Field excursions were on Wednesday 3rd September.
Thames Barrier – Technical Tour
The iconic Thames Barrier with its 10 flood gates was open in 1984. For the past 30 years, this engineering marvel has protected London from the looming threat of flooding. This tour allowed participants learn about how the Barrier was built, is maintained and continues to provide flood protection - all while walking through the inner working above and below the River!
The Shard
The Shard is western Europe’s tallest building at 306 metres tall. From the viewing deck on the 70th floor attendees considered ecological connectivity across London. Delegates observed how the River Thames has shaped London and how key routes connect central London to peri-urban and rural environments beyond. Not one for those without a head for heights!
Queen Elizabeth
Olympic Park
The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park has recently opened in Stratford, east London. On a two-hour walking tour, delegates learnt how the park has influenced local ecology by restoring wetland habitats and planting native species since the 2012 Olympic Games.