Hillingdon Council funding boost for communities

In Hayes, the funding is being used to identify improvements to the area around Hayes station, and in West Drayton, as part of the delivery of the new Platinum Jubilee Leisure Centre, a rooftop astroturf football pitch. 

Additionally, children's play areas in Cranford Park, Stockley Recreation Ground, Fassnidge Park and Ruislip Lido have been upgraded, with the latest modern equipment, including accessible play equipment where possible and in Cranford Park, wooden equipment was used to match the woodland setting.  Similar improvements to Shenley Park in Ruislip Manor and Hayes End Community Park, are set for completion by March, 2025. 

To enhance the borough's green spaces, new wildflower meadows have been sowed and the council's tree-planting programme bolstered, with more than 700 young trees planted. The fund has also supported local opportunities for volunteering, including the Woodlarks and Waders group which helps look after Highgrove Woods in Eastcote and nearby waterways, as well as 36 other local volunteer positions.

Jess Lee, of the Woodlarks and Waders says their work gives them a 'tremendous buzz'. She said: "This funding is not just paying for a rake, or a pruning saw or a pair of gloves, it is providing the magic wand that puts a little sparkle into everybody's lives." 

Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth, said: "UKSPF support has enabled the council to accelerate its existing work programme for improvements to public spaces and facilities. 

"The wide range of initiatives delivered during the past year as part of the 'communities and place' element of the funding is helping to ensure our borough remains green, pleasant and a brilliant place to live."

Funding under the UKSPF is being delivered in Hillingdon across several themes: communities and place, capital programmes, supporting local business and people and skills and supplier readiness.

Find out more at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ukspf.