Willow Tree Open Space
Management Plan
2015 – 2019
Year Two
Green Spaces Team
London Borough of Hillingdon
Green Flag Winner Since 2011
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
1.
Introduction to Willow Tree Open space
During the late 1800’s this site was a mixture of marshland and meadows, with its own dock
area for transportation of goods to and from the Grand Union Canal, including materials from
the adjacent brickworks. By 1900 the site had been excavated for clay, which was used for
brick making, which resulted in larger areas of marshland being created and this remained in
this state until the 1960’s. By the 1970’s the area had been re-profiled and incorporated small
hills and bunds, and the surrounding area was still relatively open. However, from this period to
present day housing estates have been built up around the site and it is now totally
encompassed by housing apart from the Grand Union Canal on the East of the site and Willow
tree Marina to the south.
The site is now part of the London Borough of Hillingdon’s Green spaces and is managed as an
open space.
The park was awarded Green Flag status in 2011 and the previous management plan ran from
2010 - 2014.
Friends, Staff and the Mayor celebrating Green Flag accreditation
2
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
2.
How to use this Plan
This plan provides the aims, objectives, background information, and plans for the management
of Willow Tree Open Space (WT).
Information relating to the site’s key objectives can be found at:
Aim
Objective
Create and maintain a welcoming site
P13
Ensure the site is healthy, safe and secure
p14
Ensure the site is clean and well maintained
p15
Ensure sustainable management of resources
p17
Appropriate management of conservation and
heritage features
p18
Encourage community involvement
p18
Ensure effective marketing of the facility
p19
Implement effective management strategies
P20
3
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
3.
Table of Contents
page
1.
Introduction to Willow Tree Open Space
2
2.
How to Use This Plan
3
3.
Table of Contents
4
4.
Site Summary
5
Map 1 – Aerial photograph of Willow Tree Open Space
7
Map 2 – Site boundary
8
Map 3 – Existing Site Features
9
History
10
Topography and soils
12
Map 4 – Geological Map
12
5
Vision for Willowtree Open Space
13
6
Site Aims and Objectives
13
7
Management Actions and Maintenance Plan
21
7.1
5 Year Plan
21
7.2
Individual Project Plans
23
7.3
Regular Maintenance Plan
30
8
.
Ecology
31
Appendices
37
Appendix A – Introduction to the London Borough of Hillingdon
38
Appendix B – Ecology Annual works programme
40
Appendix C – Site Grounds Maintenance Plan
41
Appendix D – Site Marketing Analysis and Plan
43
Appendix E – Historical Maps
45
Appendix F – Species Lists
51
Appendix G – Commitment to Green Flags
54
Appendix H – Tree Survey
55
4
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
4.
Site Summary
Details
Site Name
Willow Tree Open Space
Address (Main Entrance)
Glencoe Road
Postcode
UB4 9BH
Grid Reference
NGR TQ 122 814
Ownership
London Borough of Hillingdon
Name of Lead Officer
Alison Shipley/Neil O'Connor
Lead Officer’s contact detail
Postal:
Phone:
Fax:
Email:
Green Spaces Team
Civic Centre 4W/08
High St, Uxbridge
Middlesex, UB8 1UW
01895 250 647
01895 250 646
[email protected]
no'[email protected]
Date site acquired
Access points
Access – Public Transport
Key habitats
Size
Main Entrance:
Via Ditchfield Road
Other Entrances:
Via various footpaths from: Fitzpatrick Way,
Glenorchy Close, Marsworth close, Telford
Way, Strone Way, Broadmead Road.
Via Public footpath off of Glencoe Road.
Buses – E6
Trains – Hayes
Amenity grass
Tussocky Grassland
Bramble/scrub
Secondary woodlands
149272m2
5
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
4.1. Site Description:
This site is a relatively flat area of
grassland, which is segmented by sections
of secondary mixed woodland, which was
planted when the site was designed as a
park.
There
are
several
small
embankments on the site, which surround
the playing field area. These are covered
with a mixture of trees and longer grass.
Along the eastern edge of the site is the
Grand union canal and there is a small
section of mooring for the canal boats.
The majority of the site is managed as
amenity grass and in the central area
football pitches can be found and also a small basketball court.
Situated in the Northeast region of this site
is an area of wet meadow, which is
managed as a wildflower meadow and is
cut and cleared annually. Here various
plant species common of wet meadow can
be found including Fritillaria meleagris.
Although this is a solitary plant an
extensive colony has established here,
which is indicative of unploughed damp
meadows.
There is a network of tarmac paths, which
cross the site and includes a section of the
Hillingdon Trail.
6
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Map 1
Aerial Photograph of Willow Tree Open space
7
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Map 2 – Site boundary
8
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Map 3 – Existing site features
9
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
4.1.1 History:
Originally this site would have been damp meadows and grazing land. However, due to the
underlying clay, was a brickworks site for many years. There was a dock area in the southern
end of the site, which lead from the canal to the willow tree pub and also a dock just outside the
site boundary to the north. In later years these have been filled in and the site was used as a
land fill site. Maps indicate that there were buildings onsite near the canal, but these were
demolished sometime after 1949.
The site has changed considerably over time although has remained as relatively open
grassland for the last 30years with a pond in the southern half of the site.
4.1.2 Access
Willow Tree Open Space is situated in an area surrounded by residential areas and the
Greenford branch of the Grand Union Canal.
There are 11 entrances to Willowtree Open Space (see map page 7), the main ones are:
 Broadmead Road
 Ditchfield Road
 Marsworth Road
 Kilpatrick Way
 From canal bridge
4.1.3 Recreational Facilities
Willowtree Open Space has:
 Multi goals x2
 Children’s playground (Installed 2008)
 Extensive footpath path network
 3 senior football pitches
 1 junior football pitches
 1 soccer 7’s pitch
 1 cricket table
 1 artificial cricket strip/wicket
Willowtree Pond
 Access to canal for course fishing
 Wildlife pond area
 Several bins and benches are dotted along the paths length
4.1.4 Present Use
The site is used for formal sports fixtures, informal sports and passive recreation. The footpaths
provide a convenient and pleasant cut-through for pedestrians.
Changing facilities for football and cricket are provided by Yeading Community Centre situated
in Ditchfield Road.
10
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
4.1.5 Management Arrangements:
The Park is managed by the London Borough of Hillingdon’s Green Spaces Team (see
Appendix A for Green Spaces Structure).
Grounds Maintenance is carried out by Green Spaces Ground Maintenance Team, with work
carried out according to the terms described in Appendix B. The outsourced works carried out
within the site are inspected by the Borough’s Green Space Area Officer (part of the Green
Spaces Team – see Appendix A). Enhancement works/projects at the site are led by the
Borough’s Green Space Area Officer for the area with assistance from members of the public,
contractors, other members of the Green Spaces Team, and other groups as appropriate.
4.1.6 Community Contacts:
Several local groups are associated with Willowtree Open Space:
Friends of Willow Tree Pond
Contact:
Leslie Harris
Bovis Residents Association Group
Contact: Ivan McDermot
Yeading Community Centre
Contact Claire and Brian
Football Teams:
Hillingdon Abbots FC 4 teams
Glencoe united 2 teams
Hayes End Wanders 2 teams
Partisan FC 2 teams
Yeading ABS
11
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
4.1.7 Topography
The original topography of the site is sloping up towards the east, however is relatively flat on
the western side of the site.
4.1.8 Soils
The underlying geology of the park is London clay, which locally has a depth of 50m.
Map 4 – Geological Map
12
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
5
Vision for Willow Tree Open Space
Our vision for Willowtree Open Space is to promote the site as a facility for passive and active
recreation.
Willow Tree Open Space is an attractive and well-used green space in this part of the borough.
We seek to enhance the visual amenity and infrastructure of the park in ways that are appealing
to the public and ensure the site is accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities, so
that it reaches its full potential as a community recreation amenity and green space.
A number of key projects are planned to continue the programme of continual site
improvements. For more details see 7.1 Five-Year Plan and 7.2 Individual Project Plans. Pg 21
LBH is committed to achieving Green Flag status for many of its sites (see p55)
6
Site Aims and Objectives
Main Aims
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Create and maintain a welcoming site
Ensure the site is healthy, safe and secure
Ensure the site is clean and well maintained
Ensure sustainable management of resources
Appropriate management of conservation and heritage features
Encourage community involvement
Ensure effective marketing of the facility
Implement effective management strategies
How these aims are being met & Future objectives
6.1
Create and maintain a welcoming site
There are several entrances to the site, with the main entrance situated on Ditchfield Road.
In order to be welcoming, the open space must cater for a wide range of peoples’ needs. The
