London,
07
August
2015
|
10:21
Europe/London

Celebrating the reopening of Camden’s ‘hidden’ park

Alexandra Road Park, the hidden green space at the centre of the Alexandra and Ainsworth estate in South Hampstead, has just reopened after a £1.5million restoration.

The restoration project, which aims to keep the unique features of the park intact while bringing it into the twenty-first century, has produced a stunningly beautiful park to appeal to visitors of all ages.

Designed by estate architect Neave Brown with Janet Jack as landscape architect in the 1970s, the park provides a unique modernist landscape that is innovative in allowing children, adults and older people to explore a range of different environments, from sheltered play areas to grassy banks and tranquil corners.

Cllr Meric Apak, Cabinet Member for Sustainability and Environment
“This restoration of the park is sympathetic to the original design whilst now offering three bespoke playgrounds for children of different ages, a ball game playground, several grassy picnic areas, a woodland walk and a stage where events can be held. 

"It is inspiring to see the results of what could only have been achieved through grass roots efforts, and we hope this fantastic restoration will encourage more people of all ages to visit and enjoy what the park has to offer"
Cllr Meric Apak, Cabinet Member for Sustainability and Environment

Sara Bell, Secretary of the Alexandra and Ainsworth tenants’ and residents’ association said:“We’re so delighted to see the park back to its best and open to everyone again. The project has taken five years from when we made the initial bid for funding, so for us this is a really exciting time. We’re running events all summer and there are opportunities for local people to get involved in gardening projects. Do come and visit!”

Although situated within the estate, the park is open to the public.

The £1.5 million restoration of Alexandra Road Park was supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund. The project was a joint initiative between the Alexandra and Ainsworth Tenants’ and Residents’ Association, the Friends of Alexandra Road Park and Camden Council. Over the next three years there will be activities and events in the park. Details will be available on www.lovecamden.org