Knight Frank believes a major rewilding project on the edge of London could mark a new chapter in how private capital supports environmental restoration in and around cities.
The Enfield Chase Landscape Recovery Scheme, led by Enfield Council, will see 1,500 hectares of land within the M25 transformed into a network of woodlands, wetlands and grasslands. One of the largest rewilding projects ever undertaken near a major city, it is being recognised by Knight Frank as a model for urban nature recovery that delivers lasting environmental and social value, with the firm’s Rural Consultancy advising on opportunities for private organisations and individuals to invest in its long-term delivery.
More than 750 hectares of new woodland and pasture will be created, 23 kilometres of rivers will be re-naturalised and 40 hectares of ponds and wetlands established. Once complete, the landscape will provide habitats for wildlife, improve flood resilience and attract around one million visitors a year to an area that was once a royal hunting forest.
James Shepherd, Partner at Knight Frank, said: “Enfield Chase demonstrates how environmental investment is evolving. By co-funding the project, partners can contribute to a transformative initiative that delivers tangible benefits for nature and people. These include visible climate and biodiversity action, access to data-driven insights on ecological improvements and alignment with ESG goals.
“What makes this project distinctive is its setting – a large-scale rewilding initiative within the boundaries of a global city. It shows how nature recovery and urban life can coexist, creating accessible green space and long-term resilience for London’s communities.
“This is a chance to help shape a pioneering model for urban nature recovery that also supports community wellbeing, education and green job creation. As it progresses, it will undoubtedly become an international exemplar for urban rewilding to the UK’s capital and its population.”
The Leader of Enfield Council, Cllr Ergin Erbil, said: “Enfield Chase represents the best of what we can achieve when ambition for our environment meets collaboration and innovation. This project is transforming thousands of hectares of land into thriving woodlands, wetlands and grasslands, creating a living legacy for future generations.
“We want Enfield to be at the forefront of a greener, more resilient London. By working with partners and investors who share our vision, we are opening the door to new opportunities, from green jobs and education to sustainable tourism and biodiversity gains.”
While the project’s development phase has received funding from Defra, delivery, estimated at up to £68 million over the next 20 years, will depend on new forms of private finance. Enfield Borough is offering organisations, individuals and investors the opportunity to share in the benefits of the initiative through partnership opportunities supported by Knight Frank.
Partners including The Rivers Trust, Thames 21 and the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust will monitor and evaluate habitat creation, carbon sequestration, water quality and biodiversity improvements. This transparent, data-led approach will demonstrate progress over time and help partners evidence their contribution to environmental and social goals.
Mark Topliff, Associate at Knight Frank, added: “Partnerships like Enfield Chase represent the future of nature recovery because they unite public ambition with private innovation and investment. They enable larger-scale, longer-term environmental gains and ensure accountability through shared objectives and transparent reporting.
“We are excited to be taking part in this pioneering project that will transform a large part of North London and look forward to working with others who share the same ambition for the environment and the local community.”
Knight Frank’s Rural Consultancy advises landowners, investors and public bodies on structuring, measuring and delivering environmental investments across the UK.
Organisations or individuals interested in partnership opportunities should contact James Shepherd (james.shepherd@knightfrank.com) or Mark Topliff (mark.topliff@knightfrank.com).