large areas of grass parkland provide an area for picnics or other activities, whilst the
surrounding footpath improves accessibility. The various activities associated with the site,
including the children’s playground are attractive to the community. There are also a variety of
different habitats which provide interest. The park furniture also fulfils an essential role in
making the space welcoming.
Objectives
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Secure and standardise all access points, where applicable.
Maintain all boundary walls and fences as necessary.
Maintain footpaths as necessary.
Install and maintain new interpretive signage.
Maintenance and provision of site furniture where appropriate.
13
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
6.2
Ensure the site is healthy, safe and secure
Healthy
Use of the site can help visitors to maintain healthier lifestyles through physical activities such
as walking or playing games, as well as providing means for relaxation in the urban
environment. The surfaced paths are DDA compliant to enable people with disabilities to
access and enjoy the site.
Play areas are inspected weekly by trained Park Officers. In addition, specialist playground
contractors inspect quarterly, and the Council’s insurers carry out an annual, independent
inspection. Any defects that may arise are reported to the relevant Green Spaces Area Officer
who can implement procedures for the necessary repairs. If the equipment is found to be in an
unsafe condition, it will be decommissioned with immediate effect. The Parks Officers also look
for any dangerous objects (e.g. broken glass).
The LBH park bye-laws apply to the site (a copy of which can be obtained from LBH Green
Spaces) and are enforced by Parks Officers when necessary. Under the Health and Safety at
Work Act (1974), the LBH is responsible for ensuring, so far as practical, the health and safety
of employees, contractors and visitors whilst conducting all involved activities. As such, it is
important to LBH and all staff and contractors are aware of their respective obligations. Details
can be found from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This includes a link to the guidelines
for reporting incidents and RIDDOR, the HSE incident reporting scheme. Risk assessment
policy states the procedures necessary to comply with the Act. However, in the future, it would
be beneficial to brief the Friends so that users were aware of risks/issues, affecting health and
safety, which could arise.
Safe and Secure
The site does suffer occasional vandalism. However, it should be noted that some anti-social
behaviour does affect the park on an infrequent basis. Any issues reported in the park are dealt
with by our Enforcement Team and also Parks Officers (phone: 01895 256000) or on-call Parks
Officers. If a pattern of anti-social behavior is noted, good relationships have been established
with the local Police and Safer Neighborhood Officers who can be called upon to assist.
Any safety issues identified are dealt with as and when appropriate.
Parks Officers Team
The park rarely suffers from severe vandalism but low-level anti-social behaviour occurs from
time to time. This generally includes graffiti, litter and broken glass caused by smashed bottles.
The council’s Park Officers fall under the umbrella of the council’s Green Spaces Team, which
manages the park. The Park Officers provide a park-keeping facility and enhance the security
of the park and its visitors. The Team carries out daily checks so that any defects, such as
graffiti, are dealt with quickly. In many cases the Park Officers will deal with urgent problems
(such as broken glass) there and then.
The Park Officers’ role includes:
-
Undertaking regular visits to the park and reporting as necessary
Basic maintenance of park equipment and facilities
Non-specialist horticultural work and litter picking
Regular inspection of playgrounds
14
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Identifying acts of vandalism and submitting reports.
Investigating and gathering information on accidents etc.
Responding quickly and effectively to public complaints.
The park officers have recently received training in chainsaw use which has enabled them to
carry out a wider range of practical works including conservation works and deal with
emergency tree call outs.
Objectives
1.
2.
3.
4.
Undertake a regular cleaning regime to remove litter, and respond quickly to fly tipping.
Continue to implement Health and Safety policies.
When appropriate, ensure that people using the park are aware of the relevant bylaws.
Continue to encourage residents to value the park, through involvement with local groups
like Friends of Willow Tree.
5. Ensure residents feel more engaged by informing them of upcoming events on site notice
boards.
6. Maintain firebreaks
More serious anti-social behaviour is very rare at Willow Tree Open Space, but may need to be
addressed by other agencies such as the police or the council’s Enforcement Team.
6.3
Ensure the site is clean and well maintained
‘For aesthetic as well as health and safety reasons issues of cleanliness and maintenance must
be adequately addressed’ (ISPAL, formerly ILAM).
The site is maintained by the borough’s Grounds Maintenance Team. All works are carried out
in line with the detailed specification which provides clear definition of the standards and
quantity of work required. The Park Officers also contribute by reporting any areas of
maintenance needed, and the public also would be able to report any littered, vandalised or
badly maintained areas.
Willow Tree Open Space has a number of litterbins in the play area, which are emptied on a
twice weekly basis in line with the specification for the site, and prior to mowing. Within the
areas of long grass and within the hedgerows and woodlands the litter can be more difficult to
find and collect than other habitats. When this is combined with regular tipping, rubbish
accumulation is becoming a problem. We have therefore instigated a new regular litter
collection regime to hopefully eliminate this problem. Working with the street cleansing team, a
more enthusiastic approach should be taken on litter removal.
We also work with Keep Britain Tidy and local business and arrange litter picking days.
The guidelines as to allowing dogs within parks and open spaces are covered within the
byelaws. The Parks Officers do, however, advise dog owners of their responsibility when visiting
the park. In addition to this, the Park Enforcement Officers are empowered to issue dog fouling
tickets in line with the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996.
Although the present arrangements mean that Willow Tree Open Space is kept clean, tidy and
presentable, further improvements can be made. The improvements will be centered on areas
which often do not look as well maintained as the rest of the site.
15
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Objectives
1. Strive to improve current maintenance arrangements by continuing to monitor litter
collections and other maintenance regimes, improving where necessary and possible.
2. Introduce weekly inspections and removals of entrance and interpretation board
inspections for graffiti.
3. Continue dog bin emptying regime.
4. Continue with a programmed of improvements throughout the site.
5. Continue to monitor anti-social behaviour such as graffiti, litter and deal within the
council’s timeframes
6. Continue to promote and encourage within the community the council’s ways of reporting
it.
16
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
6.4
Ensure sustainable management of resources
The London Borough of Hillingdon recognises and is aware of the need to minimise adverse
impact on the environment, and agree with the principles of waste minimisation as defined in
Local Agenda 21. The Borough actively pursues ways of delivering sustainable development
and ensuring environmental sustainability is a vital part of this. The Borough has signed up to
the peat charter, and discourages the use of peat-based products in its horticultural work.
Maintenance agreements discourage the use of pesticides and herbicides on the site, a stance
that has environmental and financial benefits. Therefore, other methods of pest control are
utilised, and, where possible, non-herbicidal weed control is carried out. Where it is absolutely
necessary, the contractor will use non-residual herbicide applications (e.g. glyphosate), to
reduce environmental impact. Also, where they are used, herbicides are applied as spot
treatment rather than blanket sprayed, and all operatives are trained and certified for that
particular operation.
All green waste created by the grounds maintenance team is recycled off-site. This ensures
waste minimisation. Tree trimmings are also recycled by the borough’s term tree maintenance
contractor. All new plantings are being devised to limit the need for watering and our contractor
is looking at ways to minimise the use of carbon fuels.
It is most important that we are seen to ‘practice what we preach’ and maintain high standards
of sustainable management that demonstrate our awareness of environmental, conservation
and resource issues. We therefore seek to actively research and promote new initiatives in the
field of sustainable resource management.
The London Borough of Hillingdon released a Climate
Strategy
http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/media/pdf/j/j/Climate_chan
ge_consultation_complete.pdf
These policies are embedded within site management
processes.
Objectives
1. Continue to promote waste minimisation.
2. Plan long-term management for all features of
the park.
3. Ensure efficient use of resources.
4. Develop and promote resource conservation
