SHEDx Tolworth Green Infrastructure Audit by TheCommunityBrain

Green Infrastructure Audit:

Tolworth

Cover photo credit: Arjun Singh.

Revision Tracker Revision

Date

Comment

Draft

20/12/19

First draft issue

First

20/02/20

First issue

Contents 06

Introduction

Why Does Tolworth Need Improved Green Infrastructure?

Who is this Document for and How Should it be Used?

Context

Existing Green Infrastructure in Tolworth

Community Ideas on Green Infrastructure

A Hierarchy of New Green Infrastructure

Green Infrastructure Opportunity Areas

Overview of Suggestions for the Local Authority

DIY Green Infrastructure at Home

Next Steps

References

Appendix

Introduction What is Green Infrastructure? Green infrastructure (GI) is a network of green spaces (as well as features such as street trees and green roofs) that is planned, designed and managed to deliver a range of benefits [1] including: Benefits for People – Healthy living (physical & mental) – Encouraging walking and cycling – Improving air and water quality – Reducing noise pollution – Environmental education Benefits for the Environment – Mitigating flooding – Cooling the urban environment – Enhancing biodiversity and ecological resilience – Climate change mitigation What Is a Green Audit? A green audit accurately maps and analyses existing GI features within a defined study area. The Community Brain C.I.C. wanted to undertake this audit as part of a two year community-led regeneration project in Tolworth, Kingston upon Thames, called SHEDx - www.SHEDx.org. SHEDx, a partnership with Kingston Council and supported by the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund, is also tasked with the introduction of new GI features to Tolworth. Therefore, in addition to looking at existing GI, this audit also identifies 25 opportunity projects for new GI features. A summary of these projects, ordered by type, can be found in the Green Infrastructure Opportunity Areas chapter on pg 46.

Methodology This audit draws on data from a variety of sources, including but not limited to: – Open data from MAGIC (Defra) – Open data from Greenspace Info for Greater London (GiGL) – Open data from the Greater London Authority (GLA) – Open data from the Environment Agency – Open data from the All London Green Grid (©GROSS.MAX) – Open data from the Tolworth Area Plan (©WeMadeThat) – SHEDx data provided by Kingston Council – SHEDx aerial drone footage of Tolworth – SHEDx data from an online green audit survey – SHEDx documented feedback at public events – SHEDx street surveys undertaken by BA Geography students from Kingston University – SHEDx Vegetation surveys undertaken by MA Architecture students from Kingston University Scope and Limitation The scope of this Green Audit is limited to the SHEDx impact area, as identified opposite.

Wards in the SHEDx Impact Area

1. Alexandra ward 2. Tolworth and Hook Rise ward 3. Chessington South ward 4. Chessington and North Hook ward 5. Surbiton Hill ward 6. Berrylands ward

Map of Area Boundaries

6 5

Tolworth Roundabout

2 4

[Academic usehas only] * Note: This area boundaries map been created as part of the SHEDx project, using an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285

Existing benches on the Broadway. Photo credit: @2019 Google, Image capture Apr 2018.

Why Does Tolworth Need Improved Green Infrastructure? Kingston has one of the top ten fastest growing populations in the country with an expected rise of 16.2% in 10 years (ONS, 2016). As an area of the borough which is already undergoing increased urbanisation and population growth, better quality green infrastructure needs to be expanded. New green infrastructure could also help mitigate against climate change impacts such as flooding and urban overheating.

Tolworth suffers from some of the highest air pollution levels in Kingston [2]. Although the most effective method of addressing air pollution is at the source, GI has the ability to disperse pollutants and thereby ‘reduce public exposure’ [3]. A tool called GI4RAQ is currently being developed by Dr James Levine at Birmingham University to aid placing GI.

New green infrastructure in Tolworth provides an opportunity to bring together existing and new communities through planting events and a longer term sense of ownership through planting adoption. Street tree schemes in particular are a fantastic way to unite neighbours with a shared project and aims.

In addition to poor air quality and noise pollution, Tolworth also suffers from a existing lack of quality public space As Transport for London suggests, “places to stop and rest benefit everyone, including local businesses, as people will be more willing to visit, spend time in, or meet other people on our streets” [4].

Attractive public spaces create more interesting journeys for pedestrians and cyclists and could contribute to an increased sense of pride for the residents of Tolworth. More pleasant public spaces are also beneficial to businesses, especially on the Broadway, where people might spend more time.

New GI in Tolworth could help support biodiversity through the creation of new habitats to form a suburban wildlife corridor. Projects which bolster biodiversity on existing green assets should be supported and the public should also be supported in bringing wildlife into their gardens where possible.

Improved green infrastructure in Tolworth could include the creation of new local amenity green spaces, such as community orchards. Such spaces further promote the Transport for London principles, providing new amenity for people to relax in their leisure time, meet neighbours and go for a picnic.

New green infrastructure which supports food growing in Tolworth is an aspiration of the Greater London Authority to “promote productive landscapes including sustainable food production. New forms of urban agriculture, including public urban farms, could promote healthy living.” [5].

In Tolworth the Hogsmill River, Bonesgate and Surbiton Streams all carry a risk of river flooding (fluvial). Flooding events due to storm water run-off (pluvial) also increase pressure on our aging drainage system. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), including rain gardens, new trees, green roofs, and general ‘de-paving’ could help mitigate flooding risk.

The planting of trees and shrubs can lower surface and air temperatures in urban areas by providing shade and cooling through evapotranspiration. Green roofs are particularly good at absorbing heat.

New green infrastructure could help buffer noise pollution, particularly in areas directly adjacent to the A3. Trees and shrubs with dense branches at ground level provide excellent noise reduction.

Aerial view over the A3 to the Sunray Estate. Photo credit: Arjun Singh.

New planted benches on the Broadway. Photo credit: Georgia Neesham.

Who is this Document for and How Should it Be Used? This document is a guide for anyone who would like to know more about green infrastructure in Tolworth and why it is important. It ends with a summary of opportunity projects for local partners to explore, which starts on page 48. Local partners include, but are not limited to, the local authority, conservation organisations, environmental groups, educational facilities, businesses and community groups such as friends of parks and neighbourhood associations. Local residents are also encouraged to improve biodiversity in their own gardens. The green infrastructure opportunity areas are presented as a hierarchy of interventions ranging from large scale habitat management projects through to small scale opportunities, such as potential locations for new street trees. The Tolworth Green Audit has been developed in partnership with Kingston Environment Centre (KEC), who work with local individuals and environmental organisations to secure a sustainable future for Kingston upon Thames.

Context A Brief Introduction to Tolworth Tolworth, in southwest London, is part of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. Most famous perhaps for its tower, Tolworth currently suffers from some of the highest air pollution levels in Kingston. In geographical terms, Tolworth is loosely divided into four quarters by two major roads. The A3 motorway, running south west to north east, separates green spaces in the south from more populated areas in the north. The A240, running north west to south east, creates further severance along the high street Tolworth Broadway. Tolworth now faces a period of significant regeneration. The future prospect of Crossrail 2 combined with major new developments such as the Meyer site (950 new homes), the conversion of Tolworth Tower into residential and the Lidl HQ are bringing focus on this part of the Borough. In 2016, The Greater London Authority (GLA), Transport for London (TfL) and Kingston Council jointly commissioned ‘We Made That’ to prepare an area plan for Tolworth. In addition to setting out a vision and strategy for future development in the area, The Tolworth Area Plan (TAP) also makes key recommendations for the introduction of new GI in Tolworth. A summary of these recommendations can be found on page 32.

Social Context Kingston has one of the top ten fastest growing populations in the country with an expected rise of 16.2% in 10 years (ONS, 2016). The largest two wards in the study area, Tolworth and Hook Rise and Alexandra wards, represent about 1/9 of Kingston’s total population, with 20,370 residents (ONS, 2016). Tolworth benefits from a relatively diverse population, when compared to Kingston as a whole, with higher percentages of residents from ‘other Asian’, ‘other White’ and Indian backgrounds (2011 Census). 8% of households in Tolworth and Hook Rise and Alexandra wards do not have English as their main language (2011 Census). This diversity is reflected in a vibrant and successful high street with shops on the Broadway catering to a rich variety of communities from around the world. Educational attainment in Tolworth is lower than the borough average, with 15.8% of the population in Alexandra Ward and 18.4% in Tolworth and Hook Rise with no qualifications compared to 13.4% for the whole of Kingston (2011 Census).

Aerial view over the Meyer Homes site to Tolworth Tower. Photo credit: Arjun Singh.

Map of Air Quality

Tolworth Roundabout

< 16

16 - 19

19 - 22

22 - 25

25 - 28

43 - 55

55 - 58

28 - 31

31 - 34

34 - 37

37 - 40

40 - 43

58 - 73

73 - 76

76 - 97

> 97

Areas exceeding [Academic use only] the UK’s annual mean

target of 40 micrograms (µg) of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) per m3. (LAEI 2013)

Evening rush hour at Tolworth Station. Photo credit: Arjun Singh.

