The Best Guide for the CR0 Area

HAVE YOUR SAY FOR A NEW REGIONAL PARK IN SOUTH LONDON!

The park, that would run from the source of the River Wandle in Croydon, through Sutton, Merton and Wandsworth, would be the second of its kind in the capital and could provide thousands of acres of connected green space along the length of this historic and scenic river.

The idea has the enthusiastic backing of the four boroughs through which the Wandle flows. The four town halls have agreed a shared vision for the river valley and how it could be transformed into a regional park. The councils are now looking at what financing would be needed to make this dream a reality.

The idea is also likely to attract the backing of the Greater London Authority. The London Plan gives general support for the idea of the Wandle's riverbanks and some neighbouring land forming a ‘regional park for London'.

The establishment of the park would be the key factor in the wider regeneration of the Wandle Valley.

As well as protecting the valley's open spaces and diverse natural environment, the aims are to maximise the area's potential for sustainable transport, health, tourism and leisure, while at the same time sparking the area's economic potential through the encouragement of enterprise and learning.

The four boroughs are working in close partnership with a number of voluntary groups, charities, statutory agencies and local amenity societies to help deliver this new vision for the Wandle.

This includes environmental charity Groundwork which has recently launched a new website - www.wandlevalleypark.org.uk - where visitors can have their say about the plans.

An interactive map on the website allows people to zoom in on different areas of the valley so that they can add comments or suggestions about what they would like to see improved or changed.

for planning said: " I'm very excited about the proposals for the regional park. The four boroughs are working together with other groups and agencies to regenerate Wandle valley. We really do want to hear from local people about their hopes and visions for its future.

"The opportunity to bring a network of green spaces into the heart of Croydon is part of Will Alsop's Third City vision for Croydon and includes bringing the culverted river to the surface wherever possible. This is already being realised through projects such as New South Quarter and could be part of the proposed regeneration of Wandle Park. Access to open space and nature are valuable in improving the quality of life for local residents and providing the opportunities for healthier lifestyles."

Angela Gorman, Groundwork development manager added: "It is vital that everyone gets to have their say about this fantastic opportunity for south London. Not only will it provide a place for people to relax, exercise and just enjoy being outdoors, it is also central to the regeneration and future prosperity of this area and the vital connections between the built areas and the riverside green spaces."

People are being urged to make their comments online before 31 March so that the next stage of the plans can be drawn up and published this summer.