Brent Council is considering the future of the Welsh Harp Environmental Education Centre (WHEEC) after Thames21 withdrew as a provider because they could no longer sustain the losses. As stated in the meeting information in the Public reports pack, Thames21 vacated the WHEEC in July 2025.
A petition, led by Martin Francis and supported by 487 signatories, was presented at a Brent Council meeting on Monday, 15 September 2025, urging the council to explore opportunities to maintain primary education at the WHEEC. The petition calls for a full scoping exercise to find a new organisation to run the centre, potentially involving local industries or voluntary organisations.
Francis, an ex-teacher and head teacher, highlighted the importance of the centre for children's environmental education, stating that many primary schools lack the grounds to match the experience offered by the WHEEC's woodlands and ponds. He referenced David Attenborough's call to motivate children to save nature through first-hand experience.
Councillor Teo Benea, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning & Property, responded to the petition in the absence of Councillor Gwen Grahl, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People & Schools, thanking Thames21 for their work and acknowledging their decision to vacate the site on 31 July 2025. He noted the building's poor condition and the need to consider how the site can better serve the borough. Benea stated that the new post-16 Skills Centre planned for the site will include flexible space for community groups and facilities for environmental education, including a multi-use room, storage, a small kitchen, and outdoor access.
Councillor Mary Mitchell expressed the importance of providing opportunities for Brent children to engage with nature, while Councillor Paul Lorber highlighted the need for access for primary schools during school hours and suggested funding the project from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).
The council has committed to considering options for the WHEEC's future, balancing the need for environmental education with the development of the new Skills Centre.
