Robin Hood Millennium Green is in Poplar, London in the centre of the Robin Hood Gardens housing estate.
The Green is in the middle of a housing estate
It is a small 0.75 ha site in a very urban area, surrounded by housing in all directions. The Green is distinctive for its artificial hill, rising many metres up the centre of the site.
Location[]
The estate is surrounded by roads; it is north of Poplar High Street, near the Blackwall Tunnel.
History of the Green[]
This is the promise to reinstate the Green as part of the whole redevelopment of the Estate, which is years behind as of 2022.
The Green was created on the existing green site between the two great blocks of the well-known Robin Hood Garden Estate. The controversial design of the whole estate, considered unpopular with residents. has led to it being condemned for redevelopment. As of 2012, the Trust was in a long battle with the local authority over the future of the Green. When consulted, Natural England said that the Green could be removed and would not need to be replaced.
As of 2022, one of the blocks has been demolished, but the green, with its hill and mosaic features is still there. The developer has apparently committed to refurbishing the Green, but is currently years behind.
Millennium Feature[]
The Robin Hood Sundial Mosaic
This sundial mosaic in the shape of a bow and arrow, where the viewer is the gnomon was installed during the Creation of the Green at the top of the artificial hill. The mosaic was designed by David Bratby. Alas, as of 2022, the mosaic is almost completely destroyed.
Other Features[]
This mosaic sculpture, installed at the Creation in 2000, is still in good condition as of 2022.
This mosaic monster is somewhat obscured by the shrubs that have grown up, but is still, as of 2022, in good condition.
The hill features a set of steps and a spiraling Accessible pathway winding up to the top.
There is a large wooden pergola, which as of 2022 is almost totally covered with ivy. Somewhat hidden on the ground are two mosaic sculptures- a fish and a pink mosaic Loch Ness Monster.
One of a number of mature trees on the Green, which provide welcome shade and shelter for wildlife.
Nature & Wildlife[]
The site has developed over time with dozens of mature trees and areas of heavy ivy and undergrowth. It includes dozens of mature wild cherries; some oak, willow and horse chestnut trees. Shrubs include Mahonia and Buddleja along with Pyracantha and lots of ivy.
Amenities[]
The Green is right near a petrol station and a full parade of shops.