Rickmansworth, Moor Park and Eastbury

Ebury play area (Rickmansworth Aquadrome)
CURRENTLY CLOSED FOR REFURBISHMENT

The anticipated reopening of the Ebury Play Area has been delayed following the unexpected discovery of Japanese knotweed. Japanese knotweed is an invasive non-native species to the UK; in this instance it means that the plant was transported from its native range (East Asia) to a new region (the UK) by humans and now has a negative impact on the environment. It was introduced as an ornamental plant in the 1850’s, it now poses a great issue as it disrupts the natural ecosystem and can cause significant damage.

As the majority of Japanese knotweed plants in the UK are female, this means that it rarely spreads by seed; and instead spreads through rhizomes. Rhizomes are special stems that grow underground and allow the plant to store nutrients and also reproduce by making clones of themselves. Therefore, from each small piece of rhizome a new plant can grow.

While it is not illegal to have Japanese knotweed present, it is illegal to allow it to spread. Therefore, the treatment of this species must be carefully considered and is controlled through legislation, including the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. It is also a controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 which means it can only be transported by a registered waste carrier to suitably permitted or exempt sites.

For more information on Japanese knotweed and how to stop it from spreading please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prevent-japanese-knotweed-from-spreading

Located within the striking open space of the Aquadrome in Rickmansworth, this play area with modern and traditional play equipment aimed at children of all ages and abilities is yours to discover.

Play area information

Address: Riverside Drive, Rickmansworth

This play area is managed by Three Rivers District Council, who can be contacted on 01923 776611. There are also additional features and facilities nearby such as:

• Bench
• Picnic Table
• Outdoor Gym
• Lakes
• Cafe
• Green open spaces.