First look at new 'urban forest' along the River Thames

A new "urban forest" could be created right next to the Thames in West London. Nestled between Putney Bridge and the river banks, a "refuge" could be built under council plans to redesign a "little-known" public space.

Wandsworth Council has put forward proposals to improve Waterman's Green, so it is greener and more accessible for visitors and locals. The council-appointed Project Centre has brought forward plans for the site, which covers 1,300 square metres, on Putney Embankment between the Thames and Lower Richmond Road.

Wandsworth Council previously said Waterman's Green had been closed off to the public for some time due to the Tideway works. A statement submitted with the application says: "This space provides a substantial habitat for small birds and invertebrates and created a green corridor for the wildlife along the riverbank. However, over time there had been a substantial loss of green cover and the access staircase to the space has been closed off due to structural stability concerns. This has caused an issue of severance with the river from the street level.

CGI of proposals for Waterman\'s Green. Credit: Wandsworth Council/Project Centre, provided in Wandsworth Council planning documents

"Waterman's Green could be a relief from the busy urban area of Putney High Street and can create a refuge next to the Thames. The proposal hence explores the idea of creating an urban forest where people can find shelter under the green canopy of the Waterman's Green.

"This would restore the lost habitats for the small birds and insects, provide a sense of relief as a green edge and provide a green corridor in the tapestry of vegetation near the riverbank."

The plans would see a boundary wall and railings attached to Putney Bridge removed, part of the embankment wall realigned, new railings built, steps at the west end of the site removed, level access created and the road junction resurfaced. It would also see new paths, railings, lighting and planting on Waterman's Green.

CGI of proposals for Waterman\\\'s Green, as viewed from Putney Embankment. Credit: Project Centre/Wandsworth Council, provided in Wandsworth Council planning

The proposed works would complement a new public area being created as part of the Thames Tideway Tunnel, London's new 'super sewer' – known as the Tideway Platform.

The site covers the Putney Embankment junction up to Lower Richmond Road and the linear section of Water's Green up to the electrical kiosk installed by Tideway

A Wandsworth Council spokesperson said: "A series of improvements are proposed to make this little-known riverside green space a more open, welcoming and accessible public space. A listed building consent has been submitted, which will assess the impact of these proposals on the architectural and historic interest of Putney Bridge. This application will be considered in the normal way in due course."