The power of partnership: Community BlueScapes Fair celebrates flood resilience and climate action

Residents, families, partners, and stakeholders flocked to the OSO Arts Centre in Barnes on Saturday for the latest Community BlueScapes Fair.

The free community event marked the final year of the Community BlueScapes programme and celebrated local action on flood resilience and climate adaptation across the Beverley Brook catchment.

Councillor Julia Neden-Watts, Richmond Council Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee, said: “Flood resilience is an issue rising up the agenda across London’s river and floodplain communities and is particularly prevalent in Richmond, the only London borough spanning both sides of the River Thames.

“The Community BlueScapes Fair brought people together to celebrate the inspiring and innovative work that has already been delivered across the Beverley Brook catchment and to learn more about how we can all play a part in building a more climate-resilient borough.

“Residents and families had the chance to explore practical ideas, speak to knowledgeable partners, and enjoy activities that made flood resilience and climate adaptation accessible and engaging.

“Community BlueScapes has shown the power of partnership in creating healthier, greener places and helping residents of all ages prepare for the future.”

The event built on the success of the 2025 Flood Resilience Fair and the 2024 Climate and Nature Fair, creating another opportunity for local people to connect with the partner organisations involved in the programme, find out about upcoming work and share their views on future projects.

Mike Hildesley, Community BlueScapes board member and Chair of Barnes Common Limited, said: “The fair reflected the spirit of Community BlueScapes by bringing together local people, partners, and practical action in one place.

“It was wonderful to see so many residents taking an interest in flood resilience, climate adaptation and the work being delivered across the catchment.

“The programme has built strong local partnerships and a real sense of shared purpose, and that will continue to make a difference well beyond this final year.”

Community BlueScapes is funded by DEFRA’s flood and coastal resilience innovation programme (FCRIP) and is managed by the Environment Agency. It is a partnership between Richmond Council, WWT – the charity for wetlands and wildlife and Barnes Common Limited.

It has supported a range of projects focused on flood resilience, enhancing nature and community engagement across the Beverley Brook catchment.

As the programme reaches its final year, the team will ensure that its legacy enables residents to continue to benefit from stronger community networks, greater awareness of climate adaptation, and opportunities to get involved in future environmental work locally.

Find out more about Community BlueScapes.