A small island in the centre of a pond on Hampstead Heath is set to be transformed
A small island in the centre of a pond on Hampstead Heath is set to be transformed into a dedicated wildlife sanctuary after £50,000 was fundraised to protect nesting species.
The peninsula in the Model Boating Pond, just north of the Men’s Bathing Pond, is linked to the shore by a small patch of causeway, but this land will soon be removed under plans unveiled by The City of London Corporation which manages the Heath.
Once done, the peninsula will become an isolated, island wildlife haven – cut off from visitors and their pets – allowing wetland birds, amphibians, and reptiles to live in a habitat with 100 square metres of new reedbeds plus wildflower plants .
Temporary fencing will protect sensitive areas while these habitats slowly come to life.
Alderman Gregory Jones KC, chairman of the committee which cares for the pond, said: “This important project will create a peaceful sanctuary for wetland birds, right in the heart of Hampstead Heath.
“By removing the causeway, we’re giving species like mallard, coot, grebe, and swan a safe space to feed, rest, and nest – free from human disturbance. It’s a place they already use, and soon they’ll have it all to themselves.
“We’re also planting new reedbed habitat, supporting nationally important ecosystems that enhance biodiversity and add to the Heath’s natural beauty. As they grow, the reeds will absorb carbon dioxide from the air and store it in their stems, roots, and surrounding soils, locking carbon away naturally over time.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported this project. Your generosity is helping our charity protect and enhance the Heath’s remarkable biodiversity. I also want to thank our staff, whose hard work, time, and commitment go a long way in bringing these projects to life.”
The island as it appears today was created during essential flood management works in 2016, and quickly became home to nesting coots, moorhens, grebes and herons.
Hampstead Heath is one of the capital’s most loved open spaces, attracting over 10 million visits a year. It is home to over 800 species of flora and fauna and forms part of a network of 11,000 acres of open space protected by the City Corporation across London and southeast England.
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