Barking and Dagenham council has published a new master plan for Ripple Nature Reserve, setting out a long-term vision to protect and enhance one of the borough’s most important natural assets while improving access for local people.

The master plan focuses on strengthening biodiversity, supporting nature recovery and creating a resilient green space that can play a meaningful role in addressing climate and environmental challenges. Proposals include habitat enhancement, improved connectivity for wildlife and carefully considered access that allows residents to experience nature while protecting sensitive environments.

Ripple Nature Reserve sits alongside areas of significant regeneration and represents a rare opportunity to ensure that growth is balanced with high-quality green infrastructure. Access to nature on residents’ doorsteps is increasingly recognised as essential to health, wellbeing and environmental education, particularly in urban areas.

The council has been clear that funding will need to be secured before the proposals can be delivered. Work will now focus on identifying investment and partnership opportunities to ensure the master plan can be brought to life and the reserve opened up for wider community use.

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, said: 
“This master plan is about making sure the benefits of nature are shared by our communities. Ripple Nature Reserve has the potential to become a space where residents can reconnect with the natural environment, support their wellbeing and feel part of a greener future for the borough as regeneration continues.” 

Barking and Dagenham Council will continue to work with environmental partners and funders to help realise the vision for Ripple Nature Reserve, ensuring it delivers long-term benefits for both people and nature.

The borough is also leading the way to reduce carbon emissions and improve local green environments and was recently named London’s lowest carbon emitter for the eighth year running.