Transport and Air Quality Tolworth is a key transport hub for Kingston, with the A3 motorway and A240 acting as major arteries into the town centre. High levels of traffic contribute to some of the worst air pollution in the borough, particularly at Tolworth and Hook Roundabouts. As shown in the diagram opposite, which utilises data from the London Atmospheric Emissions Inventory (LAEI), areas of heavy congestion have previously exceeded the UK’s annual mean target of 40 micrograms (µg) of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) per cubic metre (m3). Although the planting of ‘air quality gardens’ can help to mitigate some of these harmful pollutants, the most effective method of addressing air pollution in Tolworth is undoubtedly at the source.

Economic Context Kingston’s Economic Growth and Development Strategy 2018-2025 (EDSG) identifies Tolworth as a ‘hidden gem in the borough’s economy” [6], having had the highest rate of employment growth in the borough between 2010 and 2015. Tolworth’s economic strength is predominantly attributable to it’s three business parks which are home to a rich mix of companies, including nationally significant operators such as New England Seafood. Although enabling further economic growth in Tolworth is recognised as an essential part of Kingston’s future vision, it is also emphasized that the environmental impact of the A3 must be reduced via significant investment. It is also noted that Tolworth Station is currently an underutilised asset. A more regular train service would boost the local economy and reduce air pollution.

* Note: This air quality map has been created as part of the SHEDx project, using a map produced by RBK which utilises LAEI data © Crown copyright and database rights 2017. Ordnance Survey 100019285

Flood Risk Tolworth is home to the Hogsmill River, which rises up 3 miles south east in Ewell, as well as the Bonesgate Stream and Tolworth Brook (Surbiton Stream). These watercourses all present a risk of flooding. The map opposite has been created using fluvial flooding data from the Environment Agency and depicts areas with a 1 in 100 chance of flooding per year (Zone 3) and areas with a 1 in 1000 chance of flooding per year (Zone 2). In 2018, the UK State of the Climate report contained several indicators which show that our climate is gradually becoming wetter.

Heavier rainfall, combined with new developments in the area, will put an increased pressure on Tolworth’s existing drainage infrastructure. Although new green infrastructure which incorporates Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) could help mitigate some of this increased flooding risk, “further landscape interventions are required to slow, store and filter water: reforestation, wetland creation and re-meandering of rivers as catchments, serving to alleviate floods and droughts, slowing the surface water run-off, allowing it to filter and store, recharging aquifers, and creating wildlife habitat.” [7]

Surface water (pluvial) flooding at Corinthian Casuals F.C. ground St George’s Field in 2016. Source: The Surrey Comet.

Map of River (Fluvial) Flooding

ok T he

ill

tre

Tolworth Roundabout

n Bo

wo Tol e h

ro r th B

* Note: This fluvial flooding map has been created as part of the SHEDx [AcademicLicence. use only]ÂŠ Environment Agency project on an Open Government copyright and/or database right 2018. All rights reserved. ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2018. Ordnance Survey 100024198

Map of Groundwater (Pluvial) Flooding

ok T he

ill

tre

Tolworth Roundabout

n Bo

wo Tol e h

ro r th B

* Note: This pluvial flooding map has been created as part of the SHEDx [AcademicLicence. use only]ÂŠ Environment Agency project on an Open Government copyright and/or database right 2018. All rights reserved. ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2018. Ordnance Survey 100024198

Biodiversity Tolworth is home to a wealth of wildlife. “Brown argus and white-letter hairstreak are amongst the butterfly species recorded at Tolworth Court Farm. Reptiles and amphibians, kestrels and woodpeckers are regularly seen by the people that walk through it’s countryside. Hidden gems include the much rarer saproxylic (of dead wood) jet ant Lasius fuliginosus, a species only found at one other site in the borough.” [8] Parts of Tolworth “are important examples of relict habitats, such as the traditional field systems and ancient species-rich hedgerows of Tolworth Court Farm Fields LNR.“ [9] The Hogsmill is an internationally rare type of chalkstream river, one of only two hundred in the world.

The Hogsmill acts as a vital wildlife corridor for the movement of animals within an urbanised context and almost a quarter of the UK’s dragonfly and damselfly species have been recorded along it. Against a backdrop of increasing widespread biodiversity loss, one recent report indicates that “Britain has lost half its wildlife” [10]. “The guiding principle of the Kingston Biodiversity Good Practice Guide is to allow no further net loss of biodiversity and achieve positive gain.” [11]. Local conservation projects which aim to increase native animal populations, such as Citizen Zoo’s plans to reintroduce water voles back into the Hogsmill River, should be supported by the Local Authority.

Still from the ‘The Hogsmill River Wildlife Film’ by Citizen Zoo. Photo credit: Tom Hooker.

Map of Habitats of Principal Importance

Tolworth Roundabout

Tolworth Court Farm Fields (See page opposite)

Traditional Orchard

Good quality Semi-improved Grassland

Deciduous Woodland

Open Mosiac Habitat (Brownfield)

Woodpasture and Parkland

* Note: This habitats of principal importance map has been [Academic use only] created as part of the SHEDx project using Defra MAGIC data and an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285.

Flyer from Tolworth Day held by The Community Brain and Citizen Zoo in August 2019. Photo credit: Gavin Blann

Mapping vegetation on Tolworth Moated Manor by Kingston University MArch Students. Image credit: Riyansh Shah

Chestnut oak

Crack willow

Sycampre Maple

Hawthorn

Ash

Willow

Elm

Elder

LONG GRASS

BRAMBLES

NETTLES AND DOCKS

Broadleaf

TEASELS

MOSS

Poison Ivy

Holly

Mud

Thistle

Blueberry

Blackberry

Bittersweet

Common Briar

Yarrow

Summer Lilac

Woodland Germander

Bud Leia Butterfly Bush

GRASS

Access to Nature Areas designated by local authorities in England for their importance to biodiversity and public experience of nature are known as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs). Although this title is non-statutory, it does afford designated land a higher level of protection within the English planning system. Greenspace Information for Greater London (GiGL) is the custodian of SINC information in the capital and note the definition of Areas of Deficiency (AoD) in Access to Nature as follows: ‘Areas where people have to walk more than one kilometre to reach an accessible wildlife Site of Metropolitan or Borough Importance’ [12] Under this definition, given in The Mayor’s Biodiversity Strategy (2002), Sites of Local Importance for Nature Conservation are not included and have therefore not been identified in the SHEDx areas of deficiency map opposite.

Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation

1. Raeburn Open Space

(Borough Grade II SINC)

2. Hogsmill Valley

(Borough Grade I SINC)

3.The Leyfield (or Old Malden Common) (Borough Grade II SINC)

4. Tolworth Court Farm Fields and Moated Manor (Borough Grade I SINC)

5. Castle Hill and Bonesgate Open Space (Borough Grade I SINC)

6. Fishponds

(Borough Grade II SINC)

7. Jefferies Bird Sanctuary (Borough Grade II SINC)

Tolworth Court Farm Fields Nature Reserve (Borough Grade I SINC). Photo credit: Gavin Blann.

Map of Areas of Deficiency in Access to Nature

1 7

2 6 3

Tolworth Roundabout

1km 4

5 5

* Note: This AOD map has been created as part of the SHEDx project using an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285. It does not take into [Academic useutilised only] in the GiGL AOD maps consideration the full methodologies (distance from site access points). For a higher degree of accuracy it is recommended to refer to the GiGL AOD maps.

Map of Areas of Deficiency in Access to Public Open Space

1 2

400m 9

Tolworth Roundabout

10 11 12

* Note: This AOD map has been created as part of the SHEDx project [Academic useCrown only] copyright and database using an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285. It does not take into consideration the full methodologies utilised in the GiGL AOD maps (distance from site access points). For a higher degree of accuracy it is recommended to refer to the GiGL AOD maps.

Access to Public Open Space The London Plan, the spatial development strategy for Greater London, sets out maximum distances which residents should have to travel to access public open space, as categorised by the descriptions in the table below [13].

Local Parks and Open Spaces

Areas which fall outside of these maximum distances are defined as areas of deficiency in access to public open space.

4. Raeburn Avenue Open Space

In Tolworth large areas of deficiency lie to the west of the study area. Although much of this space is geographically within 400m of public open space to the south, the A3 acts as a barrier to access and travel distances are substantially further. Although Tolworth Court Farm Fields Nature Reserve does qualify as a district park in terms of size, it’s character as a Borough Grade I Site of Importance for Nature Conservation is not typified by the district park description below.

1. Fishponds 2. Alexandra Recreation Ground 3. Alexandra Millennium Green 5. Rose Walk 6. Green Lane Recreation Ground 7. Elmbridge Meadows 8. Long Meadow 9. Southwood 10. Kings George’s Recreation Ground 11. Tolworth Court Farm Fields Nature Reserve 12. Kings Edward’s Recreation Ground

Open Space Category

Description

Size Guideline

Distance from Homes

Regional Parks

These are large areas, corridors or networks of open space, the majority of which will be publicly-accessible and provide a range of facilities and features offering recreational, ecological, landscape, cultural or green infrastructure benefits.

400 ha

3.2 to 8 km

Metropolitan Parks

These are large areas of open space that provide a similar range of benefits to Regional Parks and offer a combination of facilities at a subregional level.

