2.  To provide two new buffer zones, one to protect the water course catchment on the east side of the site (within the grey hashed area), and one between the proposed LNR extension on the north-west side of the site (within the green hashed area) and the projected housing developments.

In particular, the watercourse running along the edge of the current LNR should be protected by a 10m buffer zone wherever possible from the proposed new development of tower blocks. The proposed LNR extension should be protected by a buffer zone of 5m from the Transport Yard development on the north-west side of the site. 

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3.  To develop a new site specific management plan for the whole of Grove Farm, including the extended LNR and buffer zones.

This would fulfil action POS7 of the BAP 2022. The management plan to provide a clear, current work programme for contractors and volunteers, including conservation management activities and ensuring that paths are mown and kept clear of obstructions, any fly-tipping and litter is cleared, graffiti removed, vehicle gates are kept locked, anti-social behaviour deterred, and boundaries and fences maintained in good repair.

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4.  To ensure and maintain responsible public access within and across the extended LNR

This would be ensured by  the creation of a network of accessible footpaths and entrances, including gates which deter fly-tipping, and clear signposting to facilitate community usage.

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5.  To recognise the importance of green corridors for wildlife which connect Grove Farm to nearby open land and extend the existing corridors to include Whitton Avenue West and connections to the Piccadilly line. 

Green corridors are a planning designation which recognise the importance for wildlife of green linkages between open spaces. Currently there is a gap in the recognised connectivity between the Piccadilly Line, Grove Farm and Horsenden Hill. This aligns with action WD4 of BAP 2022.

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 6.  To increase engagement with the local community by working with Friends of Grove Farm to: 

a.   empower the community and local volunteers to participate in conservation management and biodiversity monitoring of this Local Nature Reserve;

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b.  introduce and maintain appropriate information boards and signage for visitors;

c.  engage with local schools and youth groups to raise awareness of  biodiversity and nature, using Grove Farm as an outdoor classroom;

d.  engage with local residents to promote awareness of nature and the benefits of connecting to nature in Grove Farm.

Local Nature Reserves are places to play, learn and explore nature that can also deliver significant physical and mental health benefits, thus it is crucial to engage and empower the local community. Friends of Grove Farm are already working to meet the objectives above with the help of the Park Rangers but could be aided by further support and training from Ealing Council, for example with training for governance, health and safety, to run citizen science initiatives and provision of insurance to cover their activities. This aligns with actions POS4, 6, 7, 8, 18, 19, 21, WW16, 17, WD7. 

 

  7.  To commit to consult and work in full partnership with Friends of Grove Farm and the local community.

Building on our collaboration with Ealing Park Rangers, we ask the Council to ensure that the local community is fully consulted by all departments of the Council in an inclusive and transparent way on matters that affect the LNR and the surrounding area . 

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Friends of Grove Farm offer our support to Ealing Council to achieve this Vision. We stand ready to work in partnership with Ealing Council and all others who commit to it.