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Two weeks left for you to have your say on the future of Welsh Harp Reservoir

We're working with a group of local partner organisations to create a Joint Vision for the future of the Welsh Harp Reservoir.

View across Brent (Welsh Harp) reservoir

The Welsh Harp Strategy Group is now inviting members of the public to share their views until 22 October, in a quick and simple online form, to gather ideas for what people love about their reservoir, what their concerns are, and their ideas for how it should change in the future.

A Site of Special Scientific Interest

Welsh Harp Reservoir is an important wildlife site in West London and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for wetland birds who visit and nest at the reservoir each spring. It is also an important community asset which is popular for walking, boating, and taking time out from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Funded by the London Borough of Barnet and the GLA, the Joint Vision will reflect local views on how the Welsh Harp can be improved, what local people would like to see the Welsh Harp become and possible sources of funding to make the changes.

A Joint Vision

The Welsh Harp Joint Vision process has been accelerated following recent public campaigns to resolve the littering, fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour problems that have sadly developed in the area. The extent of submerged debris that has been washed into the reservoir became apparent when water levels were lowered during important maintenance works earlier this year. Many volunteers from the community gave their time to help clean up the Welsh Harp.

The ‘Joint Vision', to be published by the end of 2021, will include an action plan for improvements and identify the possible funding opportunities available to deliver them. It will reflect the shared aspiration within the community for the reservoir to be a peaceful and picturesque spot where people feel welcome.

Ros Daniels, ourdirector for London & South East, said: “Canal & River Trust is pleased to be working with our partners on the joint vision for the reservoir and are grateful to those in the community who, earlier this year, stepped forward to help start the process of making improvements. I'd urge those who know and love the site to take part in the consultation process and help secure a future for a reservoir people can enjoy for years to come.”

The online form can be accessed until 22 October. Members of the group are the Trust, London Boroughs of Brent, and Barnet, the GLA, Thames21, London Wildlife Trust, the Environment Agency, and Natural England

Kingfisher in flight with small fish in its beak

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Last Edited: 12 October 2021

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