Parklets and rain gardens

We are planning to create small green spaces in several locations across Richmond. These will include parklets and rain gardens.

Parklets

A parklet is a small urban garden with plants, shrubs, and wildflowers. It may also include features such as rockeries, seating, and artwork.

Parklets are made up of large planter structures that hold plants and shrubs, and may also provide seating. This type of parklet is considered semi‑permanent because it sits above ground and can be moved if needed.

Importantly, every parklet is designed to suit the character and needs of its location, which means no two parklets are exactly the same.

Rain gardens

A rain garden, also known as a sustainable urban drainage system, is usually a permanent feature created by digging into the ground to provide a bed for plants, shrubs, and small trees.

Rain gardens help reduce flood risk by capturing rainfall before it enters the piped drainage network. The water is then released slowly over time or allowed to soak naturally into the ground.

Benefits

Parklets and rain gardens aim to:

• Create greener and cooler local spaces
• Improve wellbeing by bringing people closer to nature
• Help adults and children see how plants grow in their local area
• Help cool and filter the air through plants and shrubs
• Provide small pockets of shade as plants grow and mature
• Reduce local flooding risk by soaking up excess rainwater

Locations we are considering

Using data from across the borough, we have identified locations where parklets and rain gardens are most needed.

In this first phase, we are considering following locations: 

• Montrose Avenue (at the junction with Percy Road) 
• Ellerman Avenue (as part of the greenspace near Lyndhurst Avenue)

To identify these locations, we worked with a specialist organisation to map data on flooding, overheating, demographic factors, and other climate-related risks. We then looked across the borough to highlight areas with the greatest need for parklets and rain gardens.

This information was considered alongside practical factors, such as the availability of space, road suitability, and the presence of gas and electricity infrastructure. You can view this data on our Climate Risk map.

Design proposals

Parklets and rain gardens will be designed to fit the characteristics and needs of each location. When draft designs are ready, we will add them to this webpage so residents can view them and share questions or feedback.

You can send us your feedback by completing the online form or by emailing climatechange@richmond.gov.uk.

Installation process

The full process, from selecting a site to installation can take six months to a year. Once a site has been agreed and the design and engagement work is complete, the installation itself usually takes only a few weeks.

We are working with an experienced company called Meristem, who will design and deliver the parklets and rain gardens.

The main stages in delivery are:

1. Site identification and selection
2. Site approvals from relevant council teams and councillors
3. Review and feedback from residents and the local community
4. Design of the parklet or rain garden
5. Design review and approval
6. Installation
7. Monitoring (ongoing)
8. Maintenance (ongoing)

Maintenance

Rain gardens usually function as natural green spaces and require little maintenance, though monitoring of drainage inlets and care for any new plants is important.

Parklets will be designed to be low-maintenance, but still need regular care. This includes tasks such as deadheading flowers and pruning, clearing excess leaves from the planters, and general tidying. During the summer months, regular watering will also be needed.

We are encouraging residents, local gardening groups, businesses, schools, and others to get involved by becoming a parklet and rain garden keeper. This is a chance to interact with nature and to practise gardening skills while helping to care for the space. We will provide maintenance guides to support anyone who would like to get involved.

How to get involved

Whether you're an experienced gardener or want to learn, you can help look after a local parklet or rain garden.

Complete the online form to register your interest or share feedback.