Lamlash Street

Lamlash Garden is a reclaimed road, in the heart of the newly created West Square conservation area, north of the Elephant & Castle roundabout. Local residents, led by Hayles TRA, alongside architecture practice what if: projects, transformed this neglected road from a fly-tipping hotspot into a thriving community garden in the space of about two years. The new public- space includes an urban mini-orchard of plum, apple, pear, cobnut and fig trees, plant beds with meadow-type planting, raised planters for seasonal fruit and vegetables, seating and relaxation spaces. It has become a place to sit and relax, bump into neighbours, have a natter or simply to pass through – in fact, it encourages people to socialise, and the recent street party enjoyed – by far – the largest turnout in the history of the TRA’s 20-year+ existence.

In March 2016 and with help from what if: projects Lamlash Garden has been awarded further Cleaner Greener Safer Funding by Southwark Council to expand the project.

“Lamlash Garden is our area’s short-cut of choice, because you never know who you will meet, and you’re likely to see someone and stop for a chat, and ultimately these little things make everyday life a little sweeter. With hindsight it may seem obvious, but it is almost impossible to create a community without a community space.”
Karen Cheung, local resident, Hayles TRA committee

In collaboration with the Lamlash Street Garden Group and the Hayles TRA we are now planning to transform two underused courtyard sites in Elephant & Castle used mainly for fly-tipping and parking into a much needed neighbourhood hub and work spaces for the diverse local communities. The idea is to bring these former industrial yards embedded in this residential area back into production. More info.

Short film of Lamlash Street Garden, supported by Mayor of London.
Film in support of the castle place crowdfunding.