The Sewell Hammonds Estate has long been a beacon of heritage and innovation, blending traditional land use with forward-thinking development. When a disused section of the estate, most recently utilized as a sewage treatment works, became available, the estate owners envisioned a new purpose for the land. Partnering with Trivium Land as their dedicated land agents, they embarked on a remarkable journey to transform the site into a flourishing and inclusive community growing space. Here’s how this transformation unfolded, highlighting the planning and regulatory aspects, the development process, and the lasting impact on the local community.
Identifying the Potential for Transformation
The disused sewage treatment works presented several challenges. The land was severely overgrown, with dense brambles, invasive weeds, and self-seeded trees sprawling across the site. Strewn with remnants of old infrastructure, including rusting metal frameworks, broken concrete tanks, and defunct machinery, the area bore all the hallmarks of neglect.
Accessibility was another major obstacle, as the site was landlocked, with a small watercourse cutting off direct access.
Despite these challenges, Trivium Land recognized the untapped potential of this neglected space. Its position within the Sewell Hammonds Estate’s agricultural holdings offered a unique opportunity to repurpose the land for community benefit. The vision of creating a vibrant community growing space—one that could serve as a hub for sustainability, education, and inclusivity—aligned perfectly with the estate’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship.
Navigating Planning Permission and Agricultural Exemption
Transforming the site required navigating a complex planning landscape. While its industrial past presented unique challenges, the site’s designation within the estate’s agricultural holdings allowed it to qualify for agricultural exemption, streamlining the process. Trivium Land’s team worked closely with local planning authorities, presenting a comprehensive proposal that outlined the environmental, social, and economic benefits of the project.
Key elements of the proposal included:
Demonstrating how the project would promote biodiversity by reinstating ancient hedgerows and creating habitats for wildlife.
Outlining the community benefits of allotment gardening, such as improved mental and physical health, strengthened social ties, and reduced food miles.
Ensuring compliance with local planning policies, including sustainability goals and land-use regulations.
By proactively engaging with stakeholders and addressing potential concerns upfront, Trivium Land secured the necessary permissions and support to proceed with the transformation.
Transforming the Site: From Neglect to Vibrancy
The physical transformation of the site was a monumental task, requiring careful planning and execution. Trivium Land spearheaded a multi-phase approach to clear, restore, and repurpose the land.
Phase 1: Clearing Overgrowth and Remnants of Infrastructure
The first step was clearing the dense overgrowth that had consumed the site. Brambles and weeds were meticulously removed, while self-seeded trees were either pruned or relocated to more suitable areas. Rusting machinery and remnants of old infrastructure, including broken concrete tanks and obsolete pipelines, were dismantled and safely removed, ensuring the site was free from hazards.
Phase 2: Installing a New Culvert Section
To address the site’s landlocked nature, a new culvert section was installed over the watercourse. This critical infrastructure not only provided safe vehicular and pedestrian access but also improved drainage, mitigating the risk of flooding and ensuring long-term stability.
Phase 3: Assessing and Repurposing Existing Features
During the clearance process, the team discovered that the site’s concrete roadways were in surprisingly good condition despite years of neglect. Rather than removing and replacing them, Trivium Land opted to clean and repurpose these roadways, reducing costs and minimizing environmental impact while providing durable access paths for allotment users.
Phase 4: Reinstating Ancient Hedgerows
Over 1,000 native hawthorn saplings were planted to restore the site’s ancient hedgerows, enhancing biodiversity and providing vital shelter and corridors for wildlife. These hedgerows now serve as an essential habitat for birds, small mammals, and pollinators, while contributing to the site’s natural beauty.
Phase 5: Cleaning Crane Brook
Crane Brook, which runs adjacent to the site, had been subject to historical pollution issues. Trivium Land coordinated a thorough clean-up, removing debris and addressing sources of contamination. The rejuvenated brook now supports aquatic life and contributes to the area’s overall ecological health.
Phase 6: Creating Wildlife Habitats
Key pollinator habitats were established on redundant verges and grasslands surrounding the site. Wildflower meadows, bird boxes, and insect hotels were strategically introduced to attract bees, butterflies, and other vital species. Additionally, efforts were made to create suitable environments for the estate’s roaming deer population, ensuring they could coexist harmoniously with the new development.
A Thriving Community Space
Today, the former sewage treatment works has been transformed into Wharfside Park Allotment Gardens—a vibrant and inclusive community hub. The site has become a cornerstone of local life, offering a range of benefits and activities:
Individual Allotments
Residents rent plots to grow their own fruits, vegetables, and flowers. These allotments promote self-sufficiency, reduce reliance on store-bought produce, and encourage healthy eating habits.
Social Events
Seasonal events, such as harvest festivals, seed swaps, and open days, bring the community together, strengthening social bonds and celebrating the joys of gardening.
Community Self-Governance
Recognizing the value of empowering the local community, the Sewell Hammonds Estate recently made the decision to allow the allotment site to be self-governed. This move enables allotment holders to have greater autonomy in decision-making, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability. A community-led committee now oversees day-to-day operations, ensuring the gardens remain a welcoming and productive space for all.
The Benefits of Allotment Gardening
The transformation of this site has brought a wealth of benefits to the Sewell Hammonds Estate and the wider community:
Environmental Gains
Enhanced biodiversity through the introduction of native plants and wildlife habitats.
Cleaner waterways and improved ecosystems following the restoration of Crane Brook.
Health and Well-Being
Gardening promotes physical activity and mental health, offering a therapeutic outlet for stress.
Access to fresh, organic produce supports healthier lifestyles.
Community Building
The gardens foster a sense of community, uniting people from diverse backgrounds around shared goals.
Collaborative projects and events strengthen social cohesion and create lasting friendships.
Revitalization of Land
The project has turned a neglected, overgrown site into a vibrant community asset.
It exemplifies the Sewell Hammonds Estate’s commitment to sustainable land use and innovative thinking.
A Model for Sustainable Land Use
The successful transformation of this former sewage treatment works into Wharfside Park Allotment Gardens is a shining example of what can be achieved with vision, expertise, and community collaboration. Trivium Land’s role as land agents was instrumental in navigating planning processes, coordinating development, and ensuring the project’s long-term sustainability.
This case study demonstrates the potential of underutilized spaces to be reimagined for the greater good. With careful planning and a commitment to sustainability, any parcel of land—no matter how neglected—can become a cornerstone of community well-being and environmental health.
Interested in transforming your land or exploring similar opportunities? Contact Trivium Land to learn how our tailored services can bring your vision to life.
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