Following last year’s launch of the Southall Grand Union Canal Wellbeing Way project which aims to improve well being for locals as well as biodiversity, Ealing Council and its partners have announced updates to the project.
Launched in July 2022, the project sees a number of organisations Canal & River Trust, Ealing Council and its Let’s Go Southall programme, and housing association Catalyst working together to get Southall residents involved and engaged to improve their well being as well as making the area better for nature.
The Southall Wellbeing Way will connect Spikes Bridge Park on the Grand Union Canal Paddington Arm to Glade Lane Canalside Park and the Hanwell Lock Flight. The route will also link Southall Recreation Ground, Bixley Field, Havelock Canalside space and Norwood Top Lock.
In an update, Ealing Council said that as part of the works, surface water will be diverted from a pipe into a new winding water channel which will connect into ponds and wetlands to reduce flooding in wet weather and provide a home to a variety of wildlife.
This diversion will also help to reduce pollution by removing any pollutants before they enter the sewer system and eventually the River Brent.
The improvements will be completed in the autumn.
Councillor Peter Mason, leader of the council said: “The improvements to Glade Lane Canalside Park are part of our commitment to secure the future of our beautiful green spaces. From the autumn people in Southall will have easier and quicker access to nature on their doorstep, whether they are getting on a bike or going for a walk.”
Councillor Deirdre Costigan, deputy leader and cabinet member for climate action said: “We want to protect residents from some of the results of climate change, such as increased wet weather and flooding, so at Glade Lane we are building seasonal ponds that will soak up flood water, as well as helping deliver on our promise to re-wild our borough.”
Councillor Costigan added: “This project will protect and enhance our biodiversity, reduce pollution and flood risk in the area and make the park more enjoyable for residents. We can’t wait to welcome you to the improved Glade Lane Canalside Park really soon.”
