This project redevelops Edmonton EcoPark to generate low-carbon electricity from waste, expand north London's recycling, and increase public knowledge in waste management.

EcoPark South delivers critical waste infrastructure for north London while pioneering industrial architecture as a tool for civic engagement and environmental education. Commissioned by the North London Waste Authority, this landmark project serves seven boroughs and over two million households, addressing urgent capacity needs whilst fundamentally changing how communities understand and engage with urban waste systems as part of a transition to a circular economy.

The Resource Recovery Facility (RRF) combines a Recycling and Fuel Preparation Facility (RFPF) with a public Reuse and Recycling Centre (RRC). The RFPF processes 135,000 tonnes annually of commercial, municipal and fly-tipped waste; its sawtooth roof accommodates 2,235 south-facing photovoltaic panels generating around 900,000 kWh annually. The RRC provides a sheltered, accessible public recycling facility for 27 types of materials with direct visual connections to the operational site. Construction is deliberately durable and adaptable, with a steel frame, modular cladding, and reconfigurable waste-bay walls designed to evolve with future recycling technologies over the building’s 60-year life.

EcoPark House (EPH) provides visitor education focused on sustainability awareness and houses the Edmonton Sea Cadets with direct canal access. Inspired by traditional boathouses and constructed with natural materials, EPH operates entirely off-grid via photovoltaics and groundsource heat pumps. The project reinforces the green and blue infrastructure of the Lee Valley Regional Park through landscaped buffers, habitat creation, and flood mitigation areas.

Since opening, the RRC has welcomed over 50,000 visitors and EPH more than 1,000, with educational programmes receiving Council for Learning Outside the Classroom accreditation. EcoPark South proves essential infrastructure can be both operationally excellent and educationally transformative.