Hillingdon Council is using £1.3 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) to improve leisure facilities, public spaces, and volunteer opportunities in the borough.
In Ruislip, children’s play areas at Ruislip Lido have been upgraded with modern equipment, including accessible options. Similar work at Shenley Park in Ruislip Manor is scheduled to be completed by March 2025. New wildflower meadows have also been planted, and over 700 young trees have been added as part of the enhancements to green spaces.
Across the borough, other improvements include upgraded play areas in Cranford Park, Stockley Recreation Ground, and Fassnidge Park. Hayes is seeing plans to improve the area around Hayes Station, while West Drayton will benefit from a rooftop astroturf football pitch at the new Platinum Jubilee Leisure Centre.
Volunteer opportunities have also been supported by the funding, including the Woodlarks and Waders group, which helps maintain Highgrove Woods in Eastcote and nearby waterways. Jess Lee, from the group, 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.”
Further information is available at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ukspf.
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