This week, The Royal Parks is holding public information sessions and guided walks to discuss possible improvements to the Isabella Plantation, the 40-acre woodland garden in the heart of Richmond Park.

The plans are designed to make the Plantation accessible to all visitors and could include: upgrades to the existing path network, improved entrance gates and signage; visitor facilities such as shelter, seating and new toilets; environmental and ecological projects, including de-silting ponds and a new water irrigation system; and community activities such as walks, talks and volunteer schemes.

Simon Richards, Park Manager of Richmond Park said: "We're really keen to make the Plantation more accessible to all our visitors, whilst retaining its unique character. Having developed these initial plans in partnership with a number of community groups we're now seeking feedback and want to hear what people think."

Media enquiries:

Katy Murray on 0300 061 2128 or kmurray@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk

Notes to Editors

For further information, please see: www.royalparks.org.uk/isabella

Information sessions and guided walks will be held as follows:
Friday 25 June, 12 noon-4pm
Disabled Persons' Car Park, Isabella Plantation

Saturday 26 June, 12 noon-4pm,
Broomfield Hill Gate, Isabella Plantation

In addition, feedback is always welcome via: www.royalparks.org.uk/isabella

Or telephone: 020 8948 3209

Or write to: Isabella Project, Public Affairs, The Royal Parks, The Old Police House, Hyde Park, London W2 2UH.

Funding for improvements to the Isabella Plantation is now being sought.

About Richmond Park:

• Richmond Park, at 1,000 hectares (2,500 acres), is the largest Royal Park in London and is home to around 650 free roaming deer. The pastoral landscape of hills, woodlands, ponds, gardens and grasslands set amongst ancient trees offers a peaceful respite to visitors.
• The Park is designated as a National Nature Reserve (NNR), a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

About The Royal Parks:

• The Royal Parks is an executive agency of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The Royal Parks are: Bushy Park, The Green Park, Greenwich Park, Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, The Regent's Park and Primrose Hill, Richmond Park and St James's Park.
• For further information please visit: www.royalparks.org.uk