Hackney is one of the most unique boroughs in London in terms of ecology. It is home to a number of green spaces and two reservoirs at Stoke Newington, which are notable both for their size and for their location close to the busy heart of the capital.

The reservoirs have had an interesting history. They were constructed in 1833 to secure drinking water supplies for north London and purify the flows from the New River. The West Reservoir was purchased by the local council and was transformed into a centre for water sports. It has become a huge attraction in the area, offering canoeing and sailing.

The East Reservoir has not had such a glamorous time. For many years it was sealed off so that people couldn’t access it. Luckily its fortunes have changed dramatically after a great deal of hard work from the London Wildlife Trust. At the start of May it was reopened to the public as a nature reserve. The reopening was the first time visitors have been allowed entry to the site in 200 years.

The site has been renamed the Woodberry Wetlands and a huge amount of work has gone into making it accessible to the public. A total of £1.5 million has been invested in the project, including £750,000 from the Heritage Fund Lottery to restore a historic Grade II listed coal house and £250,000 from developer Berkeley Homes for the creation of a bridge and boardwalk. The latter provided the funding after being impressed with the premium such an ecological site would add to homes in the nearing area. Thames Water also provided over £300,000 to help create the reserve.

The new nature reserve is home to some impressive wildlife including over fifty species of birds and six types of bats. Visitors will have many fantastic opportunities to see them and experience the ecological wonder. Entry to the site is free and visitors of all ages are welcome to stop by.

If you’re looking for an investment with a special ecological attraction close by, Hackney is the borough you should be looking at. It also offers the benefit that it is well connected to the City and the other fantastic attractions in central London. If you would like any advice on purchasing investment properties in Hounslow, Hackney, Lambeth or any other area of London, get in touch with our team today and we will provide the support you need.