and sustainable development.
5. Continue to minimise the application of
pesticides.
6. Where possible encourage the use of physical /
cultural forms of weed control.
7. Continue to recycle and re-use organic matter
as mulches, soil ameliorants, and for other uses
17
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
6.5
Appropriate management of conservation and heritage features
The importance of green spaces for conservation of wildlife is understood, and they naturally
provide habitats which are not available in the more urban immediate surroundings (i.e. where
concrete predominates). Therefore, the Open Space, through its very nature of being a green
space, is home to flora and fauna as detailed in the Ecology section on P34. An initial baseline
ecological assessment will be undertaken to find out exactly what flora and fauna is present and
to guide management operations.
The heritage of the site mainly involves the history of the site as outlined on P10.
Objectives
1.
2.
3.
4.
6.6
Conserve, landscape features and improve as necessary.
Conserve existing boundaries.
Undertake full tree survey
Undertake a base-line ecological survey.
Encourage community involvement
Local football teams use the pitches in the football
season including:
Hillingdon Abbots FC 4 teams
Glencoe united 2 teams
Hayes End Wanders 2 teams
Partisan FC 2 teams
Yeading ABS
Two multi goal courts encourage informal use of the open space. The cricket table is available
to hire on an ad-hoc basis.
The site is supported by the Friends of Willow Tree Pond and the Bovis Residents Association.
The LBH community strategy outlines seven goals for improving the quality of life of the
community. Proposed actions taken towards achieving the goal ‘a clean and attractive borough’
indeed include involving the community in improving standards of green spaces. The strategy
can be accessed at:
http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/media/pdf/s/t/comm_strat_0515.pdf
The site is popular among local residents as shown by utilisation by different user groups at
different times and for different purposes. This means that they are capable of feeding back
their comments, complaints or suggestions about Willow Tree Open Space. LBH has an online
feedback page for people to submit their feelings or ideas to the Council.
Objectives
1. To work with the Friends of Willow Tree Open Space
2. Improve joint working with local voluntary groups.
3. Further promotion of the site to schools, youth and community groups.
18
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
6.7
Ensure effective marketing of the facility
Willow Tree Open Space is listed in the borough-wide, general leaflet on green spaces in the
section detailing which sites have sports facilities, and exactly what they offer. The site can then
be looked up on the map of green spaces provided by LBH so that people can find their way
there. Both documents are available as hard copies from LBH Green Spaces.
The booklet is available for download at
www.hillingdon.gov.uk/media/pdf/7/b/gs_boo
klet.pdf
The map is available online at
http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/index.jsp?articlei
d=7725
The site’s management plan will also be
made available online through the council’s
web pages, making it more accessible to all,
and therefore a more useful document.
Front cover of the LBH Green Spaces booklet, in which
the site is listed
In order to ensure that the local community
and the general users are aware of what is
going on at the Park, it is essential that a
supply of information is available throughout
the year. This information will be presented
in a variety of different ways and will seek to
encourage understanding and awareness of
the Open Space itself and the wider remit of
the Council. Marketing materials, along with
photographs
showing
community
involvement, are given in appendix D. LBH
has decided not to produce site-specific
leaflets. A general Green Spaces booklet is
available.
Sign boards have been placed at entrances to the site which should further enhance marketing,
and any LBH staff on site are provided with a uniform identifying them as staff, making them
available for the public to approach and query about any aspect of the Park.
Objectives
1. Preparation of interpretative materials for the park.
2. Installation of additional notice boards.
3. Encourage the continued involvement of the Friends of Willow Tree Pond and other
resident’s groups.
4. Encourage and facilitate low-key events for local people.
5. Carry out a visitors’ survey.
6. Continue current activities.
7. Locate and engage other local groups with Willow Tree Pond
19
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
6.8
Implement effective management strategies
‘A Green Flag Park must have a management plan or strategy in place which reflects the
aspirations of agenda 21 and clearly and adequately addresses all the above criteria’ (ISPAL,
formerly LAM).
The site has been owned and therefore managed by what is now The London Borough of
Hillingdon since the late 1970s. Now, the LBH Green Spaces team is responsible for this and is
committed to continue improving the site and making it a special one over the next five years. It
is managed according to Green Spaces standards as summarised in the Site Summary (p5)
The Green Spaces staff structure (in Appendix A) outlines how this works and how
management is kept effective; the Countryside and Conservation Officer, together with the
Technical officer and Green Spaces Manager, is responsible for the day-to-day management of
the park, while the Council’s Parks Officers and term contractors carries out most maintenance
works. These works are supplemented by the volunteer days. Any tree works carried out on site
are conducted by the Council’s specialist tree contractors.
The site will be further well managed through effective staff engagement and involvement. Staff
responsible for the site will be involved in the planning process as they are an integral
component of the site and important for its smooth running. Each year a Performance and
Development Appraisal is completed for each staff member, which helps them to achieve set
objectives for learning
The Green Flag assessment process will also ensure further enhancement, as it is a means for
review of the management and will be used to encourage new thinking and to guide dynamic
and adaptable management, as well as attracting publicity and interest.
Finally, it is most important that we are seen to ‘practice what we preach’ and maintain high
standards of sustainable management that demonstrate our awareness of environmental,
conservation and resource issues. We therefore seek to actively research and promote new
initiatives in the field of sustainable resource management. This, as addressed in section 4.4,
ensures effective sustainable management.
The following management operations outline the effective management plan in place for Willow
Tree Open Space and, through them, we will carry through the effective management of the
site. Other works are ongoing and improvements are continual as described throughout but the
projects outlined (PP 1 – 13 and A & B) are the major planned works essential to the upkeep of
the site.
Objectives
1. Use sustainable management strategies and methods as described in section 6.2.4
2. Encourage the continued involvement of resident’s groups
3. Carry out regular reviews of all management operations and projects.
4. Identify potential sources of appropriate funding
5. Continue to minimise the application of pesticides.
6. Where possible encourage the use of physical / cultural forms of weed control.
7. Continue to recycle and re-use hay cuttings.
8. Carry out regular reviews of all management operations and projects.
9. Learn from past vandalism to minimize repairs and associated material use.
10. Ensure robust designs are used for new furniture.
20
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
7
Management Actions and Maintenance Plan
7.1
5 Year Plan
The following is a quick reference to the planned timing of the management operations in the
five-year period 2015-2020. The exact timing of given project may be subject to availability of
funding being secured. Consequently there is potential for some movement of projects from
year to year.
Year
2015
2016
Project
WT- 1
Ecological Survey
WT-2
Improvement of Hedgerows
WT-3
Bramble Management
WT 4
Glade creation
WT 5
Thinning of Woodland
WT 6
Creation of additional Wildflower Meadow areas
WT 7
Habitat Creation, Slow worms etc
WT 8
Removal of non-native species
WT 9
Creation of habitat piles
WT 10
Pond management
WT 11
Path network improvements phase 4
WT 12
Trim Trail
WT 13
Entrance enhancements
WT-A
Annual Facilities Review
WT-B
Annual Site User Survey
WT- 1
Ecological Survey
WT-2
Improvement of Hedgerows
WT-3
Bramble Management
WT 4
Glade creation
WT 5
Thinning of Woodland
WT 6
Creation of additional Wildflower Meadow areas
WT 7
Habitat Creation, Slow worms etc
WT 8
Removal of non-native species
WT 9
Creation of habitat piles
WT 10
Pond management
WT 11
Path network improvements phase 5
WT 12
Trim Trail
WT-A
Annual Facilities Review
WT-B
Annual Site User Survey
21
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
2017
2018
2019
WT- 1
Ecological Survey
WT-2
Improvement of Hedgerows
WT-3
Bramble Management
WT 4
Glade creation
WT 5
Thinning of Woodland
WT 6
Creation of additional Wildflower Meadow areas
WT 7
Habitat Creation, Slow worms etc
WT 8
Removal of non-native species
WT 9
Creation of habitat piles
WT 10
Pond management
WT 11
Path network improvements phase 6
WT 12
Trim Trail
WT-A
Annual Facilities Review
WT-B
Annual Site User Survey
WT- 1
Ecological Survey
WT-2
Improvement of Hedgerows
WT-3
Bramble Management
WT 4
Glade creation
WT 5
Thinning of Woodland
WT 6
