Community Update – Hampstead Heath Wildlife Pond

Community Update – Hampstead Heath Wildlife Pond

Dear Hampstead Town Residents,

We are aware of recent incidents circulating online showing individuals swimming in the wildlife pond on Hampstead Heath. This behaviour has taken place despite clear signage stating that swimming is strictly prohibited.

We understand the concern this has caused locally, particularly in relation to the disturbance of wildlife and the impact on this protected conservation area 🦢🌿

The wildlife pond plays an important role in supporting a wide range of species. Entering the water can cause harm by:

Disturbing nesting birds during breeding season 🐦

Damaging fragile aquatic plants and habitats 🌱

Stressing or displacing wildlife such as amphibians, fish and insects 🐸

Introducing pollution that affects water quality and the wider ecosystem 💧

Officers from Hampstead Town Safer Neighbourhood Team will be working alongside Highgate Safer Neighbourhood Team and Hampstead Heath Constabulary to:

Deter further incidents through patrols

Engage with visitors and educate on the importance of protecting this area

Support enforcement of byelaws where necessary

We will also continue to raise awareness within the community about the sensitivity of the wildlife pond and why these areas must be respected.

We encourage all visitors to:

Follow signage across the Heath

Use designated swimming ponds only

Report antisocial behaviour via 101, or 999 in an emergency

Thank you for your continued support in helping us protect Hampstead Heath for both the community and its wildlife.

Hampstead Town & Highgate Safer Neighbourhoods Team

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Message Sent By
Abdul Majid Catubig
(Metropolitan Police Service, Police Community Support Officer, Hampstead Town)