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Regents Park treehouses
New leaf: the treehouses, above, are surrounded by structures on the ground

Treehouses in the park give a summer of free eco-friendly activity

Emma Rowley
11 Aug 2009


A corner of Regent's Park has been taken over by giant treehouses this summer.

Young and old are able to explore the treetops, listen to storytellers and take part in traditional crafts in the park's free project.

The two treehouses north of the boating lake are built from reclaimed city rubbish and naturally sourced materials.

The spherical reading gallery holds a library of books bound in bark, while the futuristic-looking glass bulb is designed to host discussions and workshops. And there are more structures on the ground, including a hanging garden of medicinal plants.

More than 60 free events are planned around the treehouses in the coming weeks. Children and adults can take part in drama workshops based on folk tales, make traditional craft from recycled items, or join in painting leaves.

Books gallery in the treehouse
Books gallery in the treehouse
Sarah Mooney, resident storyteller at the Roald Dahl Story Centre in Buckinghamshire, will tell forest fables, and poet and eco-activist Mario Petrucci will be among those giving talks.

The treehouse gallery is the brainchild of Londoners Claudia Moseley and Steph Smith, who have curated exhibitions and protested to protect woodland. They took their idea to the Royal Parks, and worked with volunteers to build the treehouses. The project runs until 6 September. For details visit www.royalparks.org.uk

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Perhaps this is a pilot scheme - Camden's way of trying to solve the housing crisis? Personally, I would rather live in a treehouse than some of their flats, although it may get cold in the winter!

- Real, London, 11/08/2009 16:43
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I hope health and safety were consulted about this, someone could get a nasty splinter.

- Bob, Cheam, 11/08/2009 14:42
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