60 ha

3.2 km

District Parks

These are large areas of open space that provide a landscape 20 ha setting with a variety of natural features. They provide a wide range of activities, including outdoor sports facilities and playing fields, children’s play for different age groups and informal recreation pursuits.

1.2 km

Local Parks & These provide for court games, children’s play, sitting out areas and Open Spaces nature conservation areas.

2 ha

400 m

Small Open Spaces

These include public gardens, sitting out areas, children’s play spaces or other areas of a specialist nature, including nature conservation areas.

Under 2 ha

Less than 400 m

Pocket Parks

These are small areas of open space that provide natural surfaces and shaded areas for informal play and passive recreation that sometimes have seating and play equipment.

Under 0.4 ha

Less than 400 m

Linear Open Spaces

These are open spaces and towpaths alongside the Thames, canals and other waterways, paths, disused railways, nature conservation areas and other routes that provide opportunities for informal recreation. They can often be characterised by elements that are not public open space but that contribute to the enjoyment of the space.

Variable

Wherever feasible

Planning Policy Context - Regional The All London Green Grid (ALGG), a supplementary planning document (SPD) to the London Plan, provides a spatial planning policy framework for optimised GI in Kingston upon Thames and Tolworth. Key recommendations in the ALGG include the restoration of grazed floodplains, completion of the Hogsmill River Walk through to the River Thames and the promotion of productive landscapes which promote healthy living, including the setting up of public urban farms. The ALGG also makes reference to local organisations which should be supported. These include the Kingston Permaculture Reserve (Project No. 9.2.15), Transition Town Kingston (Project No. 9.2.36) and Kingston University (Project No. 9.2.37) Since the ALGG was published in 2011 several of these opportunity projects are still outstanding. Partners including local conservationists, educational facilities, community groups and volunteers should be fully supported in their efforts to complete any outstanding ALGG projects.

Identified GI Projects - All London Green Grid

1. Project No. 9.2.12 - Elmbridge Meadows

“Improvement of a valuable pubic space by the restoration of the flood plain. This will improve drainage of boundary properties by creation of a series of seasonal ponds and reinstatement of drainage ditches into the Hogsmill, creation of a community orchard.”

2. Project No. 9.2.13 - Six Acre Meadow

“Potential for realignment and habitat management. This will improve visibility, amenity value and biodiversity.”

3. Project No. 9.2.15 - Kingston Permaculture Reserve

“Continued community stewardship of an acre of formerly waterlogged land in the Knollmead Allotments, now a site of special ecological and cultural value.”

4. Project No. 9.2.16 - Kingston University Sports Ground “It is proposed that this area be remediated into a species-rich wet meadow area, which will link the Hogsmill river to other green space in the area.”

5. Project No. 9.2.17 - Tolworth Moated Manor Site

“Maximise biodiversity value of the site by managing habitats to increase diversity.”

6. Project No. 9.2.19 - Hogsmill Restoration Phase 2

“Continuation of existing Green Arc project. Realignment of Hogsmill River at Tolworth Court Farm Fields LNR.”

7. Project No. 9.2.25 - Tolworth Broadway Project; Greenway “The scheme aims to reconnect residents, shoppers, commuters and businesses, with a green link above the sunken A3 from the Broadway to Tolworth rail station.”

8. Project No. 9.2.26 - Adventure playground at Alexandra Recreation Ground.

[14]

Map of Proposed Projects from the All London Green Grid

ink

th Li

Tolwo r

owns Lin

to D

2 Tolworth Roundabout

4 5

6 Londo

[Academic use only] * Note: This proposed ALGG projects map has been created as part of the SHEDx project, using an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285

Map of Proposed Projects from the Tolworth Area Plan

3 2

Tolworth Roundabout

[Academic usemap only]has been created as part * Note: This proposed TAP projects of the SHEDx project, using an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285

Context - Local A new Local Plan for Kingston upon Thames, which will guide future development in the borough up until 2041, is currently at an early stage of public engagement. It is important that the new Local Plan highlights the value of Tolworth’s existing open spaces, within the context of increased housing targets as set out in the GLA’s emerging London Plan.

Identified GI Projects - Tolworth Area Plan

1. “To really promote well-being and healthy streets the Tolworth Broadway area requires a bolder, larger scale and greener intervention than the current situation”

2. “Broker improvements to Broad Oaks public realm.”

Until the new Local Plan is adopted, in late 2021 or early 2022, Kingston’s Core Strategy remains the key planning document for development in the borough.

3. “Options for A3 Underpass include:

The Tolworth Area Plan (TAP), which was subject to public consultation sets out a high-level vision and a flexible framework for future change in Tolworth. A key recommendation from the TAP is the creation of a continuous public walking and cycling route, along the Hogsmill River, which connects up a wealth of existing Metropolitan Open Land (MOL) such as Tolworth Court Farm Fields Nature Reserve.

4. “Redesign car park to create an attractive greener

Further recommendations include the delivery of enhanced MOL entrances to signpost to nature, a network of centralised ‘seed to table’ food projects based out of local allotments and the delivery of new GI through improvements existing public spaces such as the Broadway and Broad Oaks.

— Green walls to underpass façades — Bio-receptive concrete façades with seeded planting — Microorganisms directly onto façades) — Low cost solution using existing structure and climbing plants”

setting to station, with improved parking layout, bicycle parking and introduction of sustainable drainage systems and tree planting.”

5. “Activate the edges of local leisure assets and

landmarks that are located along key routes leading to, and within open space”

[15]

GI recommendations from the TAP; Create ‘parklets’ and introduce green noise barriers. Photo credit: We Made That.

Existing Green Infrastructure in Tolworth Areas to the northeast and southeast of the SHEDx study area are designated as Green Chain. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Green chains consists of continuous open space linkages, including areas of metropolitan open land (MOL), parks and river corridors which link into strategic networks of open land extending throughout the wide regionâ&#x20AC;? [16].

Areas to the south west and north west of the SHEDx study area are more urbanised and contain smaller pockets of green which are typically found on or adjacent to major roads such as the A3 and Ewell Road.

Raised planting on the corner of Ditton and Ewell Roads.

Climbing green wall to the rear of 2 Red Lion Road.

Planted triangular green on the Ewell Road.

New street trees on the Greenway cycle path.

Map of Existing RBK Green Assets

Tolworth Roundabout

[Academic use only]

* Note: This map has been created as part of the SHEDx project, using an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285

Map of Tree Canopy Cover

Tolworth Roundabout

* Note: This tree canopy cover map has been created [Academic use only] as part of the SHEDx project, using GLA tree canopy data and an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285.

Opportunity for new green interventions on Red Lion Road.

Potential for new planted area outside 373 Ewell Road.

Limited greening at the Ewell Road/ Broadway junction.

Potential for more greening on the Broadway.

Enhanced planting a potential option for the Greenway.

Green wall opportunities on Tolworth Station railway bridge.

In 2018 London mayor Sadiq Kahn set out a vision for the city to achieve at least 50% green cover by 2050. In 2019 this ambition was further backed as London was declared the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first National Park City.

New green infrastructure opportunities identified in this document could contribute to an additional green cover of 14.5 hectares, mostly attributable to the installation of new green roofs (please refer to page 63).

A desktop study of the SHEDx impact area (678 hectares) shows that it currently has total green cover of 328 hectares. This accounts for an existing green cover of 48%.

Undertaking such green infrastructure projects could increase the SHEDx impact area green cover to 50.5%, in line with the mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aspirations for London as a National Park City.

Although this is a good percentage, due mainly to the large green open spaces south of the A3, it still falls under the mayors 50% target.

Map of Green Cover

Tolworth Roundabout

Green Cover

* Note: This tree green cover map has been created as [Academic only]GLA green cover data part of the SHEDx project,use using and an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285.

Community Ideas on Green Infrastructure As part of the SHEDx project, The Community Brain has been asking the public about existing and proposed green infrastructure in Tolworth. A community ideas event held at the top of Tolworth Tower revealed that many local residents were unaware of large public open spaces to the south of the A3, including Kingston’s largest nature reserve Tolworth Court Farm Fields. A separate online SHEDx green survey further revealed the underutilisation of Tolworth’s public open spaces. Tolworth Court Farm Fields ranked in 6th place, with survey participants indicating that they would often prefer to travel out of the borough to visit large open spaces such as Richmond and Bushy Parks.

The most underutilised public open space in the online survey was Kings George’s Field, which received no mention in the poll below. One participate noted “I don’t go over the A3 to visit King Georges Field and Tolworth Farm to walk the dog as its so unpleasant”. The Hogsmill River Walk was the most popular local open space, however feedback also indicated that residents would like to see it made more accessible and clean. Survey participants noted that the existing walk is very fragmented and suggestions were made for a single route to encourage both walking and cycling. Requests for new wayfinding to existing public open spaces echo suggestions from both the All London Green Grid and Tolworth Area Plan.

12% 8% 6%

Hogsmill River Walk

Fishponds Park

Alexandra Park

Bushy Park

Richmond Park

SHEDx green audit question - Which local green spaces do you visit?

5% Tolworth Court Farm Fields

Nonsuch Park

Wimbledon Common

Non-Kingston borough green spaces

Community ideas event at the top of Tolworth Tower in May 2018. Photo credit: Charlotte Levy.

