Abney Park Trust joins the Mayor of Hackney to mark the start of historic renovation
From left to right: Zach Young, Trust Co-ordinator, Abney Park Trust; Tom Walker, Chair; Nick Toner, Deputy Chair; Cllr. Susan Fajana Thomas, trustee; Lorraine Tillett from the Abney Park User Group.
The Abney Park Trust, which works to protect the heritage and biodiversity of Stoke Newington’s magical urban woodland and cemetery, joined Mayor of Hackney Philip Glanville this month to mark the commencement of the historic renovation works.
The works are now underway, with current work focusing on removing flagstones at the forecourt by the High Street entrance to the Park, as well as the arrival of portakabins for contractors and staff.
Members of the Trust’s board of voluntary trustees joined the Mayor and the Hackney Council Cabinet member for Parks, Councillor Caroline Woodley, at an on-site ceremony in October.
Also present were representatives from Quinn London, whose heritage division will be the lead contractor on the works; from Kaner Olette Architects, which designed the plans for the restorations; from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which is funding the works; and from Historic England.
The Trust’s range of exciting events and volunteering programmes will continue during the works. Park users can find out more at abneypark.org.
An historic and exciting moment for Abney Park
The works at the Magnificent Seven cemetery and nature reserve will see the historic chapel at the centre of the park be restored and kitted out for use as a performance venue.
New community, cafe and classroom buildings will be built near the High Street entrance, along with a biodiverse roof.
Workshops for use by community craftspeople and other organisations will be built. And the Church Street entrance will be made accessible.
The unique and magical charm of the Park will be preserved throughout the works and beyond.
The £5m project is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, The National Lottery Community Fund and Hackney Council.
Tom Walker, Chair of the Abney Park Trust, said: "We were delighted to join the Mayor and team with other partners to mark the moment that these historic works began."
“This restoration will bring new community spaces, boost biodiversity, restore the chapel and improve access.”
“The Trust’s programme of events, tours, activities and community volunteering is continuing throughout the works. Follow us on social media or website to find out more.”
From left to right: Selina Papa (NLHF), Andrew Williams (Quinn), Rob Davies (Quinn), Lorraine Tillett (Abney Park User Group), Tom Walker (Abney Park Trust), Mike Kaner (Architect), Bart Smith (Architect), Mayor Glanville, Chris Laine (Historic England), Nick Toner (Abney Park Trust), Councillor Susan Fajana Thomas, Zach Young (Abney Park Trust), Councillor Caroline Woodley, Sam Parry (Hackney Council Parks Development Manager)
Councillor Susan Fajana Thomas, a trustee of Abney Park Trust, elected member for Stoke Newington ward, and cabinet member for Community Safety said: “Urban green and serene space such as Abney Park can promote mental and physical health, and help to reduce morbidity and mortality in local residents by providing psychological relaxation, stress alleviation, space for physical activities as well as stimulating social cohesion.”
Councillor Caroline Woodley, Cabinet Member for Families, Early Years, Parks and Play, said: “I am delighted that we are starting work on this fantastic project to restore Abney Park to its former glory. The park has a fascinating history and has always had a special place in the hearts of residents.
“As the resting place of many local anti-slavery campaigners and dissenters, it is an ideal location to introduce new and inclusive learning facilities, which will provide a space for education and reflection to visitors for generations to come.”
To find out more about the works, watch this recording of a talk by the project architect Mike Kaner.