The Clearing, a multi-functional outdoor education space nestled within Lesnes Abbey Woods, has been honoured with a coveted Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) London Award.

Announced at a ceremony on Thursday 14 May, the project was recognised for its profound and positive impact on the local community.

Susie Le Good, London Jury Chair for the RIBA Awards, praised the project:

Though modest in scale, the jury were impressed by the profound impact The Clearing has had – providing an inspiring space."

Since opening in 2024, The Clearing has provided volunteers, children, and families with vital access to natural green space for outdoor recreation, environmental learning and community cohesion.

Councillor Rags Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Environment, Culture & Leisure expressed pride in the achievement: 

We are absolutely thrilled that The Clearing has been recognised with a prestigious RIBA Award. The project’s success is deeply rooted in collaboration, and we are incredibly grateful to our partners and volunteers for their hard work in creating a truly exceptional hub where heritage, sustainability and education come together. 

This accolade highlights our ongoing dedication to investing in high-quality community projects that connect people with nature. The Council and the team at Lesnes Abbey Woods look forward to continuing our support for the vital volunteers and organisations who utilise this fantastic resource.

We encourage anyone who hasn't yet visited to come and experience this unique space for themselves within one of Bexley’s most beautiful historic woodlands."

The Clearing serves as a vibrant hub for local volunteers. Creative Nature HQ, North West Kent Countryside Partnership (NWKCP), Lore of the Wild, and Woodland Whisperers host a diverse range of activities focused on sustainable woodland management and nature conservation. Programmes span from dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) and homeschool sessions to traditional heritage crafts like spoon carving and willow weaving. While Forest Club and Friends of Lesnes Abbey & Woods use the site as its base of operations for its vital woodland conservation work.

Wai-Piu Wong from Wonky Architectural Practice added:

Special thanks to Gransden Construction Ltd, the main contractor, and Stephen Stockbridge of creative nature HQ who did so much to deliver this project including the traditional woodworking and mobilising the community to get involved. 

Finally, and most importantly, a project like The Clearing does not happen without our amazing clients, Lindsey Weaver and Ian Holt at London Borough of Bexley. We were delighted to celebrate the recognition with Ian and Lindsey at the ceremony on Thursday."

Presented annually, the RIBA Awards celebrate buildings and spaces that demonstrate not only technical innovation and design excellence, but a meaningful social or environmental contribution to the communities they serve.