How a fresh look at front gardens could help save the planet

Front gardens in London are disappearing fast, with off-street parking taking the place of plants, experts have warned. The transition to hard standing adds to urban warming and reduces flood defences.

‘In some areas we have seen the loss of 40% of front gardens’ said Paul de Zylva, of Quaggy Waterways Action Group. ‘Without green front spaces, we lose vital rainwater management, local wildlife habitats, and natural cooling during heatwaves.’

But speakers told the 100 attendees at a CPRE webinar in mid November there was some good news. Designers, water technicians and campaigners believe imaginative design and planting can reinvigorate our gardens.

Imagine stepping out of your front door into a lush, welcoming space filled with pollinators buzzing around native flowers, a garden that keeps your neighbourhood cooler, and helps absorb rainwater during heavy storms.

Such a vision is already coming to life in parts of London. Webinar attendees heard of inspiring projects like the Ealing Front Gardens Project, where locals are working to restore greenery by using permeable surfaces and planting native species to tackle biodiversity loss and manage water runoff.

Others are transforming their gardens into rainwater catchments, using creative features like rain chains and eco-friendly mulch to manage overflow and boost biodiversity.

These efforts not only benefit the environment, but also create a sense of pride and connection among neighbours.

‘Transforming your garden into a biodiverse habitat which helps manage flooding in your garden doesn’t need technical expertise’ said water expert Dr Ari Cooper-Davis. ‘You can start with simple and accessible solutions like water butt planters which will make a massive difference.’

There are also creative designers who can help you rethink your garden space, using ideas which have won medals at RHS shows. These include Wendy Allen who won best sustainable garden award with an inspiring design bringing together green roof space, rain planter and rain chains.

‘Such design works alongside parking a car and can even include a recharging point,’ said Wendy. ‘You can get professional help, or have a look at the UK Rain Garden Guide for practical inspirations.’

If you’re inspired, you can start small by planting a few wildflowers or creating a rain garden that keeps your home beautiful and sustainable.

Explore resources like the National Park City Front Gardens or connect with groups like Our Rainwater for practical advice.

For a recording of the webinar, see Front gardens on the front line – webinar recording and presentations – CPRE London

Join CPRE London today to learn, get support, and be part of a movement making our city greener, more vibrant, and better for everyone.

https://www.raingarden.uk/

https://frontgardens.nationalparkcity.org/

https://frontgardens.nationalparkcity.org/

https://www.wendyallendesigns.co.uk/

https://ourrainwater.com/