Residents observing large green spaces to the south of the A3. Photo credit: Charlotte Levy.

Large out of borough open spaces, such as Bushy Park, were more popular than Tolworth Court Farm. Photo credit: Steve Brown

In addition to gathering community feedback on Tolworth’s existing public open spaces, The Community Brain has also been asking local residents and businesses for their ideas on new green infrastructure.

Requests for new allotments also featured in the survey. The SHEDx study area contains four allotments; Tolworth Main (4ha), Knollmead (2.5ha), Raeburn Avenue (1ha) and Ladywood Road (0.4ha), all of which are currently council run.

Participants in the online SHEDx green survey voted strongly in favour of new street trees, as per the poll results below. This ties in well with the council’s stated ambition “to plant at least 1500 new trees over the next three years.” [17].

The council’s Allotment strategy 2008-2018 stated “Kingston has a waiting list of 247 people for the existing 1200 plots on 23 sites across the borough. The Open Space Study undertaken by WS Atkins in May 2006 identified that to meet the needs of under served areas and increased demand resulting from population growth a further 14.34ha of allotment land would need to be brought into use.” [18]. The 2018/ 2019 waiting list number has increased to 374. It is recommended that the council’s existing allotment strategy is brought up to date to reflect changes since it was last published in 2008.

Other popular ideas for new green infrastructure included more green walks, wildflower meadows, native tree plantations and mini forest walks. These GI ideas might all be incorporated into improvement works to the Hogsmill River Walk.

Street Trees

Green Walks

Wildflower Meadows

Native Tree Plantations

Mini Forest Walks

SHEDx green audit question - What new green infrastructure does Tolworth need?

More Allotments

Children’s Playground

Community green infrastructure ideas map. Photo credit: Charlotte Levy

KU Geography students mapping out community thoughts on GI in Tolworth Photo credit: Charlotte Levy

Community GI Mapping and GI Co-design As part of the SHEDx project, the Community Brain has been working with numerous courses at Kingston University.

In addition to the analysis work of BA Geography, MA Architecture students have also been designing new GI features for Tolworth.

In late 2018, BA Geography students undertook street surveys in Tolworth to gather community thoughts on potential new GI.

In 2018, MArch Unit 5 students designed four mobile gardening sheds to transport tools, soil and plants to community greening projects in Tolworth.

In 2019, BA Geography students have been asking the public their thoughts on new wayfinding features in Tolworth, with the potential to direct more visitors to the currently underutilised green open spaces south of the A3.

In 2019, MArch students have been designing proposals for a new nature hide, for the Tolworth Moated Manor Site (SINC Grade I), which might incorporate new GI features such as green walls and roofs.

Wayfinding features could also be a way of introducing new GI into Tolworth, such as planters with directional signage to green assets.

Subject to the neccesary approvals, the winning studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nature hide is proposed to be built on site at Moated Manor in early 2020.

Mobile gardening â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Green Shedsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; designed by MArch Unit 5. Photo credit: Charlotte Levy.

Proposals by MArch students at Kingston University for nature hides with GI features. Photo credit: Elliot Newton

A Hierarchy of New Green Infrastructure The London Environment Strategy, published by the GLA in May 2018, sets out a series of actions which the Mayor is taking to improve the environment for all Londoners.

Similarly, new green infrastructure in Tolworth should be planned and implemented as a hierarchy of interconnected interventions.

“Action will be taken now to plant more trees, make green spaces more accessible, and ensure more green roofs and green features are designed into new developments. Local authorities and community groups will be supported to manage and value London’s parks and biodiversity better” [19].

The next chapter ‘Green Infrastructure Opportunity Areas’ makes a series of suggestions for new green infrastructure which reduces in scale from large interventions, such as habitat management and floodplain restoration, to small interventions such as pocket parks and street planters.

The strategy recognises that the adverse effects of climate change, toxic air, noise pollution and threats to our green spaces are intertwined and complex issues with no quick fixes.

By enabling these opportunity projects Tolworth could enjoy a range of benefits, as mentioned at the start of this document and recapped below.

Designing Rain Gardens: A Practical Guide. Photo credit: Urban Design London.

Green Infrastructure Opportunity Areas Introduction This audit has identified 25 opportunities to create new, or improve upon existing, green infrastructure features within the SHEDx impact area boundary. In this chapter the projects are grouped, numbered and mapped according to size and complexity under the following hierarchy: - Outstanding Opportunities from the All London Green Grid - Green Corridors - Street Trees - Green Roofs - Green Walls - Rain Gardens - Pocket Parks and Planters

Tables containing more detailed summaries of each project, including cost estimates and potential risks, can be found at the end of each sub category. Factors considered in identifying the green infrastructure opportunity projects include: - Community suggestions - Guidance from key documents including the All London Green Grid and Tolworth Area Plan - Areas of deficiency maps (pages 25 and 26) - If the space is a RBK land-holding interest - The likelihood of below ground services - Current space usage and security - Local species extinctions - Existing footfall levels - Air pollution levels - Risk of flooding

Green infrastructure vision from the All London Green Grid. Photo credit: GROSS. MAX. Landscape Architects.

Outstanding Opportunities from the All London Green Grid A series of project recommendations from the All London Green Grid ‘Arcadian Thames Area Framework’ are yet to be fully realised. These projects would deliver a wide range of benefits to Tolworth including community involvement, improved biodiversity, food growing, flood storage, particulate dispersion and the provision of new local amenities.

One project (GI Opportunity Project No 5) would enhance the biodiversity value of the Tolworth Moated Manor Site (Borough Grade I SINC) by introducing a traditional hay meadow management scheme with aftermath grazing. This prescriptive management technique reflects the site’s rich history, while also greatly benefiting an increased diversity of wildflowers which have seen a 97% drop since 1945. Local volunteers would be trained on how to traditionally scythe the area.

Proposals for a traditional hay meadow with grazing at the Tolworth Moated Manor Site (GI Opportunity Project No 5).

Map of All London Green Grid Opportunity Projects

2 Tolworth Roundabout

4 5

[Academic use only] * Note: This opportunity areas map has been created as part of the SHEDx project, using an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285

GI Opportunity Project Name

GI Opportunity Project Description

Potential Benefits

Improvement of a valuable pubic space by the restoration of the Elmbridge Meadows flood plain. This will improve drainage of boundary properties by creation of a series of seasonal ponds and reinstatement of drainage ditches into the Hogsmill, creation of a community orchard and removal of invasive species (Japanese knotweed and Himalayan Balsam). Potential for regrading of the Hogsmill river bank to create a more natural profile with lowered riffle areas allowing access and amenity.

Potential for realignment and habitat management. This will improve visibility, amenity value and biodiversity.

Continued community stewardship of an acre of formerly waterlogged land in the Knollmead Allotments, now a site of special ecological and cultural value. Nurturing a mature forest garden with some 40 traditional fruit varieties and various other productive plants, alongside natural woodland, hedgerow, meadow and pond habitats. Working with nature to inspire and empower residents to be resourceful in addressing local and global problems.

As part of a completed drainage project, the University sports ground at Tolworth Court has sacrificed a practice pitch which is often wet and boggy. It is proposed that this area be remediated into a species-rich wet meadow area, which will link the Hogsmill river to other green space in the area.

Conserve existing biodiversity and archaeological remains, especially organic material in waterlogged deposits. Restoration of the moat by desilting, tree and shrub management reprofile banks to original shape (or near as). Maximise biodiversity value of the site by managing habitats to increase diversity, especially in the context of the Hogsmill Green Lane. Provide public access by installation of pedestrian gates and secure access for site management machinery.

Six Acre Meadow

Kingston Permaculture Reserve at Knollmead

Kingston University Sports Ground

Tolworth Moated Manor Site

Continuation of existing Green Arc project. Realignment of Hogsmill Restoration Hogsmill River at Tolworth Court Farm Fields LNR. Phase 2 - Bonesgate Inchannel enhancement, add riffles and in-stream deflectors, bank reprofile and tree/shrub management, Improvement placing footbridges and footpath resurfacing.

* Note: Cost estimates given here are indicative only. More detailed costings should be developed by local partners.. £1M and over

£1M - £500K

£500K - £100K

£100K - £10K

£10K and under

Size

Land Cost Estimate* Owner

Ease of Delivery**

6 ha

RBK

Please refer to details of All London Green Grid Difficult/ Moderate project number 9.2.12 on p38 of document af09_the_arcadian_thames.pdf

£500K - as advised on p38 of af09_ the_arcadian_ thames.pdf

5 ha

0.5 ha

RBK & others

2.7 ha

Please refer to details of All London Green Grid project number 9.2.13 on p38 of document af09_the_arcadian_thames.pdf

Easy

Please refer to details of All London Green Grid project number 9.2.15 on p38 of document af09_the_arcadian_thames.pdf

Moderate

Please refer to details of All London Green Grid project number 9.2.16 on p38 of document af09_the_arcadian_thames.pdf

Easy. Moderate

Please refer to details of All London Green Grid project number 9.2.17 on p38 of document af09_the_arcadian_thames.pdf

Difficult/ Moderate

Please refer to details of All London Green Grid project number 9.2.19 on p38 of document af09_the_arcadian_thames.pdf

RBK £700K - as advised on p38 of af09_ the_arcadian_ thames.pdf

1 km

Moderate

RBK £10K - as advised on p38 of af09_ the_arcadian_ thames.pdf

1 ha

Next Steps

RBK & others

£1M - as advised on p38 of af09_ the_arcadian_ thames.pdf

** Note: Indicative factors effecting ease of delivery are listed below. Local partners should undertake a full risk assessment. - Complexity of the project - If the land is a RBK land-holding interest - Permissions from the from landowner - Support from other key stakeholders including the local authority, governmental organisations and neighbours.

