'Imperial Oasis' is the new name given to two green spaces created at Imperial Road in Haringey, north London. The name - decided by a competition-winning local youngster – represents the transformation of neglected, unused areas into places where residents can truly appreciate being outdoors.

Imperial Road has 40 homes, built in the mid 1990s, which are owned and managed by Places for People. The area is located within the Bounds Green Ward. With anti-social behaviour problems being a key concern for residents, the purpose of this green spaces project was to provide a new focus for community interaction and activity.

Local people were encouraged to get involved with the project and the final design for both spaces has taken into account all the elements they wanted to include. Now fully complete, the larger space includes opportunities for play where young people can take part in sports activities as well as a shelter where residents can socialise and hold meetings. Improved lighting, new railings and lockable gates provide better security while litter bins, seating, paving and planting create a more attractive environment for families to enjoy.

A second smaller space has been redesigned to create a quiet seating area with access for people with mobility problems, a circular lawn with planting and a wild flower meadow where residents can get involved in gardening.

The residents association will continue to be involved in the ongoing management of the spaces and volunteers will take responsibility for maintaining the gardens. Involving residents in both the design and management of the spaces has helped to create a sense of ownership and pride within the community, which will help to guarantee the longevity of these two new facilities.