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We are one of only two Local Nature Reserves (LNR) within the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. (The other is Mudchute City Farm – and they are definitely worth a visit too).
We are also one of only two of the Magnificent Seven Victorian-era former garden cemeteries to also be recognised as an LNR. (Abney Park being the other, also worth a trip).
So what is a Local Nature Reserve?
A Local Nature Reserve is a statutory designation which affords an area of land some additional protections as a result of its natural interest and/or educational and research value. Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park and Ackroyd Drive Greenlink was awarded this designation by the local authority in 2000 after extensive work of the Friends of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park.
This designation was and still is really important. It means that the site is protected and conserved against developments, and that the site must continue to be managed for their biodiversity, conservation, as well as public enjoyment benefits. Because of their statutory designation, LNRs often benefit from stronger legal protections compared to typical public parks, and as a result, additional mitigation is awarded when there is a threat to that (as we see with the Bow Gasworks development).
And what is a Metropolitan Site of Importance for Nature Conservation?
In addition to being a LNR, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park is also recognised as a Metropolitan Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). This puts us in the most significant category of SINCs in London, recognized as critical for maintaining biodiversity across the entire city. They often include unique or rare habitats and species that are of particular value to London’s natural environment. Other SINCs are Epping Forest and Richmond Park.
Metropolitan SINCs are protected under both the London Plan and local borough planning policies. Development proposals affecting these sites must demonstrate that they will not harm the ecological value of the site.
