Brent Cross West team helps local schools go green
The VolkerFitzpatrick Brent Cross West station team recently supported two local activities that will benefit Barnet’s natural environment and nurture its youngest residents.
In the first project, in collaboration with charity GROW, VolkerFitzpatrick and ASM Rail dug a large new pond in the grounds of the six-acre farm and outdoor learning hub adjacent to Totteridge Academy. The new pond will encourage biodiversity and provide additional drainage to help combat flooding, as it is set in a naturally low-level area. Later in the year, new hedging will be added, and a beehive garden area planted thanks to the team’s fundraising efforts that have already raised over £1,000.
Meanwhile, at Whitefield School, an unused patch outside was transformed into a beautiful new breakout space for teachers and pupils aged 11-18 to enjoy. Repurposing spare timber kindly donated from other projects, the decked area is now a practical and picturesque place to study, relax and meet friends. The VolkerFitzpatrick team worked alongside MACE on the project, while materials and supplies were donated by PLS Civil Engineering, Carver Engineering Ltd, Oliver Connell Construction and VolkerFitzpatrick.
Dave Goodey, senior works manager at VolkerFitzpatrick said: We’re always looking for ways to support the local communities in which we work, so when we saw this underused area of the Whitefield’s School, and we knew we had leftover quality timber, it was a no brainer to suggest decking to create a new social space. Everyone came together on the day and worked hard in a short space of time to deliver a brilliant area for the kids and teachers to relax and enjoy for years to come.”
Injesh Khadka, social value adviser at VolkerFitzpatrick said: It was a similar story over at GROW and Totteridge Academy. Through discussions with the charity, we identified a need for better drainage. Having the tools to do the job – we offered to lend a hand. The pond will be a great addition to GROW’s land, helping to increase the biodiversity and providing an even richer environment for the school children to get involved with.”
Find out more about Brent Cross Cricklewood programme and how it is building accessible green spaces for all here, and the new Brent Cross West station here.
