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History
The Greenwich Peninsula was originally made up of
agricultural fields, marshes and even a large millpond, and was
historically known as Greenwich Marsh. The area became heavily
industrialised from the late 1880s onwards with gas and chemical
works and a major shipbuilding yard. The Blackwall Tunnel, built
in 1897, destroyed much of the remaining field and marsh. In fact
there was no green space left on the Peninsula by 1968 except
the British Gas Playing Fields where the Sainsbury's and Comet
superstores are now located.
From the 1970s onwards the Gas Works declined and
marsh began to reappear on derelict land.
English Partnerships bought the land in 1997 and
set in place a massive regeneration project, which included bringing
121 hectares of neglected land back to life. Innovative and exciting
new schemes were put in to place, including restoration of parts
of the riverbank and the creation of the Greenwich Peninsula Ecology
Park as a freshwater habitat.
In the Park
The Park is made up of an inner and outer lake.
The outer lake area has open access at all times. The inner lake
area is accessible only through the Gatehouse during opening hours.
A fascinating variety of wildlife thrives in the
Park, including frogs, toads and newts, while there is a huge
array of 'minibeasts'. In spring and summer the Park comes alive
with brightly coloured dragonflies and damselflies, and look out
for butterflies over the meadow areas.
Specially designed bird hides allow you to watch
the many different species, both local and visiting, without disturbing
them. As the seasons change, so do the types of birds you are
likely to see . Don't forget to have a look along the bank of
the River Thames as well.
Whatever the season, there is something at the Park
for everyone - whether you enjoy bird watching, looking at wildflowers
or just relaxing in beautiful surroundings.
There are a host of organised activities you can
join in with - from evening bat walks to summer fun days for the
family! During term time, the Park is open for school visits where
children can experience nature first hand. Ask the Wardens for
more details.
 Contact
details, access, and opening times
GPEP
Staff
What's
about in the Park this month?
Volunteering
at the Park
Information
for Primary School Teachers
Health
and Safety Guidelines for Visiting Schools
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