Got questions? Find out more by reading the FAQs below, or by emailing us.
Why is the project happening?
Abney Park is much loved by the local community, but unfortunately, some elements have fallen into disrepair in recent years.
The Chapel has been on Historic England’s ‘At Risk’ register for many years and was without a floor, heating or electricity.
The Church Street entrance was not accessible to people with buggies or wheelchair users, and the old classroom suffered from leaks and rodent infestations.
In addition, many people do not feel comfortable visiting the site due to low levels of antisocial behaviour and concerns around navigating through it.
What’s being built?
The restoration project is focused on three main areas:
making a new accessible entrance at Stoke Newington Church Street
restoring the chapel to enable it to be used for community events, concerts, wedding ceremonies and many other events
upgrading the facilities at Stoke Newington High Street, providing new buildings to provide learning space, a base for volunteers, a new cafe, and public toilets
Who are we working with?
The project is led by Hackney Council, which owns the land. The council manages and is responsible for the site, and raised the money for the works. The Abney Park Trust will be running a programme of events and workshops post-restoration, and works to champion the park and restoration project in the community.
Following a competitive tender process, the Council have appointed Artelia as project manager to lead on the project with support from council staff.
The project is further supported by Historic England, the National Heritage Lottery Fund, London Wildlife Trust, the Abney Park User Group and Abney Unearthed, among others.
Hackney Council have appointed Quinn Construction Ltd. to undertake the physical improvements on site.
Will there be any disruption?
Certain areas of the park will be fenced off at different times to ensure compliance with health and safety guidelines.
The park will remain open to the public with one of the two entrances open at all times.
We’ll let you know in advance if we’re closing any entrances (or if there will be limited access to certain areas) on this website, on Twitter and with notices at the entrances.
When is the project starting and finishing?
The restoration project started 6th September 2021, and is due to be completed in 2023.
Are the Abney Park Trust still on site?
Yes. The Abney Park Trust office is now closed for the duration of the project, but we’ll still be running volunteering activities and events.