Chase Farm to West Lodge Park May 22, 2026

Further information on dashboard evaluation framework can be found on the “Methods” page

This area is an environment of diverse bird life

Signage: There is some useful signage along the path that provides historical context and environmental intentions. The path and options are clearly signposted with distances on the signs.  There are no dedicated path markers for wilder natural walking paths that branch off from the main gravel path. There are TPOs on the Enfield Council’s map and commitments in plans to protect Ancient Coppices, yet there is no visible signage indicating which of these trees are protected. There are no signs advising walkers not to trespass in areas where new trees are being grown.  No signage is offered to enable a walker to report anything. There is one sign asking the observer to water a small, wilting tree, which is unclear but appears to be an attempt at some campaign.

Signage explaining history of Enfield Chase

Path signage found on way to West Lodge Park

Accessibility: The path has recently been resurfaced and is easy to walk on with a width wide enough for two people. No mud observed. The path could be suitable for mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and walkers of varying abilities, with benches available at three locations. There are no assistive devices for sensory disabilities, and signs are not translated from English into other languages. The signs assume literacy, and no audio is available. A dedicated crossing on the Ridgeway offers an island to cross the busy road.  

Newly resurfaced pathway

Debris, Fallen Trees & Litter: Several fallen trees and significant wood debris are visible, with many blocking important waterways and streams.  Imprints of large industrial vehicle tracks that have passed through the area are visible, marking the stream's natural banksides with unsightly tyre tracks.  Further queries are required to assess the legitimacy of pruning and wood-cutting activity.  Remarkably, only one instance of litter was observed on the path, with no fly-tipping observed on this visit.  No waste or recycling bins available.

Industrial tire marks visible on path

Tree debris visible on path to West Lodge Park

Biodiversity: The signage sets the expectation for the walker that this is a biodiversity area where one might see woodpeckers and beavers. No beavers and no woodpeckers were spotted, nor any evidence of habitat protection to encourage animals in this area.  A regeneration and new trees have been planted to invest in the future of this path. Varied bird life was recorded within mature trees and shrubbery in the area. No damson flies noted. Social weaving moth larvae were noted on shrubs very close to the area of new trees, raising concerns about potential harm to trees. No butterflies or bees observed.  Streams and waterways are blocked in a few areas by dead wood, creating stagnant water sources that are now too filthy for wildlife such as ducks to access or dried up entirely.

Newly planted trees are part of regeneration efforts in the local area

A dried up stream blocked by fallen tree

Graffiti: None observed.

Safety: No walker threats or anti-social behaviour noted.