Hillingdon Outdoor Activity Centre 

Carbon-Neutral Outdoor Activity Centre Enhancing Community Access and Biodiversity

The London Borough of Hillingdon Council appointed SPACE&PLACE (S&P) to oversee the relocation of the Hillingdon Outdoor Activity Centre (HOAC). The construction of the HS2 railway line required this move. As a result, HOAC continues to play an essential role by offering diverse outdoor activities, including sailing, windsurfing, rowing, camping, high ropes, and zip wires, for local communities, schools, and disability groups.

The new location at Denham Quarry lies within the Metropolitan Green Belt.The partially restored sand and gravel quarry lies next to the River Colne. S&P’s approach to development focussed on creating a carbon-neutral outdoor activity centre, powered entirely by renewable energy. Solar PV panels were extensively installed across the site, generating surplus electricity that is fed back into the national grid. This surplus revenue helps to lower costs for low-income users. 

We prioritized environmental stewardship. To enhance water depth for sailing, we dredged areas of the existing lake. We reclaimed land for development while preserving natural habitats. We created new islands and floating reed beds to boost biodiversity, providing shelter for wildlife and habitats for fish.We used lightweight, demountable modular buildings and portable storage units to minimize ground impact, and we repurposed existing structures, such as the farmhouse.

To address fire risk concerns, plans include building an external secure storage facility for electric scooters and bikes, along with charging points.. The project is advancing into detailed design stages, incorporating feedback from fire engineers and manufacturers. This development not only preserves the site’s ecological significance but also enhances its recreational value for future generations, fostering community engagement and wellbeing. 

Results

Sustainable Innovation: 

This carbon-neutral development uses electrical energy generated entirely from extensive solar PV panels. It sells surplus energy back to the national grid, which helps subsidize facility costs for low-income users. To protect the environment, we minimize land disturbance by dredging lake areas for land reclamation. We create new islands and floating reed beds to enhance biodiversity, and we establish underwater planting beds to attract new species.

Environmental Significance: 

• The site is part of the Mid-Colne Valley SSSI, known for breeding woodland and wetland birds, and wintering wildfowl. 
• It is located within Colne Valley Regional Park and is designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).
• Ancient Woodland is present in the southwest corner of the site. 

Project Objectives: 

• Environmental Sensitivity: We balance development with conservation, minimizing both visual and environmental impacts.
• Social Benefits: The project aims to expand outdoor activity offerings, especially for disadvantaged children in Hillingdon and Greater London.

October 2022