Morden Hall Park sits at the heart of the Wandle Valley with almost 50,000 people living within a kilometre of this historic National Trust property.
It is an important local green space in the midst of a heavily urbanised area where communities can connect with nature, take part in leisure activities and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of an open, natural environment.
One of the key features of this site is the natural wetlands that lie alongside the river; a very special ecosystem that supports a rich variety of birds, plants, invertebrates and fish!
Between 2015 – 2018, Living Wandle funded 5 projects to enhance and protect the wetlands.
Wetlands Boardwalk
A new wooden boardwalk complete with a high viewing platform was installed to enhance and improve access to the wetlands. Visitors can now explore the centre of the wetlands to get closer to nature without disturbing it!
The boardwalk was proudly opened to the public in November 2016 and replaces the original trail around the wetlands, which was often waterlogged and too muddy to walk during winter months.
Habitat Management
Restoration and habitat improvement works were carried out on the overgrown reed bed and a number of open water areas were created to encourage more diversity of plants and animals.
The National Trust have produced a new management plan for the wetlands to enhance it into the future, and a Wednesday Wetland Volunteer Group has been set up to help with its long term management.
To join the Wednesday Wetland Group or to find out more please contact the National Trust at mordenhallpark@nationaltrust.org.uk
Access Bridges
Two bridges crossing the river were upgraded to increase accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists and National Trust vehicles to access the wetlands and improve their management.
Learning Equipment
A suite of learning equipment was purchased for pond dipping, moth monitoring, bat detecting and bird watching enabling school and community groups to take part in wildlife events and survey activities in the wetlands.
Wetland Management Equipment
A small boat was purchased for to aid management of the wetlands and controlling invasive species in the Park, at Watermeads Nature Reserve and other nearby green spaces that the River Wandle flows through.
This project is part of the wider Living Wandle Landscape Partnership Scheme, supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund.
