Hounslow Council moves to reopen Brentford Dock riverside path

Hounslow Council has taken a significant legal step to reopen a riverside path at Brentford Dock, which has been inaccessible to the public since 2021. The council has issued a legal order to officially add the perimeter path to the borough's public rights of way map. This order does not immediately grant public access but represents the first stage in a process to ensure the route becomes publicly available.

The council's action stems from an application made by the local resident group Brentford Walks. Following a detailed assessment of evidence, including historical records and information from the landowner, the council concluded that the perimeter route around Brentford Dock has been used by the public for many years and has consequently become a public right of way.

Scope of the Order

The legal order issued by Hounslow Council specifically applies only to the perimeter path at Brentford Dock. Insufficient evidence was provided to support claims for other routes that were included in the original application by Brentford Walks. Once confirmed, the order will precisely define the specific route over which the public is considered to have the right to walk.

Next Steps and Consultation

The matter will now enter a formal statutory consultation and publicity period, which will last for a minimum of 42 days. During this time, any interested party can submit representations or objections regarding the order. If no objections are received, the council is expected to confirm the order. However, if objections are submitted, the decision will be escalated and referred to the Secretary of State for a final determination.

Councillor Salman Shaheen, Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Public Realm at Hounslow Council, stated that the council believes the perimeter path around Brentford Dock should be recognised as a public right of way. He noted that the path had been largely gated off by the landowner in recent times.

Background to the Dispute

This development is part of a long-standing dispute over access at Brentford Dock. Gates were initially installed by Brentford Dock Ltd in 2020, with further gating added in 2024, citing private land status and increased anti-social behaviour. Campaigners from Brentford Walks have argued for decades that the riverside has been publicly accessible and have gathered evidence to support this claim.

Hounslow Council had previously considered an Article 4 Direction in January 2023 to remove permitted development rights for enclosures within Brentford Dock. However, this proposal was withdrawn due to legal and procedural issues, despite a mixed response from residents during its consultation period. The council is now satisfied that it has met the legal threshold to challenge the existing gates.

It is anticipated that Brentford Dock Ltd may challenge the council's proposals, which could lead to the final decision resting with the Secretary of State. Brentford Dock Ltd has been contacted for comment.

Residents wishing to participate in the public consultation and share their views can do so by emailing traffic@hounslow.gov.uk.