Hackney's parks and green spaces are set to see a significant reduction in glyphosate use and a boost in biodiversity, according to an update presented to the Skills, Place and Economy Scrutiny Commission. The Hackney Parks and Green Spaces Strategy, a ten-year plan running from 2021 to 2031, is now halfway through its implementation, with officers reporting good progress on its key commitments.
Significant strides have been made in environmental sustainability. The use of glyphosate has been drastically cut, now reserved solely for the treatment of invasive species. In fact, for a number of years, glyphosate has only been used for this purpose, and in 2025, the service used 0 litres of the chemical. The exception to this is with the treatment of Japanese Knotweed, particularly within communal housing areas and residents' own gardens, where a treatment programme is in place for over 50 properties, as well as a portfolio of Hackney's corporate properties. The Property Care Association, the UK's premier trade body for certifying specialist contractors, recommends glyphosate as the most sustainable method for eradicating this problematic weed.
Investment in battery-powered equipment is increasing, and efforts are underway to decarbonise park buildings. Millfields and Haggerston Park depots have already been refurbished with air source heat pumps for heating and hot water, and electric vehicle infrastructure has been installed. Clissold Park Depot is currently being rebuilt to meet the latest energy performance standards, featuring an air source heat pump and a solar array for power generation and storage. Depot refurbishment works are also due to commence at Hackney Downs and London Fields this autumn. As part of the National Lottery Heritage Fund restoration of Abney Park, a ground source heat pump has been installed for the new cafe and community space. The council is now working to produce Carbon Reduction Plans for 13 park and green space buildings, with prioritised emission-reduction actions to be delivered subject to funding.
Biodiversity is also being enhanced through initiatives such as wildflower meadow creation and the rewilding of the River Lea. To measure the success of these initiatives, the council is conducting biological recording. For example, projects on Hackney Marshes are recording data at the start and throughout their implementation. Similarly, Wildlife Gardens of Hackney, working on the river, are undertaking measurements to monitor the impact of their conservation efforts.
The council is actively engaging with the public and local community to inform them about these changes and gather feedback. This includes consultations on play area improvements, such as discussions about the name changes for Kit Crowley Gardens and Joe White Gardens, and co-design workshops for Shoreditch Park involving students from various schools and older people's groups. Residents have also participated in the Bug Hotel programme, with some requesting installations for their gardens. The Garden Competition, launched with the Resident Participation Team, encourages community involvement through social media, Hackney Today articles, and posters. For environmental sustainability, small nudge signs explaining what they are have been helpful
in identifying habitats created from deadwood and log piles. The council plans to expand this educational approach to meadows and other habitat creation projects, using signage and engagement with schools to explain their work to young people.
This strategy aims to ensure that Hackney's green spaces are maintained and enhanced for the benefit of all residents, contributing to a greener and more natural borough. Further details on the Hackney Parks and Green Spaces Strategy can be found in the Public reports pack.
