If you’re a nature lover, you might be interested in Seething Wells, a neighbourhood in southwest London that’s on the border between Surbiton in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames in Greater London and Elmbridge in Surrey. The area is historically significant because it used to be a waterworks that supplied London with water from the River Thames. Nowadays, it’s mainly a residential area, but it still has some features that make it a great place for nature lovers.
Here are some reasons why Seething Wells is the perfect neighbourhood for nature lovers:
1. Designated as Metropolitan Open Land and Site of Importance for Nature Conservation
Seething Wells is designated as both a Metropolitan Open Land and a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation by the planning system. These designations help protect the area from development and preserve its ecological value [1][4][5].
2. Filter Beds
Seething Wells has decommissioned filter beds, which are now a designated site of nature conservation importance. The filter beds have been the subject of an ongoing campaign by local environmentalists, and they’re home to a variety of plant and animal species. They’re also an important part of the area’s history, as they were part of the old Victorian waterworks in the area and provided evidence to Dr John Snow that London’s cholera outbreak was water-based [2]10.
3. Wildlife
Seething Wells is home to a variety of wildlife, including bats, which can be seen flying around the filter beds at dusk. An independent review of wildlife sites in Kingston found that the Seething Wells Filter Beds are at risk of losing their designation as a site of nature conservation importance due to a decline in ecological value [4]5].
4. Court Order to Maintain the Site
The owner of Seething Wells Filter Beds, Cascina Limited, was ordered by Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court to carry out overdue maintenance work to the site and contribute £12,000 to Kingston Council’s legal fees. This latest step sees the landowner tasked with substantial maintenance work on the site [6].
5. Public Input
Residents can have their say on the protection of Seething Wells by using Article 4 Direction. It is a specific and targeted direction that will last for six months. It was introduced in response to an application to confirm if the erection of fencing at Seething Wells Filter Beds is permitted development. Residents will be able to have their say on whether this action should be made permanent during a six-week consultation period [7].
6. Community Involvement
The Seething Wells Action Group is a group of people who are concerned about the ongoing destruction of Seething Wells Filter Beds. The filter beds are a Site of Importance to Nature Conservation, located on Metropolitan Open Land in Surbiton’s Riverside South Conservation area. The group was formed to raise awareness about the site’s ecological value and to encourage the local authorities to protect it from further damage. The group is also an excellent platform for residents to share their pictures, videos, and details of its wildlife and ecology [8].
7. Natural Beauty
Seething Wells Filter Beds and its surrounding areas are known for their natural beauty. The site is unique in its blend of historic features and ecological importance. The site has been attracting tourists and visitors who appreciate the natural surroundings and the historical significance of the filter beds [10].
In conclusion, Seething Wells is a neighbourhood that’s perfect for nature lovers. It’s designated as Metropolitan Open Land and a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation, home to wildlife, and has a rich history. The filter beds have been attracting attention from local environmentalists who want to protect the area’s ecological value. The recent court order to maintain the site is an indication that local authorities are taking the matter seriously. Residents can also have their say on the protection of Seething Wells through Article 4 Direction. The Seething Wells Action Group is an excellent platform for residents to share their concerns and appreciate the natural surroundings of the area. Finally, Seething Wells is known for its natural beauty and attracts tourists and visitors who appreciate the blend of natural and historical significance.