London’s largest Beaver enclosure could be coming to South London soon as part of a rewilding plan for South Norwood Country Park.
Croydon Council’s proposal would introduce a family of beavers to the park to help restore wildlife habitats, improve water quality, and create a healthier natural environment.
The council is working with Citizen Zoo, specialists in urban rewilding, who are assessing the site’s potential. Citizen Zoo also helped deliver London’s first openly accessible urban beaver project in Ealing, giving them first-hand experience of how the animals can thrive in a city setting.
If the project moves forward, further funding will be required, and licences must be approved by Natural England.
Often described as “ecosystem engineers”, beavers reshape their surroundings by building dams and wetlands. These changes can slow water flow, reduce flood risk, improve water quality and create richer habitats for fish, insects, birds and other mammals.
Under the plans, the beavers would live within a secure enclosure — expected to be the largest of its kind in London — but one that remains fully accessible to the public, and a visitor centre would also be built next to the enclosure.
Beavers were once widespread across Britain, including London, before being hunted to extinction centuries ago for their fur and meat. While their habit of felling trees can raise concerns, it also plays an important role in creating healthier wetlands. By opening up small gaps in the canopy, more light reaches the ground, encouraging a wider mix of plants and supporting greater biodiversity.
In an urban park, this activity can be carefully managed: key trees can be protected, beaver behaviour can be guided to appropriate areas, and the overall impact can be balanced to support a more diverse and resilient ecosystem.
The plans will be subject to final consultations starting next month and funding being secured.
South Norwood Country Park is next to Birkbeck (Southern) and Elmers End (Southeastern) stations, both also served by Croydon’s trams.