- Designations and planning policy protections - The likelihood of below ground services - Current space usage and security - Existing species and habitats on the land - Potential archealogical interest

Map of Green Corridor Opportunity Projects

7 Tolworth Roundabout

Eight miles of native wildflower verges were planted by Rotherham Council. Photo source: Pictorial Meadows

Green Corridors UK native wildflower verges could be a low cost and low risk green infrastructure intervention which would bring a range of benefits to Tolworth, including improved appearance and biodiversity as well as particulate dispersion. Since 2013, Plantlife has been campaigning for wilder roadside verges. “It said safety and access considerations along with a desire for “neatness” and the logistics of litter-picking had resulted in authorities adopting an overzealous approach to keeping verges short.” Plantlife said a “cut less, cut later” approach by councils and highways authorities could significantly improve the health of the UK’s verges” [20]. It might also lead to potential cost savings in mowing costs.

In line with the Mayor’s Transport Strategy, to increase biodiversity, Transport for London are currently running a trial of native wildflower verges along two red routes, in Redbridge (A406) and Hillingdon (A40). If the trial is successful, TfL ‘hope to expand to other suitable verges along red routes in 2020 and beyond” [21]. The section of Kingston Road shown opposite (GI Opportunity Project No 8) is a TfL red route and would therefore qualify as a suitable verge. Railway embankments between Chessington North and Malden Manor (GI Opportunity Project No 7) are also a great opportunity for UK native wildlife and Network Rail recognised this in their 2018 review ‘Valuing nature - a railway for people and wildlife’.

GI Opportunity Project Name

GI Opportunity Project Description

Potential Benefits

Opportunity to work with Network Rail on their developing vision, as stated in the 2018 vegetation management Wildlife corridor to railway embankment review ‘Valuing nature - a railway for people and wildlife’, for “commitment to biodiversity net gain, seeking partnerships in delivery, and publishing natural capital accounts.” [22].

Wildflower corridor to Kingston Road (A240)

Opportunity for Transport for London to trial new UK native wildflower verges along a section of Kingston Road (A240) between Tolworth Station and Tolworth Court Bridge.

Valuing nature – a railway for people and wildlife… The Network Rail Vegetation Management Review

Front cover of Network Rail’s 2018 review ‘Valuing nature - a railway for people and wildlife’. Photo credit: Network Rail

* Note: Cost estimates given here are indicative only. More detailed costings should be developed by local partners.. £1M and over

£1M - £500K

£500K - £100K

£100K - £10K

£10K and under

Size

Land Cost Estimate* Owner

7 ha

Network Rail

Ease of Delivery**

Next Steps As per the timeline below, Network Rail will shortly be publishing a Biodiversity Action Plan and employing biodiversity accounting on selected projects. If Cross Rail 2 is delivered in Tolworth, it would need to provide no net loss of biodiversity by 2024.

Difficult

Contact should be established between the council and Network Rail regarding biodiversity plans for Tolworth. 1 ha

TfL

TfL are currently running a trial of native wildflower verges along two red routes, in Redbridge (A406) and Hillingdon (A40). If the trial is successful, TfL hope to expand to other suitable red route verges such as Kingston Road (A240) in 2020 and beyond. TfL would maintain and manage the verges. Contact should be established between the council A proposed timeline for Network Rail to achieve ‘no net loss’ of regarding the wildflower verges scheme. and TfL Easy/ Moderate

biodiversity by 2024, and a net gain by 2040.

2019

Milestones 2019

2019/ 2020

• Calculate and publish the ‘biodiversity unit’ baseline of all Network Rail land • Publish a Biodiversity Delivery Plan • Employ biodiversity accounting on selected projects

2019 /2020

2020

• Identify and address any gaps in skills and resources 2021

2020

• Routes undertake a pilot of biodiversity accounting • Infrastructure Projects produce their business plan for No Net Loss delivery • Annual biodiversity reporting

2021

• Roll out biodiversity accounting across Network Rail • All other business units produce their business plans for No Net Loss delivery • Annual biodiversity reporting

2022 /2023

• Infrastructure Projects deliver No Net Loss • Annual biodiversity reporting

2024

• All operations achieve No Net Loss • Annual biodiversity reporting

2026/ 2031

• Phase out biodiversity offsetting and off-site habitat banking • Annual biodiversity reporting

2022 /2023

2024

2024 /2026

2026 /2031

2040

• All operations achieve Net Gain 2040

Proposed timeline for Network Rail to achieve biodiveristy gain by 2040 (page 55). Photo credit: Network Rail

Street Trees Trees are very important. In addition to creating more attractive public spaces they provide a variety of benefits, as outlined in the diagram below. The local authority owns an estimated 12,000 street trees, in addition to those planted in public open spaces, school grounds and council housing estates. The RBK Tree Strategy 2015-2021 notes a planting shortfall of over 500 trees in the past 5 years [23] and aims to “plant at least 1500 new trees over the next three years”, including 600 new trees in the winter planting season of 2019/20 [24]. The council, in partnership with local groups, have also been working on plans to increase community tree planting in the borough.

The benefits of street trees. Photo credit: Your Leaf

Under new proposals, the council will train and support a network of local tree wardens to identify potential locations and species, fundraise for the cost of new trees (£350 per tree) and organise community planting projects. [25] Although there are many opportunities for new trees to be planted, constraints and practicalities such as existing underground infrastructure will need to be assessed on a case by case basis. In Tolworth, an area which suffers from some of the worst pollution in the borough, new street trees should be prioritised in areas of low tree canopy cover which are close to schools, as identified in the map opposite. This was one finding of the council’s recent Citizen’s Assembly on Air Quality. [26]

Map of Street Tree Planting Opportunity Areas

500m

Tolworth Roundabout

* Note: This opportunity areas map has been created as part of [Academic useCanopy only] Data under a Creative the SHEDx project, using GLA Tree Commons Licence and an Ordinance Survey Map ÂŠ Crown copyright and database rights 2019. Ordnance Survey 100019285 59

GI Opportunity Project Name

GI Opportunity Project Description

Opportunity for the council and other local partners including individuals, residents associations, local organisations and companies, to plant new street trees.

New street trees

Potential Benefits

New street tree planting should be prioritised in areas of existing poor tree canopy cover, which are close to schools and main roads. (Please refer to tree canopy map on previous page).

Example of a current lack of street trees on Collingwood Avenue (GI Opportunity Project No 9). Photo credit: Georgia Neesham.

* Note: Cost estimates given here are indicative only. More detailed costings should be developed by local partners.. £1M and over

£1M - £500K

£500K - £100K

£100K - £10K

£10K and under

Size

Land Cost Estimate* Owner

N/A

RBK & others

ÂŁ350 per tree

Ease of Delivery** Easy/ Moderate

Next Steps Under the councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proposed community tree planting scheme, ongoing maintenance and management of the new trees would be undertaken by the council with the help of volunteer tree wardens. Funding for new trees will need to be sought. More details available online at: www.kingston.gov.uk/info/200303/trees_and_ hedges/726/trees_on_our_streets/7

Example of proposed new street trees on Collingwood Avenue (GI Opportunity Project No 9). Photo credit: Georgia Neesham

Green Roofs New green roofs in Tolworth could benefit the area in a number of ways including improved surface water storage, improved biodiversity through habitat creation and particulate dispersion. The Urban Greening Factor, a planning policy tool from the London Plan, recognises that quality green roofs are a great way of creating larger areas of quality GI in new developments. The map opposite identifies potential green roof opportunities in Tolworth, and was undertaken as a desk-based study utilising aerial photography. A total of 294 roofs were identified as appearing flat or below a 20 degree angle and therefore suitable for green roof installation. Building owners, including RBK, should undertake a detailed structural assessment if they are interested in retrofitting a green roof.

Maintenance, irrigation and access should also be assessed to ascertain which of the following five green roof types might be viable: Extensive Green Roofs Lightweight, low maintenance system with a shallow growing medium depth of under 100mm. Extensive Sedum Roofs Similar to extensive but designed specifically for sedum, generally using pre-grown mats/blankets. Biodiverse Roofs: Similar to extensive but designed specifically to benefit local wildlife. Semi Intensive Green Roofs A deeper growing medium, of typically over 200mm, allows for a greater range of vegetation. Irrigation and maintenance may be required. Intensive Green Roofs Roof gardens with public access and amenity space. Irrigation and maintenance required. [27]

1. Drought tolerant planting 2. Growing medium 3. Filter Membrane 4. Drainage Layer 5. Root Barrier 6. Waterproofing 7. Insulation 8. Existing Roof Structure

Diagram of a typical green roof build up. Photo credit: London Wildlife Trust.

