Nature conservation work is back in full swing across Redbridge following the festive break, and as a new year begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the positive impact made over the past year. Thanks to the dedication of staff and the invaluable support of volunteers, 2025 was a strong year for protecting and enhancing local wildlife and habitats.
Nature conservation work is back in full swing across Redbridge following the festive break, and as a new year begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the positive impact made over the past year. Thanks to the dedication of staff and the invaluable support of volunteers, 2025 was a strong year for protecting and enhancing local wildlife and habitats.
Throughout the year, work focused on creating and managing priority habitats identified by the London Local Nature Recovery Strategy. This included the creation of over 3,600 square metres of new wildflower meadows at Claybury Park, Elmhurst Gardens and the Redbridge Cycling Centre, helping to support pollinators such as bees and butterflies. New ponds were also introduced across allotment sites, providing vital habitats for frogs, toads, dragonflies and other aquatic species. Even small ponds made from recycled containers have already begun to make a difference.
Microhabitats were another key focus, with dead wood piles, invertebrate refuges and ‘dead hedges’ created across urban parks. These features provide shelter and breeding spaces for insects, small mammals and other wildlife, particularly in areas where natural refuges are limited.
Wildlife monitoring played an important role in understanding the biodiversity of Redbridge’s open spaces. Volunteers took part in butterfly, invertebrate and bird surveys, recording over 300 animal species across the borough. Highlights included sightings of the nationally scarce brown hairstreak butterfly at Claybury Park, more than 100 bird species across local parks, and rare visitors such as a spotted crake in South Park. Encouragingly, habitats continue to support declining species including skylarks, cuckoos and lapwings.
Orchards were also a major focus, with ongoing management at Claybury Park, Hainault Lodge and Roding Valley Park. Volunteers helped harvest over 500kg of apples from Claybury Park, which were later used locally, showcasing how conservation can benefit both wildlife and the community.
Looking ahead, nature conservation work will continue across Redbridge with plans for woodland management, pond improvements, orchard planting, wildflower sowing, river restoration and expanded wildlife surveys. There will be plenty of opportunities for volunteers to get involved and help protect local nature in the year ahead.
If you interested in taking part or learning more about local conservation efforts, opportunities will be shared through upcoming newsletters and or view workdays events here.
