The City of London’s commitment to open spaces
dates back to the 1870s when, in response to the rapid
disappearance of many public open areas to make way for the
building of new suburban homes and city offices, it embarked on an
ambitious project to safeguard some of what remained.
As a result two Acts of Parliament were passed
in 1878 that granted the City of London the right to acquire
and protect both Epping Forest and land within 25 miles of the City
for the recreation and enjoyment of the public. This far-sighted
policy was the inspiration behind the later Green Belt movement,
designed to protect the countryside around other British cities
from urban sprawl.
Today, within the Square
Mile there are some 150 small parks and gardens, green
oases in the middle of the world’s leading international
financial and business centre.
The City of London’s green fingers extend far
beyond the Square Mile too. It owns and manages some of Londoners’
favourite leisure spots - such as Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood
and Epping Forest.
Further afield, Burnham Beeches and
a crescent of commons in the South Croydon and Bromley area all
enjoy the same expert care and protection, benefiting humans and
wildlife alike.