Map of Green Roof Opportunity Areas

Tolworth Roundabout

GI Opportunity Project Name

GI Opportunity Project Description

10.

Opportunity for the council and other local partners including individuals, local organisations, educational facilities and companies to retrofit green roofs.

New green roofs

Potential Benefits

Example of a potential green roof opportunity at Travis Perkins (GI Opportunity Project No 10). Photo credit: Arjun Singh.

* Note: Cost estimates given here are indicative only. More detailed costings should be developed by local partners.. £1M and over

£1M - £500K

£500K - £100K

£100K - £10K

£10K and under

Size

Land Cost Estimate* Owner

N/A

RBK & others

Ease of Delivery** Moderate

Next Steps Individual building owners who are interested in retrofitting a green roof should undertake a detailed structural roof assessment in the first instance. Maintenance, irrigation and access options should also be assessed as per the previous page. For further information, the GRO Green Roof Code is available online at www.livingroofs.org/wp-content/ uploads/2016/03/grocode2014.pdf

Additional ideas for green roofs include bee friendly bus stops in Utrecht. Photo credit: Jolandavginkel/Twitter

Map of Green Wall Opportunity Areas

Tolworth Roundabout

Green Walls Green walls are visually stunning GI interventions which can also mask unattractive building elements, infrastructure and public spaces. Placed correctly, they are beneficial for particulate dispersion and can also support local biodiversity. Although not the cheapest GI feature, the most cost effective and low risk method of achieving a green wall is with climbers which grow up from soil filled planters at the base of the wall. More expensive systems, such as the image below, utilise modular green wall cassette systems. These systems, which are sometimes completely non soil based or hydroponic, rely on complex irrigation systems and regular intensive maintenance. Building owners wishing to install a green wall should consider the wallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aspect and potential water sources. Walls facing north use less water but will be more limited in terms of planting.

For modular cassette systems a structural engineer should always be consulted to inspect the existing wall. Although planning permission for green walls is not usually required, building owners should also check with the local authority. In Tolworth new green walls should be located in areas of high visibility, and pollution, for maximum effect. The map opposite makes suggestions for three such locations between Tolworth Roundabout and Tolworth Station. As nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels are highest at the roundabout (please refer to page 16) it is proposed that a lower risk climbing variety is installed here. The remaining two locations would be proposed as modular systems. All three install locations belong to private landowners and therefore permissions and agreements would have to be sought. Installations above a road might require a road closure.

Green wall at Edgware Road Station. Photo credit: ÂŠ Biotecture Ltd 2019

GI Opportunity Project Name

GI Opportunity Project Description

Potential Benefits

11.

Opportunity to retrofit a climber-style green wall, with soil filled planter base, to the existing wooden screens on Tolworth Green wall to Tolworth Roundabout Roundabout.

12.

Opportunity to retrofit a cassette style hydroponic green wall, Green wall to facade with inbuilt irrigation system, to the existing facade of Hollywood Bowl which faces Kingston Road (A240). of Hollywood Bowl

13.

Opportunity to retrofit a cassette style hydroponic green wall, Green walls to sides with inbuilt irrigation system, to the existing outer facades of of the railway bridge the railway bridge at Tolworth Station.

Existing exposed concrete railway bridge at Tolworth Station (GI Opportunity Project No 13)

* Note: Cost estimates given here are indicative only. More detailed costings should be developed by local partners.. £1M and over

£1M - £500K

£500K - £100K

£100K - £10K

£10K and under

Size

Land Cost Estimate* Owner

N/A

TfL

Ease of Delivery**

Next Steps Permission to install the green wall should be sought from the landowner. If successful the wall’s aspect, structural capacity and potential water sources should be assessed. Sources of funding must also be sought.

Moderate

N/A Difficult/ Moderate

N/A

Network Rail

Difficult/ Moderate

Permission to install the green wall should be sought from the landowner. If successful the wall’s aspect, structural capacity and potential water sources should be assessed. Sources of funding must also be sought. Permission to install the green wall should be sought from the landowner. If successful the wall’s aspect, structural capacity and potential water sources should be assessed. Sources of funding must also be sought.

Proposal for green walls (GI Opportunity Project No 13) and wildflower verges (GI Opportunity Project No 8) to Kingston Road A240

Map of Rain Garden Opportunity Areas

15 16

Tolworth Roundabout

Rain Gardens Rain gardens are shallow planted channels, most often found in urban and suburban contexts, which can reduce the risk of surface water (pluvial) flooding and also help mitigate the impact of pollution through particulate dispersion. Rain gardens are a form of Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) which improve the aesthetics of a grey streetscape, whilst also providing much needed protection and forage for local wildlife. A typical rain garden build up involves a top freeboard layer of between 200-300mm, a middle topsoil layer of between 200-500mm and a bottom sub-base layer of between 100-500mm deep. In areas of free draining sub-soil, or small catchment areas, it might be possible to completely eliminate the sub-base layer.

Rain garden build up. Photo credit: Urban Design London

Rain Garden at Newport Street, Lambeth. Photo credit: Urban Design London

Rain gardens offer opportunities to plant a wide range of perennials, and can absorb up to 30% more water than a lawn [28].

For these reasons it is unlikely that anyone else other than the local authority could install new rain gardens Tolworth.

In Tolworth, rain gardens could be installed in areas which are predominantely hard surfaced, are prone to surface water flooding and are also close to main roads with high particulate levels.

Although they require little maintenance, in regards of watering, rain gardens do require a suitable pruning regime to keep them from becoming hazardously overgrown.

Due to the subterranean nature of rain gardens, barriers to retrofitting can be considerable. They include the existence of underground services, existing pedestrian, cyclist and motorist routes and the requirement for regular maintenance.

With the advise of a horticulturalist, more appropriate varieties can be chosen which do not have a tendancy to spread horizontally, and a reasonable maintenance plan for the rain garden can be established.

Existing hardsurfacing on the pavement strip between 400 Ewell Road and 12 The Broadway. (GI Opportunity Project No 17)

A suitable maintenance regime should be agreed in order to avoid mishaps. Photo credit: Urban Design London

Proposal for rain garden on the pavement strip between 400 Ewell Road and 12 The Broadway. (GI Opportunity Project No 17)

GI Opportunity Project Name

GI Opportunity Project Description

14.

Opportunity to install a rain garden into the existing pavement between 370 and 376 Ewell Road.

15.

Opportunity to install a rain garden into the existing central marked road reservation between 382 and 390 Ewell Road.

16.

Opportunity to install a rain garden into the existing pavement corner outside Sutherland Education and 392 - 394 Ewell Road.

17.

Opportunity to install a rain garden into the existing pavement strip between 400 Ewell Road and 12 The Broadway

18.

Opportunity to install rain gardens into the existing tarmac surface, in between trees on the central Greenway, along Tolworth Broadway.

Rain Garden on pavement along Ewell Road.

Rain Garden to the central marked road reservation on Ewell Road.

Rain Garden on a pavement corner along Ewell Road.

Rain Garden on a pavement strip between Ewell Road and The Broadway

Rain Gardens to the central Greenway along Tolworth Broadway.

Potential Benefits

* Note: Cost estimates given here are indicative only. More detailed costings should be developed by local partners.. £1M and over

£1M - £500K

£500K - £100K

£100K - £10K

£10K and under

Size

Land Cost Estimate* Owner

Ease of Delivery**

Next Steps

30 sqm RBK

Moderate

40 sqm Moderate/ Difficult

70 sqm RBK

Moderate

50 sqm Moderate/ Difficult

200 sqm RBK & TfL

Moderate/ Difficult

The landowner, the local authority, should carry out a viability study to assess the site’s potential to house a rain garden. The study should assess the presence of existing underground services, grade levels of the runoff area, existing gulleys and proposed visibility splays for motoristing and cyclists. Planting and maintenance plans will also need to be designed and costed. The landowner, the local authority, should carry out a viability study to assess the site’s potential to house a rain garden. The study should assess the presence of existing underground services, grade levels of the runoff area, existing gulleys and proposed visibility splays for motoristing and cyclists. Planting and maintenance plans will also need to be designed and costed.

Pocket Parks and Planters New pocket parks and planters are a very cost effective way to deliver a wide range of benefits to communities in Tolworth.

New planters are a simple, low risk method of visually enhancing an area by greening any existing grey public spaces.

In addition to providing new local amenity space, pocket parks support biodiversity and could also provide an opportunity for communities to grow their own food locally.

New planters, placed in areas adjacent to busy roads, have some ability to disperse particulate matter and also provide an excellent opportunity for community involvement and ownership.

Portable parklet by WMB Studios on Tooley Street, London Bridge. Photo credit: Ed Butler and Mickey Lee

Map of Pocket Park and Planter Opportunity Areas

19 21

20 Tolworth Roundabout

23 24 25

Street planting as part of the Paris Greening Permit sceme. Photo source: Facebook/WorldEconomicForum

Existing hardsurfacing to Tolworth Broadway. (GI Opportunity Project No 21)

The aspect of any new planting should be well considered as this will effect the type of varieties which will thrive in a given condition. Planters, by their smaller nature, are prone to periods of drought and planting should therefore be hardy and drought resistant. Where possible, existing water sources should be identified and utilised to mitigate the need for frequent watering during hotter periods. For both new pocket parks and planters, permission must be sought from the landowner. If supported, community-led planting promotes local cohesion and ownership which may well encourage longer term community maintenance and watering of the adopted planted areas.

