In the early days of becoming a group we tried enhancing the grass verges along London Road. We did wildflower strips, as well as planting bulbs from a grant we got from Metropolitan Public Gardens Association.
Although Sutton Council were involved, the results were very mixed. The wildflower seeds on the BedZED verge were just starting to grow and the council mowed over them. We did a second attempt a year or so later and actually got some flowers, but along with the bulbs, these too got mown, so no repeat flowering.
Lesson learnt – ensure all new planting, even done with the help of the council, needs to be put onto their maintenance programme!
Hackbridge Station
We were involved with the architects in delivering a new path for platform 2. After our wish for a mini high line with views over Beddington Farmlands failed (The High Line), we were invited to provide a planting brief, which was more successful with some lovely espalier pair trees. Like with all planting schemes, maintenance is a major issue due to lack of funding.
Hackbridge & Beddington Corner Neighbourhood Development Group 