Creation of additional Wildflower Meadow areas
WT 7
Habitat Creation, Slow worms etc
WT 8
Removal of non-native species
WT 9
Creation of habitat piles
WT 10
Pond management
WT 11
Path network improvements phase 7
WT-A
Annual Facilities Review
WT-B
Annual Site User Survey
WT- 1
Ecological Survey
WT-2
Improvement of Hedgerows
WT-3
Bramble Management
WT 4
Glade creation
WT 5
Thinning of Woodland
WT 6
Creation of additional Wildflower Meadow areas
WT 7
Habitat Creation, Slow worms etc
WT 8
Removal of non-native species
WT 9
Creation of habitat piles
WT 10
Pond management
WT 11
Path network improvements phase 8
WT-A
Annual Facilities Review
WT-B
Annual Site User Survey
22
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
7.2
Individual Project Plans
The following pages contain a brief project plan for each of the projects listed in section 7.1.
These provide not only a description of the project, but also the rationale behind it, when the
works are likely to be carried out, by whom, and how much it is likely to cost.
Project:
WT -1
Ecological Survey
Summary:
To undertake ecological surveys to establish species onsite and to
define management actions for the future.
Rationale:
In order to plan future enhancements an initial survey will be
undertaken to identify key habitats and species are present on site.
Constraints:
It is recommended that the survey be undertaken in Spring as:
1. Highest fauna activity occurs in Spring
2. The results can then be incorporated in projects later in the
year
Who will do it?
Budget
Estimate:
Project Status:
Project:
Countryside and Conservation Officer/ Volunteers/ specialist
ecologists
Within existing resources
A Phase One habitat survey has been carried out but further surveys
are required
WT -2
Improvement of Hedgerows
Summary:
Improve existing hedgerow which runs along garden boundaries
Rationale:
To allow hedge to reach enough height to enable hedge laying in the
next 2 – 3 years.
Constraints:
Local residents to be notified as there may be some opposition to this.
Who will do it?
Budget
Estimate:
Project Status:
Specialist hedge laying contractor
£2,000
This is now under review as some hedges were cut back by
neighbouring properties and some were flailed in response to
residents requests
23
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Project:
WT – 3
Bramble management
Summary:
To remove approx 1/3 of all bramble on site annually.
Rationale:
To ensure that the open character of the site remains
Constraints:
Who will do it?
Budget
Estimate:
Project Status:
Project:
Clearing of brambles must be carried out during Sept - Feb
Contractors/ volunteers/ work experience/ Blue Sky
Within existing budget constraints
Some bramble removed but this is an ongoing project
WT – 4
Glade creation
Summary:
To conduct a cleaning small openings within the scrubby woodland areas
Rationale:
To create open areas within the woodland which will allow natural re-growth
of woodland flora whilst improving the overall species diversity of the
woodland and improving the understorey.
Constraints:
Clearing to be carried out from Oct - Feb
Who will do it?
Contractors/ Blue sky/ work Experience
Budget
Estimate:
Project Status:
Project:
Within existing budget constraints
Park Officers commenced this in spring 2013 and this will continue annually
WT – 5
Thinning of woodland
Summary:
Thinning woodland throughout site
Rationale
To remove non-indigenous species whilst allowing indigenous species such
as Oak, Holly to establish and therefore allowing the understory to develop
Constraints:
Who will do it?
Budget
Estimate:
To be carried out in the winter period Oct - Feb
Staff; Contractors; Blue sky; volunteers
Within budget constraints
Project Status:
Park Officers commenced this in spring 2013 and this will continue annually
Project update
2016:
Thinning out of Silver birch and maple saplings in woodland adjacent to
pond. Materials left onsite as habitat piles
24
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Project:
WT – 6
Creation of additional wildflower meadow areas
Summary:
To allow additional sections of existing amenity grass to grow and be
managed as an annual wildflowere hay meadow cut and clear during late
Aug/July
Rationale:
To improve grassland species diversity
To improve habitat structure onsite
To improve overall biodiversity of site
Constraints:
Subject to consultation with user groups
Areas of amenity grass to be left uncut.
Who will do it?
Budget
Estimate:
Project status:
Staff/Contractors
Within existing budget constraints
An area of meadow
adjacent to Willow Tree
pond has been left uncut
since 2011. This has
been successful and
species diversity has
increased. Park users
have also been
supportive of these.
Areas of the site have
been included in the
Higher Level
Stewardship agreement
from Dec 2013 and is
managed as hay meadows and cut and clear.
25
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Project:
WT – 7
Creation of habitats slow worm etc
Summary:
To create habitat area for slow worms and other herptofauna
Rationale:
To ensure there is suitable protected habitat throughout the year for
species such as slow worms, which may have established onsite.
Constraints:
Who will do it?
Budget Estimate:
Project Status:
Project:
Staff; volunteers
Within budget constraints
Some habitat piles have been created within the pond area, however
further piles have been created as glades are created and woodlands
thinned out.
WT – 8
Creation of habitat piles
Summary:
Leave branches etc in piles at various locations around the site.
Rationale:
To create habitat piles for insects, small mammals and reptiles.
Constraints:
Who will do it?
None
Contractors; Blue sky; Volunteers; Staff
Budget Estimate: Within budget constraints
Project Status:
Habitat piles have been created within the pond area, however further piles
have been created as glades are created and woodlands thinned out.
26
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Project:
WT – 9
Removal of non native species
Summary:
Removal of non-native plant and shrub species which are garden
escapees
Rationale:
To stop further encroachment of garden species which can out compete
species which naturally occur within woodlands and meadows, and also
ensure soil ph is not altered
Constraints:
Who will do it?
None
Contractors; Blue sky; Volunteers; Staff
Budget Estimate: Within existing budget constraints
Project Status:
Project:
This is ongoing and part of the annual management and maintenance
programme.
WT – 10
Pond Management
Summary:
To carry out pond management works
Rationale:
Several occasions a year avoiding nesting season, remove a proportion of
reedmace and fragmities
Removal of branches or logs from water
Clear any litter
Constraints:
None
Who will do it?
Staff
Budget Estimate: Within existing resources
Project Status:
Ongoing with use of local volunteers and also contractors
Project update
2016:
Pond works have been carried on in Nov 2015. Additional pond works will
be carried out in August 2016 and Nov 2016
27
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Project:
WT – 11
Path network Improvements phase 4
Summary:
To remove and re-lay root-damaged old paths to incorporate root barriers.
Rationale:
To provide DDA compliant paths
To improve safety for site users
To prevent re-occurrence of root damage.
Constraints:
Who will do it?
Site needs to remain accessible during works.
Specialist contractors
Budget Estimate: £35000
Project Status:
Path replacement continued in 2013 following receiving funds from
Chrysalis Bid, however further sections will need doing until all paths have
been updated. This will be reliant on funding and may continue over the
several years.
Project update
2016:
No further funding has been secured as yet, although we are looking to
apply to the council's Chrysalis Fund.
Project:
WT – 12
Trim Trail
Summary:
To supply and install a trim trail
Rationale:
To improve facilities in Open Space for site users
Constraints:
Subject to funding.
Subject to consultation
Who will do it?
Specialist contractors
Budget Estimate: Approx £10000
Project Status:
This is subject to securing funding
28
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Project:
WT – 13
Entranceway Enhancements
Summary:
To improve entrance and boundary at Broadmead Road entrance.
Rationale:
To improve appearance of entrance.
To make site more welcoming.
Constraints:
Subject to funding.
Site needs to remain accessible during works.
Who will do it?
Specialist contractors
Budget Estimate: Approx £5000
Project Status:
Project:
This has been put on hold due to financial restraints
WT-A
Annual facilities Review
Summary:
In conjunction with site users, a full review of all site facilities will be undertaken.
Rationale:
To ensure standards are maintained, site user’s needs are met, and continual
improvements are achieved.
Constraints: Nil
Who will do
it?
Budget
Estimate:
Project
Status:
Staff
Within existing resources
Due to changes in the Green Spaces structure cuts to staff numbers have meant
that no surveys have been carried out
29
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Project:
WT-B
Annual Site User Survey
Summary:
A survey of as many site users as possible will be conducted.
Rationale:
As part of a larger survey at sites across the borough, the information collected will
be used to determine future management decisions.
Constraints: Nil
Who will do
it?
Budget
Estimate:
Project
Status:
Staff
Within existing resources
Due to changes in the Green Spaces structure cuts to staff numbers have meant
that no surveys have been carried out
30
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
7.3
Regular Maintenance Plan
In addition to the regular maintenance of the site, as outlined in the Site Grounds Maintenance
standards, (see Appendix C) the following actions shall be undertaken on an ongoing basis:

