Owned by the Ministry of Defence, the land has a rich history, initially owned by the Crown and used as common land for locals before being transferred by an Act of Parliament circa 1800 to the military for artillery practice for the nearby Barracks and Military Academy. It is currently maintained by the MoD, but largely given over to public use and is a haven for a variety of flora and fauna, including rare acid grassland and areas of wilderness in an otherwise urban environment. It is a great space to dog walk, exercise and enjoy a wild space in Woolwich.