Hounslow Council is set to investigate unclear land ownership records across the borough, following concerns raised at a Housing and Environment Scrutiny Panel meeting. The investigation aims to address issues such as unregistered land, unclear land registry information for areas like Swift Alley, and difficulties in identifying landowners for unadopted alleyways and shared access areas.

The panel, which met on Monday, 10 November 2025, discussed the issue, building on an informal meeting held in September where members expressed surprise at the lack of readily available information on who owns land in Hounslow. The discussion included the suggestion that land ownership records should be easily accessible, including those for Transport for London (TfL) and NHS land. The lack of a clear system means cases often bounce between teams.

The move comes as the council grapples with challenges exacerbated by unclear land ownership, including fly-tipping and issues related to dockless e-bikes. The panel previously heard that there are around 100–120 fly-tipping cases on private land per month, and that it is very difficult to identify landowners, especially with unadopted alleyways and shared access areas. Land registry searches currently cost £33 each, and enforcement is difficult when ownership is unclear or changes hands.

Councillor Joanna Biddolph previously asked whether fly-tipping has increased since the Sterling Road Centre closed and since fortnightly collections began, and stated that communication around bin numbers is poor.

The panel heard that there is currently no clear system for land ownership, and cases bounce between teams. A central knowledge repository could help. Some cooperation exists with housing associations like Feltham, but this is inconsistent across the borough.

Councillor Emma Yates suggested that officers should be engaged, including the Performance team, to look at costs and gaps in the current system. The panel highlighted that clarity on costs is needed so funding bids can be explored, and that someone is required who can pledge budget to this.

The Housing and Environment Scrutiny Panel is scheduled to discuss next steps, visits, and a review of good practice.

Further information can be found in the Public Reports Pack for the meeting.