We are planting new trees around the estate to provide more shade and beauty for everyone enjoying the area. As well we are planting a corridor of bulbs on Fontwell Close and Thirsk Close. The project includes 22 new young trees across the estate, hedges on the north side of the park, a spiral of fruit trees, new play equipment and fallen tree log sculptures.

The pioneering project in Ealing brings together a range of our activities including tree planting, greening and food growing, with an aim to create long-lasting benefits for local residents.

Since January 2018, we've been working with Ealing Council and local residents to improve the green spaces on Racecourse Estate. Our aim is to create long-lasting benefits for local residents by improving green spaces and providing a range of volunteering activities.

The project is part of our Strategic Partnership with Ealing Council – running since 2016.

What’s happened so far?

Numerous consultation events have taken place with residents – taking in the views, wishes and needs of local people. 294 residents have taken part in surveys, meetings and interactive consultation activities.

So far, 196 standard trees, several hedgerows and 5000 spring flowers have been planted around the estate. Wildflower strips have been planted by Ealing Council.

513 local adults and 709 local children have already taken part in activities, including volunteers from the following:

• Northolt Library
• Northolt Fire Brigade
• 1st Northolt Scouts
• Welldon Park Primary School
• Petts Hill Primary School
• Children’s Centre
• Northolt Park Nursery and
• St Richard’s Nursery
• St Richard’s Church

What next?

Trees for Cities is delighted to have been awarded £226,615 in National Lottery funding in order to continue the great work on the estate. We are especially hoping to engage children, parents and carers across the estate. The funding comes from The National Lottery Community Fund, which distributes money raised by National Lottery players for good causes and is the largest community funder in the UK.

The project will now run until 2023 and see a whole host of greening activities take place around the estate, as decided on by the community! There will also be regular volunteering opportunities for people to get involved.