You can trace the birth of Grange Farm back to the late 1800s when pressure to protect open park and heathland began to gather momentum. Slowly it began to establish itself as a place for young Londoners to enjoy for fresh air, sport and recreation away from congested and polluted inner cities. And became a thriving recreational destination after World War 2, attracting visitors to its abundant playing fields, community pools and towering diving boards.
There then followed the decline and during the 70s Grange Farm revenue and capital debts were accumulating. Construction of the M11 through its centre, split the estate in two and it was eventually closed in 1983 and left to ruin. However the collective memory of the ‘baby boom’ generation who had enjoyed Grange Farm in its heyday, ensured that’s its spirit never quite died. And in 2008 after a series of public consultations, conditional approval was granted for the development of the new Grange Farm.
Grange Farm in 2019
We won unanimous Planning Permission for a scheme that packed many new and innovative features and built on its history and ‘green belt’ location: four new football pitches, changing rooms, a community hall with kitchen and staff housing; all set within beautiful grounds that accommodate the Essex Wildlife Trust.
The energy efficiency makes a real difference
The ‘green’ roof provides a habitat for wildlife while reducing C02, it regulates rainwater discharge and reduces the chance of flash flooding that is becoming increasingly commonplace as climate change takes hold. As with all our work, energy consumption is key and the well-insulated fabric combines with solar panels and ground source heat pumps reducing energy demand substantially. ‘makes a real difference to our bills’
The green roof, oak elevations and low-level design follow the contours of the site and the surrounding land that bloom and blossom impressively in the summer. The sensitively incorporated nature reserve provides habitat for indigenous butterflies, wildflowers and plants and has established itself as an important educational resource for local schools and community groups.
People fall in love with the place when they first visit
Local engagement with the project has been one of the projects main successes. As well as a host of sporting groups the site provides a hub for people of all ages as well as families and social groups. It is cherished by those that work there and is looked after with pride by local people and staff alike.
We have continually engaged with the project and the many community based aspects at the centre. It is a project that is still developing; in 2019 we completed a further extension to the building providing an additional multipurpose community room, community garden and kitchen to cope with the increasing range of activities. These include health, fitness and nutrition classes which are helping to deliver better health outcomes for local people. The new pavilion now creates revenue for the governing trust and the future for Grange Farm, once again, looks secure.
Bringing Grange Farm back to where it was is quite an achievement
Rober Draper, Site Manager
