Lavender Pond and Nature Reserve improvements
Lavender Pond is a historically significant site, originally the northern part of the Surrey Commercial Docks and the centre of Britain’s timber trade, now transformed into a valued urban nature reserve – one of the oldest in the country.
It provides an important wetland habitat that supports diverse flora and fauna, offering ecological benefits such as breeding grounds for amphibians and nesting areas for birds.
Large parts of the site are in a state of disrepair and need attention. This project is an opportunity to look at the whole site and how it can be improved over time as funding is secured, while delivering a range of priority improvements.
The works undertaken will enhance the site as a place for local people to enjoy and an education space to learn about nature, as well as an open space that is welcoming, inclusive, educational and connects people with the natural environment.
Phases
Lavender Pond and Nature Reserve developing design feedback
The Developing Designs Engagement Report (see below) provides a summary of the feedback received and outlines respondents’ priorities for works scheduled later in the year. We will soon begin our detailed design consultation phase, which will be informed by all input gathered to date.
Developing designs engagement
Lavender Pond is a historically significant site, originally the northern part of the Surrey Commercial Docks and the centre of Britain’s timber trade, now transformed into a valued urban nature reserve – one of the oldest in the country. This project provides an important wetland habitat that supports diverse flora and fauna, offering ecological benefits such as breeding grounds for amphibians and nesting areas for birds.
Large parts of the site are in a state of disrepair and need attention. This project is an opportunity to look at the whole site and how it can be improved over time as funding is secured, while delivering a range of priority improvements. The works undertaken will enhance the site as a place for local people to enjoy and an education space to learn about nature, as well as an open space that is welcoming, inclusive, educational and connects people with the natural environment.
Southwark Council is investing funding to improve this valued open space, helping it to become an even more attractive and valued visitor destination. LUC has been commissioned to develop a masterplan and to deliver a priority scope of works to improve the site.
On 27 September a community consultation event took place to discuss developing designs for the Lavender Pond and nature reserve. The event was in conjunction with a site open day and activities run by The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) and a bake sale by the Friends of Lavender Pond (FoLP).
Attendees were encouraged to complete the online consultation and the engagement opportunity was also promoted on the site, through TCV and by the FoLP. Thirty seven responses were received to the online consultation with over 86% of respondents stating they are local residents and 73% visiting once a week or more reflecting a good level of local and regular user input.
Feedback summary
Respondents overwhelmingly support the proposed masterplan design for Lavender Pond, selecting the statements “I like it” or “Absolutely love it.” The most valued features and priorities across responses are:
Key Priorities for delivery:
Community Gardens and Paths: This is the most frequently cited priority, with many appreciating improvements to the community garden, new planting, and better paths
Community Gardens Pond Access: Many want improved or increased access to the pond, both for enjoyment and educational purposes
Viewing Area from Salter Road: Improved viewing areas are valued for making the space more welcoming and visible within the surrounding environment
Fencing Replacement: Another high priority, with several respondents disliking the current or proposed fencing and suggesting more natural or lower height alternatives
Decking Replacement: Regularly ranked as important, especially for safety and usability
Visibility and Identity (New Entrance on Salter Road): Many respondents see the new entrance as a way to better integrate the reserve with the neighbourhood and improve access
TCV Workshop Improvements: Seen as important for ongoing volunteering, community engagement and events
Event Facilities: Many support enhanced facilities for events and community activities
Most Common Suggestions for Improvement:
-Longer and More Flexible Opening Hours: Multiple respondents are frustrated by the current limited access, especially for those who work or have children, and call for weekend and evening openings
-More Seating and Benches: Several want additional seating throughout the site
- Better Lighting: Improved lighting is requested for safety and usability in the evenings, with some noting the need to balance this with wildlife concerns
- Water Quality and Pond Maintenance: Concerns about stagnant water, algae, and shrinking pond levels are raised, with calls for better oxygenation and water management
- Accessibility: Calls for improved access for those with mobility issues, better pathways, ramps, and safe crossings (especially a zebra crossing on Salter Road)
- Wildlife and Biodiversity: Support for native planting, wildflower meadows, and habitat enhancements, but also concerns about reed overgrowth and the impact of new access points on wildlife
- Community Involvement: Requests for more volunteer days, opportunities for residents to shape decisions, and involvement of local artists and schools
- Amenities: Suggestions for a café, toilets, play areas for children, and picnic spaces
Concerns and Dislikes:
- Safety: Worries about the safety of stepped areas down to the pond, especially for children and wildlife, and the potential for anti-social behaviour
- Fencing: Dislike of high or metal fencing, with preferences for natural hedging or lower barriers
- Reed Management: Several want reeds around the pond thinned or removed, citing maintenance challenges and overgrowth
- Paving: Some feel there may be too much paving, risking drought in the community garden
- Anti-social Behaviour: Concerns about loitering, drinking, and fishing, especially if access is increased without adequate management
Other Notable Suggestions:
- Signage and Identity: Requests for clearer signage, maps, and a visible identity for the site
- Sustainability: Interest in rainwater harvesting, sustainable drainage, and clear budget allocations
- Commercial Opportunities: Some suggest a small café or kiosk could benefit the area and support the reserve
In summary, respondents are enthusiastic about the proposed improvements, especially those that enhance community use, access, and biodiversity. The most consistent calls are for better access (both physical and in terms of opening hours), more seating, improved lighting and safety, and sensitive management of fencing and planting. There is also a strong desire for the space to be welcoming, well-maintained, and actively used by the local community.
Question answers and comments received.
