Itchycoo Park, Beckton is a hidden gem
And it shows how a community project can have wonderful effects for all.
Hidden among largest parks in East London, there is a patch of land called Itchycoo Park.
It is not named after the Small Face’s song of the same name, though I too find it all too beautiful. That honour goes to another East London park by the same name.
This Itchycoo was made as a gift to the people of Newham and forgotten about.
It got overrun with weeds and rats and rubbish. It became a hangout for people who sold drugs due to how dark and forgotten it was. The pond was a swamp with more shopping trolleys than ducks in the water.
Then a wonderful man called Brian changed all that.
With green fingers and a drive to make things nicer, Brian slowly improved the park and now it is a little hub for the community.
I didn’t take photos before (in 2019 when I passed it, I counted rats and rubbish) but in 2023 there are ducks, squirrels, magpies, 3 turtles and a scarecrow calling this place home:
I often come here to just relax and read. Sometimes I come here to watch the wildlife.
Whenever I do come, I always am thankful that community spirit is strong in places, and when one person has the drive to make a difference, it can spread.
Due to Brian’s actions, more people gather and chat around the area.
There was funding raised to build a viewing platform for wheelchair users and prams.
There is more conversations around community spaces and third space in particular.
There is community gardening for people to learn skills and socialize with other locals…
…and more funding asked for from the council to do even more wonders.
Small actions spread to bigger ripples and everyone, big or small can change their world with small, consistent actions or bigger ones.
I hope this post inspired you as Brian inspired me!
What small Park is your favourite in your area?
What is your favourite local area?
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