Ambitious new proposals for Hampstead Heath could see the introduction of a padel court and the creation of up to eleven new small ponds, as part of a major five-year strategy to enhance the iconic green space.
Draft Plan Unveils Over 70 Potential Actions
The City of London Corporation, which manages the Heath as a registered charity, has published an updated draft business plan covering the financial years from 2026/27 until 2030/31. The comprehensive document lists more than seventy potential actions, with a current focus on the first two years of the programme.
The draft plan is scheduled for discussion at the Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee next week and is expected to receive final approval in early February. It forms part of the rolling updates to the Corporation's business plans for its green spaces, which also include Highgate Wood and Epping Forest.
Boosting Ecology and Managing Flood Risk
A significant ecological focus of the plan involves water management and habitat creation. The Corporation is proposing to construct up to 70 leaky dams on streams to slow water flow and approximately 11 new small ponds, each no larger than 40 square metres.
Alderman Gregory Jones KC, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park Committee, explained the rationale. "We are looking at introducing a series of small, carefully positioned ponds along existing streams, designed to slow down water flow, manage flood risk and support wildlife," he said. "The ponds are in response to recommendations in the City Corporation’s Climate Action Strategy, to strengthen the Heath’s resilience to future climate impacts."
Other conservation actions include continuing the 'Sheep on the Heath' grazing initiative and reviewing research into pesticides from dogs in the swimming ponds.
New Facilities and Visitor Experience
In response to growing sporting trends, the Corporation will conduct a feasibility study into installing a padel or pickleball court on the Heath. Alderman Jones noted this was "in response to the growing popularity of this sport and as a way of benefitting the health of Heath users."
Plans for the famous bathing ponds include re-landscaping the Mixed Pond and assessing its seasonal use, plus improvements to the outdoor space at the Ladies’ Pond. The Corporation will also explore additional revenue streams, such as hosting corporate events and facilitating filming.
Separately, work will begin early this year to remove a land causeway at the Model Boating Pond to create a wildlife island for birds, a project supported by local groups.
Community Support and Funding
Professor Jeff Waage, a Trustee of the Heath and Hampstead Society, confirmed the group's support for the draft plan, stating it will "improve the Heath as a resource for both people and wildlife."
He highlighted the Society's involvement in co-developing several proposed activities, including the wildlife island and hedgehog research. Professor Waage also acknowledged that many of the plan's aspirational activities lack current funding and that the Corporation will be seeking external financial support, with local groups offering their assistance.
If approved, the 2026-31 business plan will set a clear direction for enhancing one of London's most beloved natural landscapes, balancing conservation, climate resilience, and community enjoyment.
