Hounslow, Ealing Mayors attend nature reserve's anniversary

Gunnersbury Triangle celebrated its 30th birthday last Sunday (March 1), when volunteers, local politicians and special guests met to toast thirty years of Chiswick's nature reserve.

(The Mayors of Ealing and Hounslow with Southfield councillors)

The Mayors of Hounslow and Ealing, Councillors Corinna Smar and Tej Ram Bagha joined with staff and volunteers from London Wildlife Trust (LWT) to celebrate the Triangle. The LWT has managed the site since 1985, which includes a wide range of wildlife.

Gunnersbury Triangle was saved from development in 1983 when, for the first time in Britain, a public inquiry ruled that planned urban development could not go ahead because of the site’s value for nature, and its importance to local people.

(What party would be complete without a cake?)

Mayor of Hounslow Councillor Corinna Smart said: “Gunnersbury Triangle is only here today because of the hard work of local campaigners who convinced a court that nature matters. Some of those original volunteers continue to play an active role in managing the site, ensuring that future generations can enjoy this tranquil, special and fantastic place.”

Jan Hewlett, one of the original volunteers and secretary of the Chiswick Wildlife Group, added: “When we started out on this project 30 years ago, it was quite hard to imagine how it might evolve in the future. So it is great to see the same spirit of enthusiasm from the local community and new younger volunteers keeping up the good work in their own way for today's visitors.”

(Some light showers did little to dampen spirits)

Andy Willmore, West London Regional Development Manager with London Wildlife Trust added: “It was great to see so many of those who were originally involved in the fight to protect the reserve, many of whom are still involved today, being joined by both local Mayors in celebrating this anniversary. We are proud of the long lasting partnership between dedicated volunteers and the Trust that has turned the Triangle into the fantastic haven for wildlife and people that it is today.”

London Wildlife Trust is planning an event in August to celebrate the opening of Gunnersbury Triangle with a wider audience. The Triangle is free to visit and can be found opposite Chiswick Park tube station.

April 2, 2015