We are excited to be designing improvements for Fairlop Waters Country Park, which is set to undergo a major transformation thanks to the ambitious masterplan adopted by Redbridge Council.
The proposed path alignment through Fairlop Waters Country Park. Photo: Sustrans.
An ambitious plan to expand Fairlop Waters Country Park
Fairlop Waters Country Park is the largest green space and leisure facility in the London Borough of Redbridge.
Our Future Fairlop is Redbridge Council's ambitious plan to preserve and expand the park in the coming years.
This plan aims to enhance the park's amenities, improve biodiversity and promote healthier lifestyles for the local community.
These changes are expected to encourage more people to visit the park, improving both physical and mental health while fostering greater community engagement.
Sustrans is excited to return to Fairlop Waters Country Park, having previously worked on enhancing the park between 2013 and 2016.
A path designed by Sustrans and constructed during a previous project at Fairlop Waters Country Park. It appears to be in good condition after ten years of use. Photo: Sustrans.
Upgrading paths to improve access for everyone
The masterplan will not only enhance access to the park, but also rewild areas previously altered for other purposes, such as a quarry and golf course.
Sustrans has been commissioned to upgrade paths on the western side of the park, opening up the land that was once a golf course.
We are also designing new entrances to the park at Station Road, improving connections across Aldborough Road and Painters Road, and creating a more accessible and welcoming environment for everyone.
Improving access to green space for everyone
Access to green space is particularly crucial in this part of Redbridge, where some of the most deprived neighbourhoods in the borough are located.
The surrounding areas of Fairlop Waters are ranked among the 20% most deprived in England, with Aldborough being one of the most deprived areas in terms of living environment.
Investing in green spaces, safety, and active travel infrastructure is vital to address these inequalities and provide residents with the opportunity to enjoy nature, physical activity, and improved well-being.
The proposed location for improved access to Fairlop Waters Country Park on Station Road near Barkingside Station. Photo: Sustrans.
Renewing our partnership with the London Borough of Redbridge
Our ongoing work with the London Borough of Redbridge also includes the completion of the Oaks Park link - a missing section of the route between Newbury Park Station and Fairlop Waters Country Park.
We also developed proposals for the Redbridge Quiet Streets programme back in 2020, all of which contribute to improving the quality of life for residents in the area through active travel solutions and safer streets.
In previous years, our initial contributions to Fairlop Waters Country Park included designing and overseeing the construction of 1.2km of paths, which featured a boardwalk and a small bridge.
We also designed a bird hide and a connecting path, linking it to the main path, creating a more accessible and enjoyable experience for park visitors.
Over the past ten years, these paths have been well-used and have remained in excellent condition, showing the lasting impact of thoughtful infrastructure development.
Part of a sculpture trail through Fairlop Waters Country Park. Photo: Sustrans.
Looking forward to developing active leisure routes
This is just the first step in the larger transformation of Fairlop Waters Country Park.
We’re proud to collaborate once again with the London Borough of Redbridge, and we look forward to bringing our expertise in developing active leisure routes and improving infrastructure for walking, wheeling, and cycling.
We’re excited about the future of Fairlop Waters Country Park and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of Redbridge’s communities.
