The Coppermill area has a unique setting in Waltham Forest, connecting Walthamstow town centre in the east to the Lee Valley in the west. The area brings together nature, industry and residential neighbourhoods that formed around key infrastructure: the Chingford Branch railway viaduct; Dagenham Brook and the River Lea flood relief channel. It  includes over 50 streets with different qualities, uses and characters.

In 2018 the Coppermill Area was awarded Livable Neighbourhood Funding supported by the Walthamstow Wetlands feasibility study previously prepared by what if: projects. The Coppermill Lane Design Framework proposes a range of interventions at different scales and levels of complexity, including wayfinding, lighting, greening and cycle infrastructure. 

Coppermill Area masterplan objectives:
+ Introduce qualities of local landscapes to local streets.
+ Improve links and connections between residential streets and the industrial area.
+ Improve walking and cycling accessibility throughout the neighbourhood and in particular to transport hubs, recreational spaces and community and educational facilities.

Design principles for the Coppermill Area schemes:
+ Design language reflects qualities of local nature and landscapes, the Victorian street patterns and the industrial heritage at Lee Valley.
+ Material palette builds on area characteristics and Walthamstow Wetlands identity.
+ Coordinate design with locally established Mini-Holland and borough-wide pedestrian and cycle infrastructure schemes.
+ Foreground local heritage, such as the Black Path and Lee Valley industry.
+ Greening strategy responds to local landscapes and green spaces.
+ Incorporate a range of special moments.

Project types:

A. Key public realm schemes:
Gateway projects
High Street projects
School Entrance projects
Pocket Park projects

B. Cycle and pedestrian infrastructure
C. Community and local schemes
D. Carriageway and footway management schemes

Pocket Park projects: A range of SUDS gardens were proposed throughout the Coppermill Lane area. The implementation involved Meristem and residents.