Undertake regular cleaning regime to remove litter

Continue to implement Health and Safety Policies

Ensure that park users are aware of relevant bylaws

Continue to encourage park users to value the park

Enhance maintenance regimes where practical

Continue to promote waste minimisation on sites

Continue to minimise the application of pesticides

Where possible encourage the use of cultural forms of weed control

Develop and promote resource conservation and sustainable development

Conserve existing walls and boundaries

Carry out regular reviews of all management operations and projects

Identify new sources of funding.
Higher Level Stewardship Agreement –
Higher level stewardship agreement is now in place as of Dec 2013 and certain areas of the
park is included in this for management as wildflower meadows to be cut and cleared annually.
Please see page 35 for map showing areas and management regime.
31
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
8
Ecology
Willow Tree Open Space forms part of a Site of
Nature Conservation Importance, Borough Grade
II. This means that there would be a significant
loss to the borough, in biodiversity, were this site
to be lost.
The entire site is valued for the dense scrub/tree
breaks around the amenity grassland, and for the
large roughland and woodland wildlife area to the
north margin.
This site is a relatively flat area consisting of large areas of amenity grassland interspersed with
sections of scrubby woodland. There are tarmac paths throughout the site and despite the high
usage of the site by the public, much of the woodlands is likely to offer relatively low –
disturbance habitats of use to birds and mammals. It is difficult to assess the quality the areas
of grassland due to unsympathetic and damaging grass cutting, resulting in large areas of very
short grass and thick deposits of uncollected cuttings in mid-season. However, there is an area
of hay meadow to the northeast of the site, which is cut annually and is of relatively high value.
8.1
Habitats
Eight principal habitats can be recognized within the site, as follows:
The following principal habitats can be recognized within the site, as follows:
1. Amenity grass
2. Semi-improved
grassland
3. Wildflower meadow
4. Tussocky grassland
5. Woodland
6. Scrub
7. Hedgerow
8. Pond
32
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
8.2. Ecology Management Actions and Maintenance Plan
5 Year Plan
The objective of this management plan is to ensure that the openness of the site remains and to
restore grassland to a species rich sward consisting of various types of meadow grasses and
also of Wildflower species associated with meadows and damp meadows.
To achieve this, a number of management objectives will need to be achieved for each type of
habitat onsite.
Grassland: Adjust the cutting regime of the amenity grass to allow a longer sward length to
ensure that no bare areas are created. At least a 1m margin to be left uncut, adjacent to the
woodland and hedgerow margins, to allow a graduated profile to establish and also leaving a
buffer zone for wildlife.
Several areas of grassland to be left uncut to grow
as hay meadows, which would be cut in late July –
early August and cleared from the site enabling any
wildflowers within the seed bank of the soil to grow
and eventually establish. All cuttings must be
removed to ensure that the soil does not receive
any further nutrient enrichment from the grass
cuttings which are left on site.
Cuttings can be used from existing wildflower
meadow area on site or from nearby sites and
spread so that wildflower seed dispersal can occur.
There are a small number of Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) plants in the
existing wildflower meadow area, which must be managed through spraying to ensure that this
does not spread.
Woodlands: The woodlands to be thinned
out by the removal of invasive species
such as Birch; Sycamore; Laurel; hawthorn
and blackthorn scrub. This will allow the
understory to develop and shrubs such as
Holly and Hazel to establish.
Woodland glades are to be created by
clearing sections, which will enable
woodland flowering species to establish.
Hazel coppicing to be carried out on
rotation throughout the site where found.
33
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Hedgerow: Where possible existing hedgerows should be left to grow to a height of at least 2.5
m allowing a decent height for the hedge to be laid. This will ultimately extend the life of the
hedge but will also add biodiversity value to the site and also improve the site aesthetically.
Scrub: Removal of the Blackthorn and Hawthorn scrub, which has encroached the edges of
the woodland and grassland areas. This should be done in sections so that it does not too
intrusive on the site. Re-growth may occur so stumps to be treated with glyphosate. This
should be done on a rotational basis so as to reduce the impact on the biodiversity and to
ensure that re-colonisation does not occur. Some scrub should remain to ensure that the
habitat profile is graduated, but also because it provides a valuable habitat for birds and small
mammals by providing nesting sites and also food during the autumn in the form of berries.
Bramble: Some areas of bramble should be left as habitat and food source for birds and other
small mammals, but this should be managed on a yearly programme to inhibit encroachment.
This should be done on a rotational basis so as to reduce the impact on the biodiversity and to
ensure that re-colonisation does not occur. Some brambles should be retained, but well
managed as this provides and excellent habitat for both birds and small mammals. It also
provides habitat for reptiles such as slow worms which may be onsite. This not only provides
nesting sites for birds but also food source in the form of berries.
Pond: Removal of phragmities and Reed mace to ensure that areas of open water remain.
This is to be done in small quantities several times a year avoiding spawning and nesting
season.
Regularly remove litter from the waters edge and water surface. Remove any
overhanging branches which create too much shading.
34
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Map 5 – Management Plan Works
35
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Higher Level Stewardship Agreement –
Higher level stewardship agreement is now in place as of Dec 2013 and certain areas of the park is included in this for management as wildflower
meadows to be cut and cleared annually.
MAP 6
36
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
8.3 Ecology Annual Management Works:
The following is a quick reference to the planned timing of the management operations in the five-year period 2015 -2019. The exact timing of given
project may be subject to availability of funding being secured. Consequently there is potential for some movement of projects from year to year.
TASK
ITIMING
FREQUENCY
LOCATION
CARRIED
OUT BY
BUDGET
IMPLICATIO
NS
PRIORITY
Allow areas of grassland to be
left uncut as a Hay/wildflower
Meadow Area as per map
Create 1m margin/buffer zone
Spring
Annually
Throughout site
GM
None
1
Spring
Annually
GM
None
1
Implement Hay cut
Summer
Contractor
None
1
Spraying of Giant Hogweed
Spring/
Summer
Improve hay meadow
diversification by spreading out
hay from local sites
Remove scrub (create brash
piles)
Bramble removal cut back 1.5m
and cut further scallops to
diversify the scrub edge
Glade creation
Summer
Staff;
volunteers;
none
1
Staff
volunteers
Staff
volunteers
None
1
Winter
Entire site along
hedgerow and
woodland margins
Annually
Throughout site as per
map
Annually until no In north east section
longer present
adjacent to Hay
on site
meadow area
Ongoing until
In new areas of
improved
wildflower meadows
species diversity throughout site
On a three year Woodland
rotation
Along woodland edges
None
2
Winter
Once
