Biodiversity-boosting schemes begin in Leicester parks
Work is set to begin on projects in Leicester that will aim to slow down the flow of water while delivering wider benefits for nature, the environment and local people.
Ocean Road open space, Willowbrook Park and Humberstone Park will all see new habitats created as part of the Leicester Urban Natural Flood Management (NFM) project, which is being delivered by Leicester City Council in partnership with the Trent Rivers Trust.
Teams will be on site to start work at Ocean Road from the week beginning 9 November, with work due to begin at Willowbrook Park and Humberstone Park later in the month.
The works will include reshaping sections of the brook to improve its natural form, creating ponds and wetland scrapes that can temporarily store water during periods of heavy rainfall, and introducing features that help to slow and manage the flow of water. These nature-based solutions are designed to hold back surface water, improve river function and support a wider range of wildlife habitats.
Residents visiting the parks may see small machinery on site as riverbanks are being re-profiled and new wetland areas created. Temporary fencing will be installed around working areas to keep park users safe while work is taking place.
The scheme is part of the Leicester Urban NFM project, which was awarded £834,000 of funding in February 2024. The project is funded by Defra and managed by the Environment Agency.
Natural flood management techniques work with the landscape to slow the movement of water, helping to reduce pressure on drainage systems and watercourses during periods of intense rainfall.
Councillor Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: "Natural flood management is an important way to build greater resilience to flooding while also bringing environmental benefits for local communities.
"By working with nature to slow the flow of water, we can help reduce flood risk downstream and create valuable habitats that support biodiversity.
"The improvements at Ocean Road Open Space, Willowbrook Park and Humberstone Park will leave a lasting legacy for both people and wildlife."
Work is expected to be completed at each site in a few weeks, subject to weather conditions.
Leicester City Council News - Published on Friday, November 6, 2026
