Ealing Council’s plan to create a regional park has moved a step closer, thanks to a new partnership formed across west London to help the project become a reality.
The council has linked up with a number of organisations to progress the project, which covers more than 500 hectares of parkland and waterways (equivalent to the size of 2,500 football pitches) and stretches through the boroughs of Ealing and Hounslow.
Stretching from Horsenden Hill in Greenford through Osterley Park to the River Thames in Brentford, the future West London Regional Park would create new connections between existing parks, cultural landmarks and waterways. It builds on work by Ealing Council that is already under way to connect its green spaces into a wider regional park.
‘Truly transformative’
Council leader Peter Mason said: “What began as a simple but powerful idea by Ealing Council to connect our green spaces into a regional park for our residents has grown into something far larger than any one borough. By joining forces with our neighbours and partners, we now have a shared ambition to create a truly transformative West London Regional Park for millions to enjoy.”
Partners include Hounslow Council, the Mayor of London, the National Trust, the Environment Agency and the Canal & River Trust. The groups met on Monday (2 March) for a formal signing event at the National Trust’s Osterley House, marking the next phase of what could become one of London’s largest new green spaces.
What could the park include?
The initiative is backed by almost £2.5million in funding to date, including £1.5million from the Mayor of London and close to £1million from Nature Towns and Cities, which is helping to shape the early design and community focused development work.
Plans for the park could include:
- an extended 13-kilometre walking and cycling trail linking parks, waterways, art and landmarks from Horsenden Hill in Greenford to the Thames in Brentford
- new sports and wellbeing spaces
- improved access and signage
- enhanced wildlife habitats
- outdoor venues for cultural events.
After the event, Mete Coban MBE, deputy mayor of London for environment and energy, added: “Access to thriving and nature rich blue and green spaces across London is an issue of social justice, and I’m determined to bring more Londoners within reach of the benefits these spaces provide. That’s why I’m delighted to be a part of the West London Regional Park Partnership and help deliver this vision which puts communities at the heart of a new regional park for all Londoners to enjoy.”
At the event, the Environment Agency highlighted the River Brent’s importance to the park and how restoring its natural functions will be vital for reducing flood risk, tackling climate change and aiding species recovery.
What’s next?
The partnership will now look at all of the existing sites, identify opportunities for nature, and work closely with local people, businesses and community groups to shape the park’s priorities. If you would like to get involved, or find out more, visit the West London Regional Park website.
