Green approach to address Barnes Common flooding

Community BlueScapes has launched installation of two new reedbeds in Barnes Common to reduce flooding and attract new wildlife to the area.

These new reedbeds will be situated beside an existing reedbed at Maisie’s Meadow and will add water storage capacity to the existing flood plain. The installation is planned for this summer and is estimated to take one year for the reedbed to be fully grown.

Reedbeds are a natural solution to flooding. They are excellent natural filters and remove pollutants from our water. They can store water during a flood and slow the movement of water around the Beverley Brook, reducing flood to nearby homes.

Some local species rely on reedbeds for their survival, like dragonflies and damselflies. Our new reedbeds will help birds like Cetti’s Warbler expand their breeding grounds and nesting sites. They are also an essential refuge for fish and other wildlife during floods. 

You can find out more about Community BlueScapes.