12/06/2026
Wildlife Ponds Update:
During the last heatwave, the Heath experienced exceptionally high visitor numbers. This placed pressure on our team, safety, and wildlife.
Swimming in non-lifeguarded ponds is absolutely prohibited. These ponds are essential habitats for wildlife, and swimming in them is a direct threat to their wellbeing.
We have received a high volume of messages of concern, and see how many of you care for the protection of the Heath, as we do.
That is why we are hiring and placing additional staff at the wildlife ponds when busy times are anticipated, such as during heatwaves. They will be there to help educate visitors and prevent people from entering non-designated swimming ponds.
But we need your help. We are all visitors to the Heath; this green space is the wildlife's home first.
Please:
🍃Read and abide by the signs - they are there for your safety and the health of the environment.
🍃Listen and respect our team and security. Threats and abuse towards our staff will not be tolerated.
🍃Maintain a respectful online community for our team members that read your messages. We monitor all comments but can't reply to each one individually - we're often out on the Heath rather than at a desk.
If you see someone breaking our byelaws, contact Constabulary on 020 8340 5260.
If it is an emergency, ring 999.
