Residents to grow food on 'unloved' public land

"With this policy, the whole borough can be a garden, allowing residents to take over unloved land to grow food and flowers and allowing people of all ages to learn about and care for the environment by getting their hands dirty."

"The pandemic taught everyone, all at once, the value of green space, for our physical and mental health, and for learning about nature, biodiversity and sustainability. Sadly, many people living in flats do not have gardens to call their own, while unused land goes to waste, attracting fly-tipping and antisocial behaviour."

Hounslow Council has introduced the Right to Grow initiative, enabling residents to grow food and flowers on unused public land. The scheme aims to reduce bureaucracy while promoting environmental connection, civic pride, and community engagement. Residents must obtain permission to ensure land suitability and safety, with cultivation restricted to unused wasteland rather than maintained parks. The council expects benefits including reduced fly-tipping, decreased antisocial behaviour, and improved public health through physical activity and access to fresh produce. The pandemic highlighted the importance of green spaces for mental and physical wellbeing, particularly for flat-dwelling residents lacking private gardens. The initiative also addresses rising obesity rates while promoting biodiversity and sustainability education.

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