The London Borough of Hillingdon is located in West London, England.  The borough was established in 1965, bringing together the former Middlesex towns of Uxbridge, Hayes, Harlington, Ruislip, Northwood, Yiewsley and West Drayton.  Hillingdon was first inhabited in the 11^th century.  The area was used to keep livestock and farm crops, while nearby woodland provided foraging space for over a thousand pigs.  Wheat formed an important part of the economy and several mills were set up to make flour.  Hillingdon’s economy continued to rely on agriculture until the early 19^th century.  In 1831, local brickworks took on hundreds of employees to build the Grand Junction Canal.  The area became increasingly industrialised, aided by the opening of the railway in 1838.  The flower-growing industry flourished, with growers transporting their goods to London to be sold in the markets.  By the early 20^th century Hillingdon was home to the largest flower nursery in England.  Hillingdon grew rapidly in the 1900s, providing employment in its shops and government offices.  Despite its proximity to London, the borough remains relatively low-density.  A large part of Hillingdon is located on the Green Belt, and the area retains a number of parks and open spaces.