly dialogue with the City of London Corporation on behalf of the local community, but dialogue needs outcomes. The Friends will continue to campaign for the City of London to act and follow through on commitments it has already made.”
The survey also reflected the joy the people felt using the park. “Peacefulness”, “being close to nature and wildlife”, “the sense of open space” and “walking round the lake” are just some of the positive comments that people added about what they appreciate most about Wanstead Park.
The full report on the Friends of Wanstead Parklands survey is available online. Visit wnstd.com/fwpsurvey
