Hammersmith flood defence work is underway in West London, where two new rain gardens have just been installed on Hammersmith Grove to soak up rainwater and reduce flood risk to nearby homes and shops. The north side of the road should fully reopen by Thursday 10 September, offering a practical glimpse of the kind of flood prevention measures that could reach streets closer to the Thames in Richmond if similar schemes are rolled out borough-wide.
What is happening in Hammersmith
Two rain gardens have been created on Hammersmith Grove.
The London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham confirmed on 4 September that the new gardens form part of wider efforts to make the street greener, safer and more resilient to heavy rainfall. The north side of Hammersmith Grove is expected to reopen fully by Thursday 10 September following the installation work. Rain gardens work by allowing rainwater to collect in planted beds rather than running straight into drains, reducing the risk of surface flooding during storms.
The scheme is part of a wider pattern of flood prevention measures being trialled across west London boroughs.
Rain gardens are essentially planted beds designed to capture and absorb storm water before it overwhelms drains or floods properties, a straightforward concept that sounds more technical than it actually is.
Frequently asked questions
What is a rain garden?
- A rain garden is a planted bed designed to capture and absorb rainwater from roads and pavements. The soil and plants soak up water that would otherwise run into drains or cause surface flooding, reducing pressure on the drainage system during heavy rainfall.
Could rain gardens be installed in Richmond?
- Rain gardens could be considered as part of flood prevention work in Richmond, particularly in areas near the Thames or in streets prone to surface water flooding. Any installation would require planning and consultation by Richmond Council, and would depend on local drainage needs and available space.
When will Hammersmith Grove fully reopen?
- The north side of Hammersmith Grove is scheduled to reopen fully by Thursday 10 September 2026, once the rain garden installation work is complete.
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