Lewisham’s first-ever Tiny Forest planted by Mayor of Lewisham and children from Good Shepherd Primary School

Situated in Durham Hill, in Downham, this is an exciting and innovative planting scheme, in partnership with environmental charity Earthwatch Europe, to significantly speed up tree growth.

Lewisham’s parks were recently ranked as “outstanding”, with Lewisham performing as the best borough in London in the latest Good Parks for London report. This Tiny Forest adds to the 24,000 trees which have been planted in Lewisham in recent years to enhance biodiversity in the borough and is capable of attracting over 500 animal and plant species within the first three years.

Tiny Forests are dense fast-growing native woodlands, based on a forest management method developed by Dr Akira Miyawaki. They are about the size of a tennis court and are an attractive location for both wildlife and people to provide a range of benefits in the fight against climate change. This planting method encourages accelerated forest development and uses no chemicals or fertilisers.

It is part of Lewisham Council’s delivery of its new five-year Parks and Open Spaces Strategy, which aims to make our local parks and green spaces even better by placing a greater focus on creating local havens for biodiversity, improving volunteering opportunities and supporting residents – including young people – to be more closely involved.

Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham said:
“The Tiny Forest is such a wonderful addition to Durham Hill in Downham! We had a lot of fun planting trees with the children from Good Shepherd this week and they were really excited to be part of the project. Now we are exploring other parks to see if we can secure funding for more tiny forests around Lewisham.”

Councillor Patrick Codd, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport said:
“The Council has worked in partnership with Earthwatch and local community groups on this project and will continue to work together with partners to look after our new Tiny Forest for the community including watering and monitoring until the trees are established.

“Increasing tree cover is an important part of Lewisham’s Parks and Open Spaces Strategy (2020-25) and Climate Emergency Action Plan and our aim is to support nature, promote biodiversity, improve air, soil and water quality and aid flood protection.”

Louise Hartley, Tiny Forest Programme Manager at Earthwatch Europe, said:
“Tiny Forest provides rich opportunities for connecting young and old alike with the environment and sustainability. It’s vital that we give people the knowledge and skills to protect our natural world and inspire them to take positive action. We are delighted to be working with Lewisham Council to bring these inspiring spaces to Durham Hill.”