Shape the Future of Hounslow Heath

We are developing a masterplan for Hounslow Heath and want your input. Tell us what you think about access, recreation, conservation, and more.

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 Wildlife Trust have been conducting field surveys to map species, and a 10-year habitat management plan will be shared online.

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.

Now, we need your input to shape the overall vision.

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

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

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
• Rationalising cycle route provision and providing new green links
• Re-establishing a wetland area
• Making Hounslow Heath a nationally important donor site for Adders

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?

Now the preliminary stages are complete, initial drafts have been shared as Vision Boards, which you can find here. We recommend that you read though the vision boards before starting the survey.

The survey will be live for 6 weeks and should take approximately 10 minutes to complete.

There are several ways to take part:

• Complete the online survey

• Engagement Events (dates to be confirmed)

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