Within woodlands
Contractor
none
1
Thinning
Winter
Within woodlands
Contractor
none
2
Carry out tree safety check
Winter
Sessions
annually
Annually
Entire site
staff
none
1
Winter
contractor
37
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Appendices
38
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Appendix A
Introduction to the London Borough of Hillingdon
Description
Hillingdon is situated on the western edge of Greater London and is the second largest London
borough, covering a total area of about 42 square miles. The Borough is just 14 miles from
central London and bounded by the counties of Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Surrey and
the London Boroughs of Hounslow, Ealing and Harrow.
Hillingdon is home to Heathrow, the world's busiest airport that caters for more than 60 million
passengers a year.
The Borough has eight leisure centres and 2 pools, 17 libraries, two theatres and over 170
green spaces including Ruislip Woods Natural Nature Reserve and Lido.
History
The London Borough of Hillingdon was one of the 32 London Boroughs created by the London
Government Act 1963. It was formed by the amalgamation of the Borough of Uxbridge and the
Urban Districts of Hayes and Harlington, Ruislip/Northwood and Yiewsley and West Drayton.
The new borough came into existence on April 1, 1965 when the new council started work.
As well as taking on the work of the four previous district authorities the council became
responsible for local services such as education, libraries and the children's services. These
had previously been run by the Middlesex County Council, which ceased to exist on April 1
1965.
Hillingdon's purpose-built Civic Centre opened its doors to the public in 1977. The council
specified the use of traditional materials such as bricks and tiles while the sloping roofs were
designed by the architects to reflect the style found in many of the borough's homes.
Workforce
The council employs approximately 3,359 people, including schools' staff.
People
Hillingdon has a population of 273,936 (2011estimate). There is a growing proportion of young
people, particularly of school age children.
Around 39.4% of the borough's residents are from ethnic minority groups (mainly Indian,
Pakistani, other Asian and Black Caribbean).
There is an active voluntary sector, and a wide variety of community groups, tenants' and
residents' associations.
39
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Leisure
Hillingdon is rich in wildlife and wildlife habitat including waterways, lakes, meadows and nature
reserves. Ruislip Woods have been designated London's first National Nature Reserve, while
nearby Ruislip Lido boasts 40 acres of water. The borough also offers a host of sporting
activities, including six sports centers, many with newly refurbished gyms and four exceptional
18-hole golf courses, including a championship standard course at Stockley Park. The arts and
entertainment thrive, with The Beck professional theatre in Hayes, the Compass Theatre,
Ickenham, and various other venues. There is major new shopping centre, The Chimes in
Uxbridge.
The Resident Services
The Resident Services Group of the London Borough of Hillingdon has the responsibility for the
Environmental Development and sustainability of Hillingdon’s Green Spaces. Amongst the
other responsibilities it provides events and promotes outdoor activities in the Borough’s Parks
and Other Green Spaces. The Green Spaces Team (see Fig 1.) oversees the management
and development of all public green spaces within the London Borough of Hillingdon, which also
includes parks, allotments, playing fields, woodlands and other green spaces.
Figure 1.
Green Spaces Team Structure
40
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Appendix B
Ecology Annual Works Programme
This programme remains similar each year, and is valid for the duration covered by the plan.
Month
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Glade creation
Thinning
Hedge laying
Coppicing
Bramble removal
Litter collection - low
frequency
Litter collection high frequency
Hay cut
Grass mowing
Spraying Giant
Hogweed
Butterfly Survey
Herptofauna survey
Bird survey
41
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Appendix C
Site Grounds Maintenance Standards
Summary of Annual Frequencies
Maintenance of Grassed Areas
Monthly Frequency*
Operation
Grass Cutting
Litter picking prior to
grass cutting
Leaf Clearance
Trim grass edging to
hard standing and
around obstacles
Trim grass edging to
walls, fence lines
Reform grass edging
to all beds
Trim grass edging to
all beds
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
1
3
16
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
2
1
1
16
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ann
ual
Freq.
16
16
1
Jan
Feb
Dec
1
1
As
reqd.
Hedge and Hedgerow Maintenance
Monthly Frequency*
Operation
Pruning of hedge
Removal of weeds, litter,
rubbish and debris from base of
hedge
Annual
Freq.
1
1
Jan
Annual
Freq.
1
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
1
1
Tree Maintenance
Monthly Frequency*
Operation
Stake maintenance and removal
to newly planted trees
Weaning of 5-10 year old trees
away from stakes
Removal of suckers and
Epicormic shoots to all trees,
but excluding Lime trees
Removal of suckers and
Epicormic shoots to Lime trees
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
1
1
2
1
42
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Miscellaneous Works
Monthly Frequency*
Operation
Clearance of all fence lines
Visual inspection of site and
features by Grounds
Maintenance Officer
Dog bin emptying
Rubbish bin emptying
Litter picking and collection
Annual
Freq.
1
104
Jan
Feb
Mar
52
104
As
reqd.
Maintain flower bed by
As
playground
reqd.
* Note – exact timing may vary according to local conditions
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
1
Twice weekly for whole year
Once weekly for whole year
Twice weekly for whole year
Frequencies are for guidance only and are subject to change seasonally and according to site.
43
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Appendix D
Site Marketing Analysis and Plan
Willowtree in Yeading is situated near to major roads with easy access to the A40, M40, M4 and
M25.
Ward residents’ profile (based on results of 2011 Census)
Gender:
Males
Females
Total:
6,710
6,876
13,586
Households: 4,853
9.8%
16.0%
12.3%
50.6%
8.2%
3.2%
Households with dependant children:44.1 %
Age:
0–4
5 – 15
16 – 24
25 – 59
60- 74
75 +
Ethnic Group:
White
Mixed
Asian / Asian British
Black / Black British
Arab or other Ethnic group
Health of people:
Very good/Good
Fairly Good
Very bad/Bad
84.9%
10.5%
4.6%
35.9%
4.9%
39.6%
14.4%
5.2%
People with a limiting lifetime illness 12.8%:
Analysis
The ward profile of residents indicates that 3.2% of residents are over 75 and that almost 13.%
of residents indicated they have limiting lifetime illnesses. Willowtree therefore has an important
role as a place for quiet enjoyment. Seats need to be easy to use by people with disabilities and
a DDA compliant design is important.
Equally, 38.1% of residents are under the age of 25 with 25.8% of the population being under
15. This helps to explain that the use of Willowtree Park is used fairly evenly by all ages of the
community, and has an important role as a place for healthy, active recreational activities
44
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Marketing Segmentation
The key market segments for Willow Tree Open Space appear to be:
a.
Immediate neighbours
b.
People living within walking distance of the site.
c.
People living in the ward with limiting lifetime illnesses.
d.
People living in the ward/further away from the site who have an existing/potential
interest in local natural history and heritage.
e.
People who visit or work nearby
Marketing Methods to Help Enhance Appreciation and Appropriate use of the Site

