Work is set to be completed this month on the new Northcote Nature Reserve in Isleworth. The reserve runs alongside the River Crane and will be an important habitat for plants and wildlife.
Published: Thursday, 1st September 2022
Plans to create a stunning new nature reserve on an old and long-neglected recreation ground are taking shape.
Construction work which began on the environmental improvements at the Northcote Nature Reserve in February is expected to be completed this month. The nature reserve will however not be fully open to the public until Summer 2023 to ensure that the new habitats and wildlife have a little bit of space to establish.
The idea is to transform the former recreational ground, known locally as the ‘Pit Park’, into a nature reserve and wildlife sanctuary.
The project vision was born from the Friends of Northcote Nature Reserve, who were instrumental in the design and stakeholder engagement on the project. Hounslow Council is now working to create a green oasis on this site for residents and visitors to enjoy.
The reserve is situated off Northcote Avenue in Isleworth and runs alongside the River Crane.
The plans include creating a tidal inlet and riverbank terracing, which will create a more natural environment and attract a greater range of birds and animals.
Hounslow Council’s Cabinet Member for Parking, Parks and Leisure, Councillor Salman Shaheen was part of a group who recently visited the site to hear about its progress.
Cllr Shaheen said:
“The plans for the nature reserve are really beginning to take shape. When completed, it will give the community a green oasis which will help visitors to understand more about the wildlife on our doorstep. This will be a key educational resource for children in London to understand our natural ecosystems.
“This fantastic new space will also be a great place for people to reconnect with nature and improve their mental and physical health and wellbeing, something that has become more vital than ever in light of COVID.”
For more information on parks and open spaces in Hounslow, visit: hounslow.gov.uk/parks
