Wasteland

Wildlife can thrive in the most unusual of places, including reclaimed industrial wasteland and alongside railway tracks.

What is wasteland?
London’s remaining wastelands were once the site of railway sidings, factories, housing, docks or power stations. Whether colonised naturally or created, the diversity these areas support can be unique, providing a mosaic of species that enrich our urban environment. Railway linesides also provide vital green corridors for a variety of plants and animals.

Whose habitat is it?
The open character of some of these areas, with their disturbed soils and bare patches, makes them excellent for invertebrates and reptiles. Even the smallest wasteland site can provide a refuge for wildlife within dense residential or industrial parts of London. Wastelands also usually exhibit a fascinating mixture of both native and exotic plants and animals that reflect London’s past and present cultural energies. Depending on the underlying soils, railway linesides support a variety of vegetation. In chalky areas, cutting slopes support wild marjoram, oxeye daisy, clematis, broom and kidney vetch, whilst on heavier clay soils you might see goat’s beard, clumps of cow-parsley or carpets of ivy.

Conservation issues
Wastelands receive little protection and often disappear under new development. This type of habitat is included in the London Biodiversity Action plan, and conservationists are working with developers, planners and landowners to provide guidance on the management of these unique habitats.

Where can I see this habitat?
London Wildlife Trust manages railway nature reserves such as at New Cross Gate Cutting and Sydenham Hill Wood.

London Wildlife Trust reserves on reclaimed land include Camley Street Natural Park and Gunnersbury Triangle.