Residents in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, are being asked to help decide the future of the local nature reserve as part of a major restoration project. The public feedback period, which launched on 16 January 2026, allows people to share their thoughts on how the 41-hectare site should be managed and improved.
The project is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and aims to protect the area around Bury Lake and Batchworth Lake. This follows earlier work at the park, including the installation of a new pedestrian bridge in early 2025 designed to improve access for walkers and cyclists.
Three Rivers District Council is now seeking feedback on the design of a new woodland path; outline design work for the path is expected to be completed by March 2026, with physical works to follow subject to funding, permits and further consultation. Officials are also asking for views on how to balance recreational use — including measures affecting dog walking — with protecting local birds and other wildlife from disturbance.
Community Engagement Officer Marcus Day and Cllr Chris Lloyd, Lead Member for Leisure, are encouraging visitors to use the Have Your Say Three Rivers website or to add ideas to the boards placed within the park. According to Batchworth Community Council and the project materials, information gathered through these sessions will inform the final design work for the reserve, which the project dossier estimates attracts more than 500,000 visits each year.
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