Regular liaison with interested parties regarding issues affecting Willowtree Open Space.

Use of welcoming informative interpretation boards at key points on the site to promote
the special interests of the site to regular and occasional users.

Develop contact with residents over the age of 65 to promote site and ensure feedback
can be obtained from potentially less mobile users.

Promote Green Flag standards to users and neighbours to help raise the profile and
understanding of Willowtree Open Space.

Encourage articles to be written and published about Willowtree Open Space – Green
Spaces web page, Hillingdon People, other publications, as opportunities arise.

Ensure that the borough’s Green Spaces leaflet is kept up to date and available to the
public at libraries and on the Green Spaces web page.

Encourage local schools to do projects relating to Willowtree Open Space to aid
understanding and appreciation and awareness locally.
An annual survey of users will continue to be carried out to compare the profile of users with
that of ward residents and to learn more about users’ interests and expectations of Willow Tree
Open Space. This information will feed into discussions with the interested parties and the
management plan reviewing process.
45
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Map7 – Historical Map 1846 - 1901
Appendix E – Historical Maps
46
Map8 – Historical Map 1888 - 1915
Map9 – Historical Map 1900 - 1949
Map10 – Historical Map 1963 - 1970
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Map 11 – Historical Map 1974 - 1977
50
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Map 12 – Historical Map 1986 - 1995
51
Appendix F – Species Lists
TREES
Scientific Name
Quercus robur
Fagus slyvatica
Prunus spinosa
Crataegus monogyna
Poplar sp
Prunus laurocerasus rotundifolia
Ilex aquifolium
Sambucus nigra
Aesculus hippocastanum
Fraxinus excelsior
Salix caprea
Forsythia intermedia
Acer pseudoplatanus
Ligustrum vulgare
Prunus padus
Buddleia davidii
Corylus avellana
Buxus sempervirens
Heracleum mantegazzianum
Common Name
Oak
Beech
Blackthorn
Hawthorn
Poplar
Laurel
Holly
Elder
Horse Chestnut
Ash
Pussy willow
Forsythia
Sycamore
Privet
Bird Cherry
Buddleia
hazel
Common box
Giant Hogweed
Cotoneaster franchetii
Cotoneaster
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
PLANTS
Scientific Name
Common Name
Fritillaria meleagris
Fritillary
Geranium robertianum Herb robert
Stellaria media
Common chickweed
Hedera helix
Ivy
Narcissus sp
Daffodil
Crocus albiflorus
Crocus
Arum maculatum
Lords & Ladies
Arum italicum
Cuckoo pint
Urtica dioica
Nettles
Lamium album
White dead nettle
Rubus fructicosus
Bramble
Anthriscys sylvestris
Cow parsley
Rumex obtusifolius
Broad-leaved dock
Galium aparine
Goose Grass
Endymion non-scriptus Bluebell
Ranunculus ficaria
Lesser celandine
Sanicula europaea
Sanicle
Lonicera periclymenum Honey suckle
Iris sp
Iris
Carex sp
Sedge
Galanthus nivalis
Snow drops
53
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Birds
Scientific Name
Columba palumbus
Parus major
Corvus corone
Erithacus rubecula
Cyanistes caeruleus
Turdus merula
Psittacula krameri
Picus viridis
Regulus regulus
Common Name
Wood Pigeon
Great tit
Crow
Robin
Blue tit
Black bird
Ringed neck parakeet
Green woodpecker
Gold crest
Status
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
None
Amber
Amber
The UK’s birds can be split into three categories of conservation importance – red, amber and
green.
Red is the highest conservation priority, with species needing urgent action. Amber is the next
most critical group, followed by green.
Birds in the red and amber lists will be subject to at least one of the relevant factors listed
below.
Red list criteria
 Globally threatened
 Historical population decline in UK during 1800–1995
 Rapid (> or =50%) decline in UK breeding population over last 25 years
 Rapid (> or =50%) contraction of UK breeding range over last 25 years
Amber list criteria
 Historical population decline during 1800–1995, but recovering; population size has more
than doubled over last 25 years
 Moderate (25-49%) decline in UK breeding population over last 25 years
 Moderate (25-49%) contraction of UK breeding range over last 25 years
 Moderate (25-49%) decline in UK non-breeding population over last 25 years
 Species with unfavourable conservation status in Europe (SPEC = Species of European
Conservation Concern)
 Five-year mean of 1–300 breeding pairs in UK
 > or =50% of UK breeding population in 10 or fewer sites, but not rare breeders
 > or =50% of UK non-breeding population in 10 or fewer sites
 > or =20% of European breeding population in UK
 > or =20% of NW European (wildfowl), East Atlantic Flyway (waders) or European
(others) non-breeding populations in UK
Green list criteria
 No identified threat to the population’s status
54
