Woodberry Wetlands is a new nature reserve being developed by London Wildlife Trust on the site of Stoke Newington’s East Reservoir.
As part of the development, the Trust will be dredging silt from the reservoir to create 13,000 square meters of new reedbed, more than doubling this important habitat at the reservoir for east London’s wildlife.
The East Reservoir was constructed in 1833 to hold water from the New River, which had been supplying fresh water from Hertfordshire to London since 1613. Over the last 80 years the New River has gradually deposited a layer of silt that now lies up to 4m thick on the reservoir bed.
David Mooney, London Wildlife Trust’s East London Development Manager : “ This is large scale nature conservation in the heart of London. As Woodberry Wetlands develops it will become increasingly important for wildlife and people seeking nature and tranquility in the midst of a hectic city.”
“Using the silt that has built up naturally in the reservoir we will create a network of interconnecting, wildlife-friendly habitats and micro-habitats that will provide a fascinating window on nature for school groups and other visitors.”
Work will take place during February and March 2015 using specialist contractors Salix River & Wetland Services Limited. Aquatic diggers will move silt from the reservoir bed and place it behind submerged fences made of hazel and chestnut.