IMPACT
The Friends exists to bring the community together and deliver sustainable improvements and facilities in Blythe Hill Fields. We pay for these through money raised at the annual festival and various funding applications we make over the course of the year.
Our Projects are chosen in consultation with park users. Look below to find out about some of our recent undertakings. See our project timeline for information on our previous impact.
Biodiversity enhancements
Winter 2023/24
The Friends planted 12 new trees, added new meadow plant species, and created butterfly shelters consisting of blocks of shrub whips. This holistic approach to planting was designed to boost wildlife habitats in the Fields and was delivered with the support of Butterfly Conservation and guidance from Lewisham’s Head of Ecology.
Planting blight resistant elm trees
New park signs
October 2022
The 2018 festival objective was to raise funds for much needed park signs that would also tell the story of Blythe Hill's history and the new and interesting wildlife that can be seen here. We worked hard and have managed to secure funding through a combination of the Veolia Community Fund, the Crofton Park Ward Assembly Fund and money raised from the 2018 festival. We are working with the Council and Glendale to design the signs and hope to have these installed soon.
Drinking water fountain
August 2021
August 2021 saw the new drinking water fountain installed and fully operational near the Blythe Hill Lane entrance. The fountain has both drinking and bottle filling facilities which we hope will encourage healthy living and a reduction in single use plastics. This was a joint venture between the Friends of Blythe Hill Fields, Lewisham Council and Glendale, with funding from the Lewisham Greening Fund. Thanks to all involved.
Playground Improvements
June 2019
In 2019, we added three new pieces of playground equipment. This was paid for by 2016 festival surplus, a donation and other funds.
Table Tennis Table
June 2018
The Friends installed a new table tennis table which was voted for by Blythe Hill Fields festival-goers. This was made possible with funds raised from the previous festival.
Trim Trail
June 2015
With the help of The Big Lottery Fund, the Trim Trail was installed in 2015.
And more...
Since 2003, The Friends have instigated many improvements in the Fields, such as upgrading the benches, playground and bins, installing bird boxes, planting numerous trees, spring bulbs, hedge whips, and we have created wildlife zones and stag beetle loggeries to help support local wildlife.
Current projects
For more about our current work please visit Projects.