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Appendix G
Council Plan: Commitment to Green Flag Awards
LBH’s commitment to achieving many Green Flag sites is reinforced in the Council Plan:
A vision for 2026
http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/media/27633/Hillingdon-Local-Plan-Part-1--Strategic-PoliciesPublished-version/pdf/Local_Plan_Part_1_Strategic_Policies_15_feb_2013_a.pdf
55
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
Appendix H - TREE SURVEY
#
Species
DBH
Height
Spread
Life
Work
20-40cm
8
4
2
No Work Required
1
Maple Field
2
Hawthorn Common
<20cm
7
4
2
No Work Required
G1
Hawthorn Common Field Maple
<20cm
7
4
2
No Work Required
G7
Alder Grey
<20cm
8
3
2
No Work Required
G7
Alder Grey
<20cm
8
3
2
No Work Required
G7
Poplar Grey
<20cm
7
4
2
No Work Required
17
Pine Corsican
<20cm
6
3
2
No Work Required
G12
Pine Scots x 3
<20cm
6
3
2
No Work Required
28
Alder Common x2
<20cm
6
3
2
No Work Required
32
Alder Common
20-40cm
7
3
2
No Work Required
37
Alder Common
<20cm
6
3
2
No Work Required
38
Alder Common
<20cm
6
3
2
No Work Required
39
Alder Common
<20cm
6
3
2
No Work Required
40
Rowan
<20cm
5
2
2
No Work Required
4
Poplar Grey
20-40cm
12
6
3
No Work Required
5
Maple Field
20-40cm
9
4
3
No Work Required
6
Poplar Grey
20-40cm
12
6
3
No Work Required
<20cm
6
4
3
No Work Required
Maple Field
20-40cm
8
4
3
No Work Required
Maple Field x14
20-40cm
8
4
3
No Work Required
Poplar Grey
20-40cm
15
7
3
No Work Required
G4
Poplar White x 16
20-40cm
15
7
3
No Work Required
G5
Poplar Lombardy x 5
20-40cm
15
3
3
No Work Required
G5
Willow Goat x 1
40-60cm
15
3
3
No Work Required
G6
Willow Goat X 2, 1 Poplar
20-40cm
15
3
3
No Work Required
G7
Willow Goat
<20cm
6
3
3
No Work Required
G8
G2
7
G3
9
Hawthorn Common x 5 + 1Field Maple
Poplar Grey, Willow x 50
20-40cm
10
5
3
No Work Required
16
Poplar Grey, Field Maple x 16
20-40cm
10
5
3
No Work Required
16
Maple Field
20-40cm
9
4
3
No Work Required
18
Poplar Grey
40-60cm
15
6
3
No Work Required
Poplar Grey, Field Maple,Common Alder x 8
20-40cm
12
5
3
No Work Required
19
Poplar Grey
20-40cm
12
5
3
Crown Reduce 30%
20
Plum Cherry
20-40cm
9
4
3
No Work Required
21
Plum Cherry
<20cm
7
4
3
No Work Required
G9
G10
Plum Cherry, Acacia False x 6
20-40cm
9
4
3
No Work Required
Acacia False
40-60cm
10
5
3
No Work Required
G11
Acacia False x 9
20-40cm
10
5
3
No Work Required
G13
Willow Goat x 3
60-80cm
15
6
3
No Work Required
G14
Acacia False x 4
20-40cm
8
3
3
No Work Required
G15
Acacia False x 6
20-40cm
8
3
3
No Work Required
Poplar Grey
40-60cm
12
5
3
No Work Required
23
34
G16
Rowan x 6
<20cm
5
2
3
No Work Required
36
Blackthorn
<20cm
7
4
3
No Work Required
Urgency
3
Cost
£90.38
56
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
37
G17
Elm English
Acacia False x 13
<20cm
5
1
3
No Work Required
20-40cm
9
3
3
No Work Required
42
Acacia False
<20cm
6
2
3
No Work Required
42
Rowan
<20cm
6
2
3
No Work Required
43
Acacia False
20-40cm
9
3
3
No Work Required
44
Acacia False
<20cm
7
3
3
No Work Required
45
Rowan
<20cm
6
3
3
No Work Required
46a
Alder Common
<20cm
7
3
3
No Work Required
46b
Alder Common
<20cm
7
3
3
No Work Required
G18
Willow Goat x 22
20-40cm
12
5
3
No Work Required
48
Willow Goat x 11
20-40cm
12
5
3
No Work Required
48
Elder Common
20-40cm
12
5
3
No Work Required
49
Acacia False
20-40cm
10
4
3
No Work Required
50
Acacia False
20-40cm
10
4
3
Small Works
51
Willow Goat
20-40cm
10
4
3
No Work Required
13
Poplar Lombardy
20-40cm
15
3
4
Crown Reduce 50%
2
£40.17
22
Plum Cherry
20-40cm
9
4
4
Crown Reduce 30%
2
£90.38
33
Poplar Grey
40-60cm
12
5
4
Remove lowest limb
2
£50.22
12
Willow Goat
20-40cm
15
3
5
Crown Reduce 50%
1
£40.17
16
Poplar Grey
20-40cm
10
5
5
Pollard to stack
1
£75.33
30
Acacia False
20-40cm
8
3
6
Fell/grind
1
£90.38
31
Acacia False
20-40cm
8
3
6
Fell/grind
1
£75.32
35
Rowan
<20cm
5
2
6
Fell/grind
1
£50.21
CA
Acacia, Willow, Cherry Plum
20/40
10
4
No Work Required
CB
Acacia, Willow, Cherry Plum
20/40
10
4
No Work Required
CC
Lombardy Poplar
20/40
12
3
No Work Required
CD
Acacia False, Cherry - Plum
20/40
10
4
No Work Required
CE
Willow, Birch, Pine
20/40
10
4
No Work Required
CF
Poplar, Cherry Plum, Balckthorn
>20
10
4
No Work Required
CG
Willow, Poplar
20/40
12
4
No Work Required
CH
Mixed Willow copse
20/40
10
4
No Work Required
CI
Mixed Cherry - Plum, Blackthorn, Poplar
20/40, 40/60
10
4
No Work Required
CJ
Mixed Willow and Poplar, Pine, Blackthorn
20/40
10
4
No Work Required
CK
Mixed Willow, Acacia, Poplar
20/40
12
4
No Work Required
CL
Mixed Poplar, Blackthorn
20/40
12
4
No Work Required
CM
Poplar woodland
20/40
12
4
No Work Required
CN
Mixed Acacia, Blackthorn
>20
7
4
No Work Required
Life
Ideal
£25.11
Observed
12
0
16
14
50
44
12
3
8
2
2
3
57
Willow Tree Open Space Management Plan 2015 - 2019
____________________________________________________________________________________
58