Hounslow Council Allocates £1.5 Million 'Pride in Place' Fund for Green Space and Community Facility Improvements

Hounslow Council is set to enhance its green spaces and community facilities through a series of funded projects, following discussions at the Heston and Cranford Area Forum. The Pride in Place impact fund, a £1.5 million allocation from central government, is supporting several initiatives aimed at neighbourhood investment.

The 'Pride in Place' fund was allocated by central government based on deprivation indicators and community needs across the UK. Hounslow received £1.5 million from this fund. Projects were then identified through community needs and existing council programmes, with approximately 80% of the projects being in equal opportunity areas and 80% originating from community programs or previously funded projects that were paused due to funding challenges.

Among the projects receiving funding are outdoor seating for Heston Community Hub and Library (£5,000), and the development of an inclusive playground at Brabazon Road Playground with £150,000. The Way Avenue Allotment will benefit from funding for a compostable toilet, improving accessibility for elderly residents and enabling wider activities.

Cranford Parade will see greening improvements, potentially including cycle hangers, seating, and planting, in partnership with Transport for London. These improvements are intended to make the area more attractive and welcoming, with a quick turnaround expected, aiming for completion by March of the following year.

Further action plan updates included progress on Heston Farm Estate Playground Improvements, with completion expected by April 2027, and Avenue Park Improvements. The latter is receiving additional funding of £416,759 from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and the Environment Agency. These enhancements will include improving the river corridor, creating better habitats for wildlife, and supporting a program of volunteer conservation activities. These aims to benefit the local ecosystem by improving wildlife habitats and will benefit residents through increased opportunities to enjoy the park and engage in conservation activities. The Brabazon Estate Children's Playground project is also moving forward, with resident consultations planned.

The next Heston and Cranford Area Forum meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 12 November 2026. More information on the forum's proceedings can be found in the Public reports pack.