Enfield Council has installed the rain garden and playground at Hazelwood School using sustainable drainage system principles

Hazelwood School pupils with council leader Ergin Erbil (credit Enfield Council)

Pupils at a Palmers Green primary school have celebrated the installation of a rain garden and green play space designed to reduce flood risk.

The new sustainable drainage system at Hazelwood School in Hazelwood Lane was designed and installed by Enfield Council. It provides a “natural approach to flood protection” by converting the previous asphalt playground into a multifunctional green space filled with plants, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees.

To officially open the playground, council leader Ergin Erbil celebrated with the pupils and teachers by planting the first tree during a session this morning (Friday 25th).

Cllr Erbil said: “Climate action will continue to be at the heart of Enfield Council placemaking and design policy. This is why it is great to see Hazelwood School make impactful change by working with Enfield Council to install this feature.

“As our community continues to grow, it is essential that our response as a borough engages future generations at an early age. By incorporating SuDS into school environments, we can create educational opportunities to teach our children how to better protect our planet.”

The new sustainable playground at Hazelwood Primary School

The design integrates natural play equipment, like large logs and stepping stones, offering a space for children to enjoy, play, and learn first-hand about biodiversity, the environment, and climate change.

The project was funded by the Environment Agency and supported by Section 106 monies, which are paid by local developers when they win planning permission.

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