Shape the Future of Hounslow Heath

We are developing a masterplan for Hounslow Heath and want your input.

This consultation will help shape the future of this important green space. Tell us what you think about access, recreation, conservation, and more. Your feedback will directly influence the final plan.

Hounslow Heath is the only statutory Local Nature Reserve in the borough, designated in 1991. It is also classified as a Site of Metropolitan Importance and part of the Metropolitan Green Belt. Covering 82 hectares, the site features a rare lowland heathland mosaic, acid grassland, scrub, broad-leaved woodland, and neutral grassland, supporting diverse wildlife.

The London Borough of Hounslow is committed to protecting and enhancing this unique environment. In partnership with a team of landscape architects and consultants, we are developing a masterplan to guide the future of the Heath. The Lampton Greenspace Countryside team look after this space.

The heath area covers about 5 hectares and represents about 5% of London’s heathland. Both heathland and acid grassland are nationally important habitats and globally the UK holds one fifth of the world’s lowland heathland.

Hounslow Heath provides an important green buffer and high value landscape in an area of Hounslow that is heavily built and has significant areas covered with grey infrastructure.

Please note the area titled as Hounslow Heath Open Space is part of London Borough of Richmond and is not included in this Masterplan.

This plan aligns with the Council’s six priority ambitions, particularly in creating a greener Hounslow and improving residents’ well-being. The masterplan will address key areas such as:

• Access and movement around the site

• Signage and street furniture

• Formal and informal recreation

• Existing buildings and visitor facilities

• Parking provision

• Nature recovery and conservation

• Links to wider initiatives like the Crane Valley Trail

The London Wildlife Trust have been conducting field surveys to map species, and a 10-year habitat management plan will be shared online. Now, we need your input to shape the overall vision.

Why are we asking?

We are seeking feedback from residents and stakeholders to ensure that the masterplan reflects the needs and aspirations of the community. Your input will help:

• Improve visitor experience and facilities

• Enhance biodiversity and conservation efforts

• Increase accessibility and connectivity

• Develop recreation and educational opportunities

By participating, you have the chance to influence decisions that will shape the future of Hounslow Heath.

What options were available?

We have considered various approaches to the masterplan, including:

1. Minimal intervention – Focusing only on essential maintenance and conservation.

2. Moderate enhancements – Improving access, signage, and visitor facilities while maintaining ecological balance.

3. Transformative approach – Significant improvements, including new trails, rewilding projects, and increased visitor amenities.

Some opportunities recognised:

• Becoming a key destination space for nature based recreational activities and environmental education and training
• Elevate designation status to SSI or National Nature Reserve
• Species reintroductions
• Enhancements for residents’ mental and physical wellbeing
• Rationalizing cycle route provision and providing new green links
• Re-establishing a wetland area
• Making Hounslow Heath a nationally important donor site for Adders.

Your feedback will help determine the best way forward.

Who do we want to get involved?

We want to hear from:

• Local residents and community groups

• Nature and conservation enthusiasts

• Schools and educational institutions

• Recreational users (walkers, cyclists, etc.)

• Local businesses

• Stakeholder organisations (e.g., London Wildlife Trust, Crane Valley Partnership, FORCE, Zoological Society of London, MET, Lampton Greenspace, and relevant LBH departments)

Your views are essential in shaping a masterplan that works for everyone.

How can you get involved?

Once the preliminary stages are complete, initial drafts will be shared and a consultation will be taking place.

There are several ways to take part in this consultation:

• Complete the online survey (link to survey)

• Attend public meetings or workshops (dates and locations to be confirmed)

• Visit local libraries to access paper copies of the survey

For paper copies, large print, Easy Read versions, or translations, please email engage@hounslow.gov.uk or call 020 8583 2000.