It is home to the last remaining Grey Box gum trees (Eucalyptus microcarpa) on the Adelaide plains, some of which pre-date European settlement.

The park takes its name from the place of birth of William Haslam, the property's last private owner; Heywood in Lancashire, England.

Some community members have raised concerns about the tree removals' impact on the park's amenity, wildlife habitat value and cultural significance to the Kaurna people of the Adelaide plains.

"[5] In 2003, "staunch public opposition" prevented the introduction of native understorey plants which were proposed to improve the health of long established trees, some of which were showing signs of stress.

[8] The significant trees marked for removal include two SA Blue Gum (Eucalyptus leucoxylon) which are in Fair and Good-Fair health according to the council-engaged arborist's assessment.