Green Community

Connecting New Malden and Raynes Park, Beeline Way is more than just a pedestrian and cycle route. It’s a vital natural space boasting a historic cattle bridge, a children's play area, protected ancient woodland, a wetland, pocket park with seating and the ancient Beverley Brook.

Looking after this unique green artery is a dedicated group of local volunteers - the Friends of Beeline Way.

Their ongoing commitment helps ensure Beeline Way remains a thriving green stretch for the area and is a testament to the power of the community. Their work is especially crucial as Beeline Way is officially recognised as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), supporting a rich tapestry of local wildlife.

The core of their work involves coming together to plant and maintain flowers, trees, and shrubs, directly supporting the diverse ecosystem that calls Beeline Way home. This also includes everything from ensuring plant health to creating habitats for local wildlife.

They regularly organise events that encourage community participation; from litter picks that keep the area tidy, to constructing hedgehog hides, and providing safe havens for wildlife.

To support their work the council awarded the group a Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise Sector (VCSE) Green Grant to create an innovative water harvesting sculpture, in partnership with the 121 Collective.

In the shape of a stunning giant acorn, the sculpture houses a 2000 litre water butt, which collects rain water from a nearby pedestrian footway. 

Working with Two Circle Design, local people were invited to a willow weaving session, to create the sculpture which now provides vital water to support the Friends of Beeline Way’s projects and creates a sense of community pride. 

This is particularly important given the longer periods of drier weather which are being experienced more frequently due to climate change.

The Friends of Beeline Way are a small but dedicated group, and they always welcome new hands and fresh perspectives. If you're passionate about nature, enjoy being outdoors, and want to make a difference in the area, they'd love to hear from you.

Visit their website to find out more and to get involved.