The overflow section of the Diana Fountain car park in Bushy Park is to be closed down and returned to parkland as part of a 'rewilding' programme undertaken by the Royal Parks.

Both the Diana Fountain car park and the Pheasantry car park have been busier than ever, especially during the lockdown, as local residents and visitors made the most of the local amenities as well as ensuring regular exercise for ramblers, cyclists and dog walkers.

According to the Royal Parks the overflow area is a 'rough, unsealed surface that could pose a health and safety risk.'

The charity which looks after Bushy Park is committed to reclaiming green space where possible and this 'rewilding' represents an extra 930 square metres which will be available for visitors walks and picnics.

The overflow car park can only hold only 40 cars while the main car park can accommodate 257 cars and 6 blue badge spaces.

It was full to capacity in the summer months, especially with the route through the park blocked half way through to limit traffic.

A spokesperson for the Royal Parks told Teddington Nub News: "We will allow the area to grow naturally to boost biodiversity and create a new area of acid grassland, a nationally important habitat for which Bushy Park is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest."

To learn more about Bushy Park and the wildlife and history go to [L]https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/bushy-park[L+]www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/bushy-park[.L

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