What is Rush Common?
Formed in 2024, this group focuses on the community spaces of Rush Common as described by our local council: the Brixton Orchard, Rush Common woodland trail, Pencil Park and Roupell Park.
Together, these public parks form a green corridor running from Brixton to Streatham. In a built-up area where many residents live in flats, they are highly valued as places for the community to meet and socialise, play, exercise and spend time in nature.
They are a vital barrier between our homes and one of the most polluted roads in Europe. And they are a lifeline for nature, providing much-needed urban habitats for birds, bees and other wildlife.
Who we are
The Rush Common Improvement Group is an independent group of residents who are working to enhance our local green spaces on Brixton Hill. We will do this by fundraising and helping to co-ordinate local volunteering activities.
Our volunteer committee aim to meet every quarter to agree our priorities for the season, with an AGM in the spring. Our named officers are Emma Perfect (chair), Lis Stewart (secretary) and Rosy Emodi (treasurer), but many other members of the community are kindly contributing their time to the project.
If you would like to learn more about what we’re up to, you can follow our Facebook page or sign up to receive our newsletter. We’d also love to hear from you if you’re interested in getting involved, or have ideas to share with us.
History
As we focus on the future of Rush Common, it’s important to remember its fascinating history. Originally common land in the Manor of Lambeth, the area was threatened as Central London development spread outward. In 1806, Parliament protected it by passing the Rush Common Act, which set out that nothing should be built “above the Surface of the Earth” within certain boundaries. The Friends of Rush Common Group and the Survey of London have more details on this.
In recent years, community groups have worked together informally and with the council to improve the green spaces. For example, the St Matthew’s residents association do weeding and litter-picking in the Rush Common woodland trail, while neighbours on Endymion Road built a community play area and seating at the end of their street, which is now known as Pencil Park.
After the council removed much of the play equipment due to safety concerns, the Rush Common Improvement Group was formed to fundraise for alternatives. The group adopted a constitution that promised: “To help ensure the Lambeth park and green space known as Rush Common is a well-maintained and safe public site which can enhance the quality of life for local people.”