New shared path for Ladywell Fields

Construction on the new cycle/pedestrian path in the Middle Fields is now completed.  It links the Catford Green Development to the Ravensbourne bridge, connecting to the existing main path in the Middle Fields.  Now that the path has been laid, the next stages of work include the installation of lamp posts, tree planting along the route, and the placement of benches and other park furniture. 

Works in early May 2018

The path had been a condition of the planning consent granted to Barratts for the development on the old greyhound stadium site. The tarmacked surface replaces what had become a well worn, informal foot path along the 'desire line' chosen by park users.  It retains a large section of the middle field, facing the north field and adventure playground, to be used for football playing, dog walking etc.

Works in April 2018

The design of the path and the route had been discussed at User Group meetings in 2017 and 2019.  Anyone interested in getting involved with future changes to the park is welcome to join the User Group mailing list and come to the meetings which are always well publicised in the notice boards in the park.

Mysterious Circles in Ladywell Fields

These strange markings of unknown origin appeared on the ground at the curly bridge.  Get in touch if you can decipher their significance or shed light on their provenance 😉

Ladywell Fields Orchard Volunteer Session, Sunday 6th May 10.30am-12.00noon

We spent a glorious, easy going Sunday morning pruning the row of plum trees in the Ladywell Fields community orchard.  We snipped, cut and sawed to keep the trees growing healthily and into good shape.  The buds are already promising a rich harvest for this year.  We were a small group, giving everyone even better opportunity to benefit from Caroline's expert instruction. Thanks to all who took part in the volunteering.  

Next time you walk through the south field, take a look at our beautiful trees--and don't miss out on trying the fruit when the plums have ripened.  

Ladywell Fields River Clean-Up, Sunday 14 October 2018

Our regular Spring River Clean-Up, facilitated by Thames21, was held on Sunday, 22 April.  About twenty of us, adults and children, freed the Ravensbourne from litter an debris.

Blessed with dappled sunshine under the canopy of some outstandingly beautiful park trees, we could at times imagine ourselves in pristine countryside rather than an urban river.  Admittedly, the removal of dozens of items of plastic litter, discarded clothes and sodden picnic blankets, bits of scaffolding, two safe deposit boxes, a scooter and a shopping trolley all helped keep up the idyllic appearance. 

The surprise find of the day was a Doulton Lambeth glaze earthenware 'Batey' brown bottle in pristine condition, presumably used for selling ginger beer in the second half of the 19th century. 

Thanks to everyone who joined in, many for the first time--young people in particular.  We had some great conversations and made useful new contacts.  Watch this blog for forthcoming volunteering dates in Ladywell Fields. 

Petition for the pedestrian bridge from Catford Green development to Doggett Road

This bridge is a vital piece of pedestrian and cycling infrastructure needed to cross the Hayes line railway between Catford Green and to Doggett Road. It would offer direct access between Catford amenities, the Catford Green residential development, and the south and middle sections of Ladywell Fields without having to go via the congested South Circular Road.  It would also be a strategic link for cyclists, offering a safer alternative to the hazardous road bridge outside Catford stations and the narrow, inadequate 'curly bridge' in Ladywell Fields

Although the bridge had been part of Barratt Homes' original proposal for the Catford Green development, it has now been dropped from the plan.

Alison Hay started this petition to MP Heidi Alexander and Lewisham councillors to persuade Barratt Homes to work with the Council to reinstate the bridge.

To sign the petition, visit https://www.change.org/p/mp-heidi-alexander-re-instatement-of-the-pedestrian-bridge-from-the-catford-green-development-to-doggett-road.