In Paris, the local authority set up the Paris Greening Permit scheme in 2015. Under the scheme, 2500 residents identified areas of grey public space which was suitable for greening and applied to the local authority for a permit and guidance to undertake the works [29]. The local authority should be supportive of such community-led schemes and may wish to trial a Kingston Greening Permit in Tolworth. There are many sources of funding available for small community greening projects, including pocket parks, which are noted in the next chapter. TfL has also created a useful toolkit for greening Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public spaces entitled â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Small Change, Big Impactâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; [30].

Proposals for new high level planters to Tolworth Broadway. (GI Opportunity Project No 21)

GI Opportunity Project Name

GI Opportunity Project Description

19.

Opportunity for a pocket park/ community orchard on the triangular green next to 370 Ewell Road.

20.

Opportunity for a pocket park/ community orchard on the service road between Vincent Avenue and Hazelbank on the Sunray Estate.

Pocket park/ community orchard on triangular green along Ewell Road.

Pocket park/ community orchard on the Sunray Estate.

Potential Benefits

21.

Opportunity for new raised beds and planters to existing pavement edges and the central Greenway, in between Raised beds and planters to Tolworth existing trees, along Tolworth Broadway. Broadway.

22.

Raised planters to Broadoaks service road.

Opportunity for new raised planters to Broadoaks service road and along the alleyway which connects between the Broadway and

* Note: Cost estimates given here are indicative only. More detailed costings should be developed by local partners.. £1M and over

£1M - £500K

£500K - £100K

£100K - £10K

£10K and under

Size

Land Cost Estimate* Owner

Ease of Delivery**

200 sqm RBK Moderate

200 sqm Moderate

100 sqm RBK Easy/ Moderate

50 sqm

RBK & others

Easy/ Moderate

Next Steps Permission from the landowner must be approved, and appropriate stakeholder support sought, at an early project stage. A future maintenance plan must be developed alongside the planting plan and should include factors such as solar aspect and water sources. TfL has created a useful toolkit including potential funding sources entitled ‘Small Change, Big Impact’ available online at https://issuu.com/ studioweave/docs/small-change-big-impact Permission from the landowner must be approved, and appropriate stakeholder support sought, at an early project stage. A future maintenance plan must be developed alongside the planting plan and should include factors such as solar aspect and water sources. TfL has created a useful toolkit including potential funding sources entitled ‘Small Change, Big Impact’ available online at https://issuu.com/ studioweave/docs/small-change-big-impact Permission from the landowner must be approved, and appropriate stakeholder support sought, at an early project stage. A future maintenance plan must be developed alongside the planting plan and should include factors such as solar aspect and water sources. TfL has created a useful toolkit including potential funding sources entitled ‘Small Change, Big Impact’ available online at https://issuu.com/ studioweave/docs/small-change-big-impact Permission from the landowner must be approved, and appropriate stakeholder support sought, at an early project stage. A future maintenance plan must be developed alongside the planting plan and should include factors such as solar aspect and water sources. TfL has created a useful toolkit including potential funding sources entitled ‘Small Change, Big Impact’ available online at https://issuu.com/ studioweave/docs/small-change-big-impact

GI Opportunity Project Name

GI Opportunity Project Description

Potential Benefits

23.

Opportunity for a pocket park on Tolworth Roundabout.

24.

Opportunity for a pocket park to the rear of Tolworth Station.

25.

Opportunity for a pocket park/ community planted area at Corinthian Casuals Football Club Ground, King George’s Field.

26.

Opportunity for planters to existing pavement outside nos.169175 Red Lion Road.

Pocket park on Tolworth Roundabout

Pocket park at Tolworth Station.

Planting at Corinthian Casuals F.C. ground.

Planters to pavement on Red Lion Road.

* Note: Cost estimates given here are indicative only. More detailed costings should be developed by local partners.. £1M and over

£1M - £500K

£500K - £100K

£100K - £10K

£10K and under

Size

Land Cost Estimate* Owner

Ease of Delivery**

Next Steps

200 sqm TfL

100 sqm Network Rail

50 sqm

Moderate

RBK Easy

30 sqm Easy/ Moderate

Permission from the landowner must be approved, and appropriate stakeholder support sought, at an early project stage. A future maintenance plan must be developed alongside the planting plan and should include factors such as solar aspect and water sources. TfL has created a useful toolkit including potential funding sources entitled ‘Small Change, Big Impact’ available online at https://issuu.com/ studioweave/docs/small-change-big-impact Permission from the landowner must be approved, and appropriate stakeholder support sought, at an early project stage. A future maintenance plan must be developed alongside the planting plan and should include factors such as solar aspect and water sources. TfL has created a useful toolkit including potential funding sources entitled ‘Small Change, Big Impact’ available online at https://issuu.com/ studioweave/docs/small-change-big-impact

Overview of Suggestions for the Local Authority Protect and Enhance Existing Public Open Spaces Ensure that Tolworth’s existing public open spaces, especially Kingston’s largest nature reserve Tolworth Court Farm Fields, are protected in Kingston’s emerging new local plan. Raise awareness of Tolworth’s existing public open spaces, especially Kingston’s largest nature reserve Tolworth Court Farm Fields, through new wayfinding and enhanced entrances. Re-establish partnership with Greenspace Information for Greater London (GiGL) to ensure better insight for the emerging new local plan. Data covered includes detailed information on access to public open spaces, access to nature, habitat data and species records. Ground Maintenance Contracts Opportunities to review the grounds maintenance contract should be taken to support green infrastructure and biodiversity outcomes including appropriate maintenance arrangements Update Existing Allotment Strategy Update the current Allotment Strategy (20082018) to reflect changes since it was published in 2008, including an audit of all current stock and waiting lists. Help Implement Outstanding Opportunities from the All London Green Grid Support local partners including conservationists, educational facilities and community groups in their efforts to complete outstanding projects from the All London Green Grid Arcadian Thames. (Please refer to pages 50-53). Support local conservation projects which aim to increase native animal populations, such as Citizen Zoo’s plans to reintroduce water voles back into the Hogsmill River.

Green Corridors Explore the opportunity of partnering with Network Rail to help improve biodiversity along railway embankments as part of their new Biodiversity Delivery Plan. If Cross Rail 2 is delivered in Tolworth it would need to provide no net loss of biodiversity by 2024. (Please refer to pages 54-57). Explore the opportunity of partnering with TfL regarding their UK native wildflower verges trial along red routes in London. (Please refer to pages 54-57). Street Trees Ensure Tolworth, an area which suffers from some of the worst pollution in the borough, is planted with new street trees, prioritised in areas of low tree canopy cover which are close to schools, (Please refer to pages 58-61). Green Roofs Explore the opportunity to retrofit green roofs onto council owned buildings. (Please refer to pages 62-65). Green Walls Explore the opportunity to retrofit green walls onto council owned buildings. (Please refer to pages 66-69). Rain Gardens Explore the opportunity to install new rain gardens in Tolworth. (Please refer to pages 70-75). New rain gardens should ideally be incorporated into schemes where the local authority is already undertaking excavation works to roads and pavements, such as for new cycle routes. Pocket Parks and Planters Support local partners undertaking small scale community-led greening projects. Explore the opportunity of trialling a ‘Kingston Greening Permit’ in Tolworth. (Please refer to pages 76-81).

Aerial view west over the.A3. Photo credit: Arjun Singh.

DIY Green Infrastructure at Home Gardens are an important part of green infrastructure. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;In fact, our gardens account for about 25 percent of the land in most cities. And because more than 80 percent of the UK population lives in a town or city, we can make a difference by ensuring that every available space in our front and back garden contains planting, and that we carry out sustainable practicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; [31] If planned properly, gardens can provide a variety of benefits in urban and suburban areas including; Cooling the Urban Environment Gardens help reduce the urban island heat effect through aerial cooling (from shading) and via evapotranspiration (water loss through leaf pores). Insulating Buildings from Heat Loss The planting of trees, hedges and other thick vegetation can thermally buffer a building and help reduce the surrounding air speed. Prevention of Urban Flooding Planting helps to intercept heavy rainfall, slowing rainfall and reducing the pressure on urban drainage systems. Excessive hard surfacing, with no sustainable drainage systems, can greatly increase the risk of flooding in urban areas.

Supporting Human Health Gardening has been proven as a way of improving both physical and mental wellbeing, particularly with regard to community gardening projects. Green spaces in urban environments can help alleviate stress, improve cognitive function and generally provide a peaceful setting in which to socialise and relax. Increasing Urban Biodiversity Domestic urban gardens support a substantial range of wildlife. There is now evidence to suggest that some declining species, which were once common in low intensity farmland, are now more abundant in domestic urban gardens. These include the hedgehog, song thrush and common frog. SiĂ˘n Moxon, a senior lecturer at the Cass School of Art, Architecture and Design founded a project called Rewild my Street which is accessible at: www.rewildmystreet.org The site provides great guidance on how to adapt homes, gardens and streets to encourage native wildlife in urban settings.

