Fircroft Primary celebrates Springfield Park
The first part of Springfield Park was formally opened on 10 October – World Mental Health Day – as Fircroft Primary School visited Springfield Village.
Staff and children from the school, as well as members of the South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust’s Executive Team, planted a tree in the park alongside some speeches, before the children each planted their own flowers to take home.
Speaking at the event, Trust Better Communities Programme Director, Ian Garlington said:"Springfield Village is the community development in London since the 2012 Olympic Park, and our park is a huge component of our village and is transforming the landscape of the area for generations. We know that access to open spaces and green, sustainable projects are priorities for south west Londonders and this programme recognises that commitment."
One of the school children who attended the event said:
“We are beyond happy that there is a local facility where we can come and spend time outdoors to help with our physical and mental well-being. This is a beautiful green space which we are so lucky to have in such close proximity to us. We cannot wait to start using it!”
The first part of the park is home to a huge variety of plant and animal life as well as open ponds, gardens, paths and a footbridge. Among the hundreds of sustainably sourced trees and plants, there are around four acres of wild grass and flowers creating vital wildlife corridors.
Already calling the park home are a range of geese, mallard ducks, heron and coots as well as common frogs and toads. We have also spotted dragonflies, ladybirds, butterflies, moths, and various types of bees as well as a wealth of creepy crawlies, which is amazing for the biodiversity of the park. Visit the part today and see what you can find!
In 2024, a further 16 acres of parkland will open, and will boast a pavilion café, sensory gardens, children's playground, a youth shelter and areas for ball games – as well as a further 400 new trees and shrubs. An amphitheatre, another large green and pond and a further 140 trees and shrubs with more wild grasses and flowers, will also open.
Simon Hogg, Leader of Wandsworth Council said:
“It is fantastic to see the first phase of the incredible Springfield Park formally opening up today - great news for the community and great news for Wandsworth. We’re delighted the historical Springfield site is being redeveloped into parkland, playgrounds and sports facilities for the wider community to enjoy. Springfield park adds to the fantastic range of green spaces available in the borough – one of the many reasons Wandsworth is such a great place to live, work and visit. Today’s opening on World Mental Health day is a reminder of the continuing commitment by South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust to provide the best quality care, treatment and support to the people who use their services - ensuring local people continue to be supported with their mental health and wellbeing.”
You can find out more about Springfield Village – and our plans to develop our other sites on our website here.
