A wetland, an ice house and a fantastic landscape
LOTTERY GRANT WILL FUND FIRST STEP IN THE TRANSFORMATION OF CRANFIELD PARK
A MUCH-LOVED green corner of the Crane Valley can flourish further thanks to a National Lottery grant.
Hillingdon Council has received an initial grant of £221,100 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Big Lottery.
The award will help the council seek further funding for a major restoration project at Cranford Park. If successful, this grant will enable essential repairs to Cranford Park’s historic buildings and introduce new facilities.
In addition to the restoration, the project plans brand new visitor amenities and improved biodiversity.
The Grade II listed vaulted 16th century cellars of the former house would be repaired and, for the first time ever, made accessible to the public.
This venture will help the park, already rich in history and natural diversity, reach full visitor potential. Essential repairs and conversion of the listed 18th century stable block would provide display space, meeting rooms, and see the rebuilding of a former wing to provide a new visitor cafe and toilets.
Councillor Jonathan Bianco, Cabinet member for finance, property and business Services said: “It is wonderful to receive this vital grant to help us in our plans to preserve this important historic site.
“The project would transform the area. Cranford Park is a much loved green space and these facilities will enrich the visitor experience for residents and their generations to come.”
The long-term project aims to restore the formal landscape to its former glory, incorporating features such as the old ha-ha, ice house and walled garden.
Natural history will not be forgotten, as the biodiversity will be improved with the grazing of long-horned cattle and the establishment of a new wetland area.
The entire design scheme will be developed in liaison with the Cranford Park Friends. This organisation has been working with Hillingdon Council for the last few years to help care for the park and host walks and events.
■ For more information: visit www. hillingdon.gov.uk/cranfordpark and cranfordparkfriends.org