IMPROVED leisure centres and public spaces, as well as support for volunteers, is promised by Hillingdon Council thanks to £1.3m from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
In Hayes, the money is being used to work on the area around Hayes station and in West Drayton a rooftop artificial football pitch as part of the new Platinum Jubilee Leisure Centre.
Additionally, children's play areas in Cranford Park, Stockley Recreation Ground, Fassnidge Park and Ruislip Lido have been upgraded, with the latest equipment.
In Cranford Park, wooden equipment was used to match the woodland setting.
Similar improvements to Shenley Park in Ruislip Manor and Hayes End Community Park are set for completion by March.
To enhance the borough's green spaces, new wildflower meadows have been sowed and the tree-planting programme bolstered, with more than 700 young trees planted.
The fund has also supported volunteers, including the Woodlarks and Waders group which helps look after Highgrove Woods in Eastcote and nearby waterways.
Jess Lee, of the Woodlarks and Waders, says their work gives them a tremendous buzz.
She added: "This funding is not just paying for a rake, or a pruning saw or a pair of gloves. It is providing the magic wand that puts a little sparkle into everybody's lives."
Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth, said: "The wide range of initiatives delivered during the past year is helping to ensure our borough remains green, pleasant and a brilliant place to live."
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