What is your first impression of the proposed design for Lavender Pond?
What features of the proposed design do you like?
The most frequently mentioned features are the improvements to the community garden, new and upgraded seating areas, and enhanced paving around the pond and garden. Many respondents also value the increased opportunities for public views of the site, enjoyment, and participation.
Other commonly appreciated aspects include plans to improve biodiversity and wildlife habitats, such as planting water lilies, installing bird/bat boxes, and enhancing green areas. Improvements to fencing, signage, and access, as well as the addition of educational and workshop spaces, were also positively noted.
Several respondents commented on the neglected state of the area and expressed support for the attention and upgrades proposed. Overall, there is strong support for the project’s focus on both practical improvements and ecological enhancement, with particular enthusiasm for the revitalised community garden and better seating and viewing areas.
What features of the proposed design do you dislike?
Concerns about safety and access were frequently mentioned, especially regarding the stepped or terraced seating areas leading down to the pond, with worries about risks to children, dogs, and wildlife, as well as potential for antisocial behaviour and disturbance to nature. The management and removal of reeds was a recurring issue, with several respondents advocating for their complete removal due to overgrowth and maintenance challenges, and suggesting alternative aquatic plants to improve biodiversity.
There were multiple requests for improved facilities for children, such as play areas and natural play equipment, as well as suggestions for workshops during colder months and a café or mobile café to enhance community engagement and provide revenue. Accessibility was highlighted, with calls for longer or more flexible opening hours to allow more residents to enjoy the reserve, and for paths around the pond to encourage walking and exploration.
Concerns about fencing were raised, particularly regarding the height and material of metal fencing, and suggestions to move or reduce fencing to maximise usable space. Some respondents questioned the cost-effectiveness of certain features, such as the steps, suggesting that funds could be better spent on water quality and future-proofing.
Other points included concerns about excessive paving in the community garden and the risk of drought due to sun exposure and poor turf drainage and a suggestion to introduce edible plants to engage children.
Is there anything you would improve?
Many respondents highlighted the limited opening hours as a major issue, with several requesting that the reserve be open every day, including weekends and for longer hours, to allow more access for families, schoolchildren, and the wider community.
Improved lighting was mentioned by multiple respondents as important for safety and usability in the evenings.
Concerns about fencing and railings were raised, with suggestions to use more natural materials like hedging or wood and to ensure views of the pond are not obstructed. There were also calls for more benches and bins, especially for dog waste.
Water quality was flagged as a concern, with requests to improve oxygenation and circulation to address stagnation, odour, and algae. Some wanted fewer reeds and more colourful floral displays.
Accessibility for people with mobility issues was questioned.
There were suggestions for more seating and covered areas, especially to support school visits and events in bad weather.
Management of hedges and litter was raised as a concern, with worries about fly tipping and maintenance. The need for a watering/irrigation plan for the community garden was also mentioned.
Anti-social behaviour was a recurring theme: concerns about fishing (and associated litter/harm to wildlife) safety around steps to the water (especially for children) and loitering or partying at night. CCTV was suggested as a deterrent.
Finally, there was interest in involving schools and universities in the reserve’s activities and a request for clarity on how some design elements would be managed in practice.
From the design proposal what do you think the priorities are?
Anything else to add
Respondents frequently emphasised the importance of preserving and enhancing biodiversity, with many expressing support for native planting, wildlife habitats, and minimising disturbance to existing ecosystems. There was strong interest in maintaining the pond’s natural character, with several respondents cautioning against overdevelopment or excessive infrastructure [e.g.. Access and pathways were commonly discussed, with requests for improved but sensitive accessibility, including wheelchair-friendly routes, while avoiding hard surfacing that could disrupt wildlife.
Educational opportunities were highlighted, such as signage about local flora and fauna, and spaces for community learning and engagement. Some respondents suggested adding seating and quiet areas for relaxation and observation, but stressed these should be discreet and blend into the environment. Concerns about litter, anti-social behaviour, and maintenance were raised, with calls for regular upkeep and community involvement in stewardship.
A minority expressed interest in limited facilities such as toilets or a small café, but most preferred minimal intervention. Comments also included suggestions for water quality improvements, more diverse planting, and measures to support pollinators. Overall, the dominant themes were ecological sensitivity, gentle access, and fostering a peaceful, natural space for both wildlife and people.
Conclusion
Respondents most frequently emphasised the importance of preserving and enhancing biodiversity at Lavender Pond and Nature Reserve, with many expressing support for native planting, wildlife habitats, and protection of existing flora and fauna. There was a strong desire for the space to remain natural and tranquil, avoiding overdevelopment or excessive infrastructure.
Access and inclusivity were also recurring themes, with several respondents calling for improved paths, signage, and facilities to ensure the reserve is welcoming to all, including families and people with disabilities. Educational opportunities, such as information boards and guided walks, were suggested to help visitors learn about local wildlife and ecology.
Concerns were raised about litter, anti-social behaviour, and the need for ongoing maintenance to keep the area safe and pleasant. Some respondents suggested community involvement in stewardship and volunteering.
A few comments highlighted the potential for small-scale amenities such as benches, picnic areas, and toilets, provided these do not detract from the natural character of the reserve. Overall, the majority of feedback favoured a sensitive approach that prioritises nature, accessibility, and community engagement.
Upcoming and ongoing events
Past events
Event date: January 21st, 2026 from 16:00 to 18:00.
Lavender Road
1 registrant
Event date: September 27th, 2025 from 10:00 to 15:00.
Lavender Road