Listen closely as we explore Mayesbrook Park. This public park spans 43 hectares in Dagenham. It is within the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.
Mayesbrook Park is owned and managed by the borough council. Its southern end features a large lake. This lake is a designated Local Nature Reserve.
The park’s land was once part of the historic Manor of Jenkins. This was the seat of the Fanshawe family. Interestingly the park is nicknamed “Matchstick Island” for reasons unknown.
Mayesbrook Park opened in 1934. It was created to provide open space. This addressed the needs of the London County Council’s Becontree Housing Estate.
The park offers many amenities. There is a car park and a children’s play area. Football pitches, a cricket pitch, and a pavilion are available. An athletic track, tennis courts and a basketball court are present. Visitors can also enjoy the lakes.
Mayesbrook Park uses green infrastructure engineering. This addresses flood water management needs effectively. The southern end boasts two large lakes. They are rich in wildlife with newly planted woodland and rough grassland.
The Mayes Brook flows along the western edge. It is a tributary of the River Roding. Access to the park is available from Lodge Avenue.
Since 2002, Mayesbrook has also been a ward. It is part of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham. The ward’s population was 10342 in 2011. The boundaries were revised in 2022.
Mayesbrook Park has two lakes at its southern end. The North Lake is larger with an island. Both lakes are man-made. They resulted from gravel extraction for nearby house building.
The Mayes Brook flows through the park. It was once a natural stream. In the 1970s it was forced into a concrete channel. This was a misguided attempt at flood control. Recent work has removed the concrete. A natural-looking stream and mini-floodplain now exist. It looks much better than concrete.
Mayesbrook Park provides green space. It supports wildlife and manages flood water. It is a valuable resource for the community.