Walpole Park Makeover a Step Closer

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Council close to securing £1.77 million

Ealing Council is a step closer to securing £1.77 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to restore and improve Walpole Park.

It has passed the first round of bidding for the Heritage Lottery Fund’s Parks for People grant scheme, which means more detailed plans to regenerate the park can now be submitted for approval. Development funding of £210,000 was also awarded to help draw up proposals to improve the park.

Council Leader, Councillor Jason Stacey, said: “This is wonderful news as the funding will mean a lot to the local community as so many residents come to enjoy Walpole Park year after year. There is the potential to make some big improvements to the park, which is at the heart of Ealing’s Heritage Quarter, and many of these have already been identified through consultation with residents and other interested parties. Ealing has a rich heritage and we are committed to preserving this.”

Proposed works include:
• restoration of the grounds of Pitzhanger Manor House
• new trees, plants, paths and signs
• improving entrances to the park
• improving the playground
• improved visitor facilities

Sue Bowers, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund London, said: "We know that a well-kept and thriving local park makes a really big difference to people's lives. Ealing's community particularly value Walpole Park and we hope that news of the Heritage Lottery Fund's initial backing for this excellent project will provide local people with some valuable festive cheer."

Vivienne Cane-Honeysett, heading up Walpole Friends, a group of residents and park users, added: “This is fantastic news, congratulations is in order to everyone at the council and the consultants that put the proposal together. We were delighted to be able to participate to a certain extent and looking forward to supporting everyone in the next phase of the bid.”

December 22nd, 2009