Commons Conservators Welcome Big Give Appeal Success
£16,900 raised for path restoration on Putney Heath
The Conservators are responsible for Putney and Wimbledon Commons. Picture: WPCC
December 26, 2025
Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators (WPCC) has announced that their recent Big Give Christmas Challenge has exceeded expectations, raising £16,900 to support essential path restoration on Putney Heath. The successful campaign marks a significant step toward improving some of the Commons’ most heavily used routes, many of which require urgent work to ensure safer access and protect sensitive habitats.
The fundraising drive focused on restoring priority paths, including Scio Ride, a key route linking Roehampton to the wider Commons. Restoring this path alone is expected to cost around £25,000, and while match funding through the Big Give has now closed, WPCC points out that regular donations can still be accepted. Every additional contribution will directly support further improvements, enabling more sections of path to be repaired.
WPCC said the generosity shown by supporters means restoration work can begin next year, helping to address long-standing erosion issues and enhance the resilience of the Heath’s landscape. The charity emphasised that improved paths not only benefit thousands of regular visitors but also play a vital role in safeguarding the Commons’ ecological value.
Alongside the fundraising success, the Home Office has confirmed the appointment of Christian Hansmeyer as Conservator for a three-year term under the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Act 1871. A Wimbledon resident since 2018, Mr Hansmeyer brings more than two decades of experience in sustainability, finance and governance, including senior roles at Greater Pacific Capital and the F4G Foundation.
He said he was honoured to take on the role and looked forward to helping safeguard the Commons’ natural character and biodiversity for future generations.
The Ministry of Defence has also reappointed Peter Shortt for a second three-year term. Mr Shortt, who has served since 2022, will continue as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, providing continuity and oversight of WPCC’s governance framework.
WPCC has published its Annual Conservation Report for 2024/25, detailing extensive habitat management across the Commons. Highlights include:
- Management of over 11 hectares of heathland, including bracken control and firebreak maintenance
- Planting of seven rare black poplar trees on Putney Lower Common
- Removal of invasive Tree of Heaven to prevent further spread
- Ongoing work along the Beverley Brook to manage invasive species
- Improvements to woodland rides to enhance access, visibility and habitat quality
Volunteer contributions continued to play a central role in maintaining the Commons’ landscape and supporting biodiversity.
The Wildlife and Environment Annual Monitoring Report 2024, compiled by Conservation Ranger Sarah Murton, has also been released. The report brings together species and habitat survey data and demonstrates how monitoring informs delivery of the Land Management Plan. WPCC expressed gratitude to staff, volunteers and members of the public who submitted wildlife records throughout the year.
The WPCC was established under the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Act of 1871. The Commons comprise some 1,140 acres across Wimbledon Common, Putney Heath and Putney Lower Common.
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