61-acre nature reserve to be “de-wilded”
London’s “largest breeding ground for endangered species and fauna” is set to be “de-wilded” following development plans.
Ealing Council has announced plans to convert Warren Farm Nature Reserve back into eight football pitches and renovate derelict, asbestos-filled facility buildings.
More than 22,000 campaigners have spoken out against the development, by signing a petition, though, fearing it would “destroy” the nature and wildlife. A petition has been set up, calling for the site to receive Local Nature Reserve status.
The 61-acre grounds, originally a sporting facility, underwent a rewilding project and is now home to several endangered species, including the skylark, barn owls and rare clovers.
Steve Toft from Brent River Trust, one of the campaigners, told LondonWorld: “This is one of the most ecologically important sites in London. Developing anything on here would be a bad idea, let alone taking half of it.”
The council plans to reserve a patch of protected pasture for the local wildlife.
An Ealing Council spokesperson says: “Nothing is yet set in stone, and we have commissioned detailed nature and ecology surveys to help inform the next steps of this project. We will continue to work with local groups and community stakeholders as we make this a reality.”