Local partners paving the way to restore our green spaces

This International Day for Biodiversity, we are highlighting local groups across the borough coming together to creating harmony with nature and sustainable development in Richmond upon Thames.

We’re pleased to share our work with the Crane Valley Partnership. Their efforts have brought new life to Willow Way - enhancing biodiversity, supporting sustainable development, and creating spaces where nature and people can thrive together. 

The Crane Valley Partnership 

Crane Valley Partnership has been key to the restoration of the River Crane and its surroundings. It brings together local volunteers, schools, conservation charities, water companies, landowners and governmental organisations including the Environment Agency and Local Authorities to tackle environmental challenges facing the Crane Valley. The Partnership work together to continuously improve the environment for both people and wildlife.  

Willow Way transformation 

A shining example of our partnership with the Crane Valley Partnership is the decade-long transformation of Willow Way, a once forgotten linear nature conservation site abutting the southern bank of the River Crane between Hospital Bridge Road and Great Chertsey Road.

Back in 2013, the site was burdened with fly-tipping, dense overgrowth, and anti-social behaviour. We made a significant investment into the initial clearing of the site, removing large amounts of waste, cutting back dense bramble which had succeeded the meadow habitat and installing a 2.4m high weld-mesh panel fence to prevent further fly-tipping.

Following our major clean-up, the site has been revitalised through the efforts of Friends of the River Crane Environment (FORCE) and other local volunteer organisations, including The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) and Lets Go Outside and Learn (LGOAL). The local groups have planted native hedgerows, removed invasive species, and restored meadow grassland - now managed with traditional horse-drawn hay cutting, offering a unique glimpse into Britain’s rural heritage.

The most recent phase of restoration at Willow Way focused on enhancing the meadow’s biodiversity. TCV and FORCE volunteers prepared the ground, sowed wildflower seeds, trimmed hedgerows to encourage healthy growth, and planted new trees - including species that support native wildlife like the brimstone butterfly.

The case of Willow Way is a poignant reminder of the value, not only of the end-result, but in the process of nature and greenspace restoration to our local communities and the well-being of our residents.  

Supporting local biodiversity 

Whether you're a seasoned wildlife observer or just happen to spot something interesting on a walk, your sightings matter! Submit any species records to Greenspace Information for Greater London CIC (GiGL).

GiGL is London’s environmental records centre. They mobilise, curate and share data that underpin their knowledge of London’s natural environment. Your records will help protect and improve biodiversity and geodiversity in London and beyond. Data may be used to inform planning decisions, target surveys and resources or assist local groups and organisations.

Submit your records to Greenspace Information for Greater London CIC.

Find out more about volunteering in parks.