Lesnes Abbey Woods is set to become the home to the very first pond on a new chain of 100 ponds being installed across southeast London.

The new London Blue Chain, created by Froglife, will feature 100 new ponds along the existing 52-mile London Green Chain walking route.  

Sheila Gundry, Operations Manager, Froglife, said:

Staff at Lesnes Abbey Woods have been crucial in helping Froglife to gain substantial funds from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to create a new ‘blue chain’ of 100 ponds across south-east London. These ponds will support amphibians and other wildlife along the London Green Chain, whilst at the same time working closely with local communities in Bexley and beyond. This will make a massive difference for wildlife and, through a novel range of activities, support new skills, knowledge and mental and physical health, as well as creating 9 new jobs. Thank you so much to Lesnes Abbey staff – we look forward to digging our first pond in Lesnes Abbey Woods.” 

Froglife was successful in its bid for funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (£573,078) to create a series of ponds to restore and connect freshwater habitats and support the sustained growth of amphibian and reptile populations.

People featured in image (from left to right): Emily Millhouse (project partner - Lewisham parks), Lindsey Weaver (Lesnes Abbey), Xavier Mahele (Froglife Trustee), Harry Forshaw (new London Blue Chain Project Manager), Kate Bradbury (Froglife Patron), Ian Holt (Lesnes Abbey), Sheila Gundry (Froglife Operations Manager) at Lesnes Abbey Woods. © Oliver Dixon