Activities to help urban wildlife (www.rewildmystreet.org/activities) ÂŠ Sian Moxon 2018. Photo credit: Viktoria Fenyes

Next Steps Project Guidance Kingston Council recently commissioned a community projects guide, entitled Reimagining Kingston Town Centre’s Streets & Spaces, which aims to help interested local partners to codeliver projects. Much of the practical advice contained in the ‘Making it Happen’ chapter, between pages 25-39, is very relevant to partners wishing to undertake new GI projects in Tolworth. The guide can be found online at: www.kingston.gov.uk/streetsandspaces

Funding Available funding options should be explored as soon as the GI project has been chosen. Most funders ask for a clear project budget and this should be assembled in any case. Key funding opportunities, taken from Reimagining Kingston Town Centre’s Streets & Spaces, can be found in the appendix at the end of this document. Where projects will deliver direct benefit to local businesses it may well also be appropriate to seek sponsorship or part funding for small scale GI, such a new raised planters.

Project Identification It is important to note that the opportunity projects outlined in this document are not exhaustive and that local partners are very much encouraged to propose their own GI interventions in Tolworth. Communities should be encouraged and enabled to come together to green the grey in areas where they live.

Engagement All projects will be subject to further consultation and agreements with the relevant stakeholders including landowners, the local authority and local partners. To aid project success, an engagement plan should be developed after funding is secured. Feedback from the engagement activities should also help develop ideas.

Consider Other Stakeholders and Collaborators A successful project is one which maps out all key stakeholders at an early stage. Stakeholders might include the landowner, the local authority, the highways authority and neighbours. Collaborators might include conservation organisations, environmental groups, educational facilities, businesses and community groups.

Additional Surveys Some of the GI typologies in this guide will require further survey work. Structural surveys will be required for green roof and green wall installations and proposals for new street trees and rain gardens will most likely require a survey of existing underground services. Sight lines and visibility splays on highways may also be assessed.

Steps to success from ‘Reimagining Kingston Town Centre’s Streets & Spaces’. Image credit: We Made That and Maddison Graphic

Design For most of the GI opportunities raised in this document, design advice should be sought. This might include planting advice which is beneficial for biodiversity and wildlife, such as the bee-friendly borders opposite which were designed by local business start-up Janice Horslen Garden Design. The design advice of horticulturists, conservationists, landscape architects and landscape managers will help support long term project success through the appropriate selection of species for particular conditions. Independant environmental consultants might also be consulted prior to the retrofitting of any green roofs or green walls. Planning permission may well be required for some GI interventions and thus this should be established with the local authority at an early stage. Townscape assessments may also be required in some instances so this should also be ascertained.

Maintenance Maintenance is fundamental to all of the GI opportunities outlined in this document and needs to be considered at the project outset. For public spaces community planting and adoption of GI is encouraged however some of the opportunity projects identified, such as rain gardens, will require regular maintenance by the local authority for safety purposes. More complex GI projects, such as green walls and green roofs, may also require specialist maintenance contracts. A clear maintenance plan should be in place prior to project delivery and parties responsible for undertaking all maintenance elements identified.

Community planting of bee-friendly borders designed by a local business start-up. Photo credit: Georgia Neesham.

References [1]

Natural Capital â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Investing in a Green Infrastructure for a Future Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. (2015). London: GLA, p.2. www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/gitaskforcereport.hyperlink.pdf

[2]

Joint Strategic Needs Assessment: Outdoor Air Quality in Kingston. (2018). London: Kingston upon Thames Council, p.22 (Figure 8). data.kingston.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/JSNA_Air-QualityChapter-2018.pdf

[3]

www.airqualitynews.com/2019/10/04/why-green-infrastructure-is-critical-for-improving-air-quality/

[4]

Healthy Streets for London. (2017). London: Transport for London, p.13. content.tfl.gov.uk/healthy-streets-for-london.pdf

[5]

Debney, GROSS.MAX Landscape Architects, Design for London (2011). All London Green Grid, Arcadian Thames Area Framework. London: GLA, p.23 (Strategy Area 10). www.london.gov.uk/WHAT-WE-DO/environment/environment-publications/all-london-greengrid-and-area-frameworks

[6]

Economic Growth and Development Strategy 2018-2025. (2018). London: Kingston upon Thames Council, p.34. www.kingston.gov.uk/downloads/file/2237/economic_growth_and_development_strategy_2018-25

[7]

Flood Risk Position Statement, Kingston upon Thames. (2016). London: Members of Kingston Environment Centre and Kingston Environment Forum, p.2. e-voice.org.uk/kef/about/view/flooding/Flood_Risk_Position_statement_with_photos.pdf

[8]

www.alisonfure.blogspot.com/p/bonesgate-stream.html

[9]

Fure, A. (2017). Mammals of Kingston upon Thames 1998-2017. London: Furesfen, p.2. www.furesfen.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Small-mammals-of-Kingston-uponThames-AF42017.pdf

[10]

www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2018/mar/26/wildlife-modern-farming-insects-birds

[11]

Good Practice Guide Biodiversity & The Development Process in Kingston upon Thames. (2015). London: Kingston upon Thames Council, p.3. www.kingston.gov.uk/downloads/download/471/green_spaces_strategy

[12]

Gigl.org.uk. (2019). Non-Statutory SINCs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Greenspace Information for Greater London. [online] www.gigl.org.uk/designated-sites/non-statutory-sincs/ [Accessed 14 Oct. 2019]

[13]

The London Plan: The Spatial Development Strategy for London Consolidated with Alterations Since 2011. (2016). London: GLA, p.315. www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/planning/london-plan/current-london-plan/london-plan-2016-pdf

[14]

Debney, GROSS.MAX Landscape Architects, Design for London (2011). All London Green Grid, Arcadian Thames Area Framework. London: GLA, p.38, 39. www.london.gov.uk/WHAT-WE-DO/environment/environment-publications/all-london-greengrid-and-area-frameworks

[15]

We Made That (2018). Tolworth Area Plan. London: We Made That LLP, p.41, 42, 46, 48. www.kingstonletstalk.co.uk/934/documents/1651

[16]

www.data.gov.uk/dataset/f90fc274-78dc-4f33-8129-7c0dbbbb61e8/metropolitan-green-chains

[17]

www.kingston.gov.uk/info/200303/trees_and_hedges/726/trees_on_our_streets/3

[18]

The Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames: Allotment Strategy 2008-2018. (2008). London: Kingston upon Thames Council, p.3. www.kingston.gov.uk/info/200272/environment/734/allotments/2

[19]

London Environment Strategy. (2018). London: GLA, p.18. www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/london_environment_strategy_0.pdf

[20]

www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-48772448

[21]

tfl.gov.uk/travel-information/improvements-and-projects/managing-road-verges-for-wildlife

[22]

Valuing nature - a railway for people and wildlife. The Network Rail Vegetation Management Review. (2018). Network Rail, p.8. www.gov.uk/government/publications/network-rail-vegetation-management-review-valuingnature-a-railway-for-people-and-wildlife

[23]

The Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames: Tree Strategy 2015-2021. (2015). London: Kingston upon Thames Council, p.12. www.kingston.gov.uk/downloads/download/461/tree_strategy

[24]

www.kingston.gov.uk/info/200303/trees_and_hedges/726/trees_on_our_streets/3

[25]

www.kingston.gov.uk/info/200303/trees_and_hedges/726/trees_on_our_streets/7

[26]

www.kingston.gov.uk/downloads/download/1151/rbk_citizens_assembly_on_air_quality_-_ full_report

[27]

The GRO Green Roof Code: Green Roof Code of Best Practice for the UK 2014. (2014). Sheffield: Groundwork Sheffield, p.7, 8. www.livingroofs.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/grocode2014.pdf

[28]

www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=1009

[29]

www://greeninfrastructureconsultancy.com/the-greening-permit-in-paris/

[30]

http://www.studioweave.com/projects/tfl-toolkit/

[31]

www.rhs.org.uk/science/pdf/climate-and-sustainability/urban-greening/gardening-mattersurban-greening.pdf

Appendix Key funding opportunities tables taken from ‘Reimagining Kingston Town Centre’s Streets & Spaces’, pages 30-35, commisioned by RBK and produced by We Made That. Available online at: www.kingston.gov.uk/streetsandspaces

101

103

Greening the grey. Photo credit: Georgia Neesham.

With Thanks To The People of Tolworth Kingston Environment Centre Kingston University Citizen Zoo Alison Fure 121 Collective Court Farm Garden Centre Janice Horslen Garden Design The Greater London Authority Kingston upon Thames Council Greenspace Information for Greater London (GiGL)

105

The Community Brain exists to develop community cohesion using the widest range of the arts, education and local history in order to give people and place renewed importance and pride. The Community Brain is about utilising peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural talents and energies to develop stronger communities and relationships. It is about strengthening the natural networking and support that can happen in healthy societies creating more resilient communities. It is about believing everyone is brilliant. thecommunitybrain.org