Cranford Park renovation works well underway

The first phase of the improvements at Cranford Park completed in September, with the next stage of the works well underway.

Construction on the site began back in May as part of a project to turn the landmark site into a lasting visitor attraction for future generations.

During the first phase of works, the old cellars were cleared of rubble and the vaulted roof reinforced to guard against damage from construction above.

Foundations have now been laid, and the steel frame erected, for the cafe and the staircase to the cellars has been constructed. Once complete, this will house information boards, audio and film, detailing Cranford Park's rich and unique history. 

The new cafe will provide warm welcome to all residents and visitors, with the council due to select an operator to run it in the coming months.

In October, vegetation and scrub were removed from the riverbanks to facilitate access for the new electricity supply and ecologists oversaw the works to protect the park's reptiles and badgers.

Works to repair the roof of the stables are also underway, now that the bat roosting season is over. This includes treating and repairing the timber beams and panelling and reinstating the ceilings.

Repair and repointing works to the front of the stables have also recently finished, as well as work on the 'ha-ha' - one of the park's key landscaping features. This sunken trench historically acted as a boundary to the park, without interrupting the view.

There have also been repairs to the kitchen garden wall, and several of the park's entrance walls.

Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Property, Highways and Transport, said: "Works are progressing well at Cranford Park and the project is really beginning to take shape.

"I'm looking forward to next spring and being able to welcome residents and visitors to this wonderful attraction."

Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Highways, the overall budget for the scheme is approximately £4 million and the works are due to finish in spring 2023.

For more information about Cranford Park visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/cranfordpark