After £5 milllon worth of restorations, Haringey Council officially re-opened Finsbury Park to the public last week.
Cllr Haley, executive member for environment and conservation and Nigel Thorne, Heritage Lottery Fund Member launched the new facilities. This included opening the new Park Café and a tree planting ceremony at the Hope play space.
Haringey Council, together with the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Finsbury Park Partnership, developed the improvement programme after several years of public consultation. Over £5million has been invested into this extensive restoration and improvement programme.
The newly restored park is unrecognisable and includes significant developments including re-landscaping of the Parkland walk extension and creation of a pathway; a new café next to the lake including a public toilet; construction of an enclosed, dog-free play area with exciting water feature; landscaping on the south side of the lake; resurfacing of the carriage drive and footpaths, installation of new ‘heritage’ style park furniture including new bins, benches and finger post signage.
As well as this, historical restoration of the three principal entrances has taken place with an enhanced lighting feature on Manor House Gate. Also removal of the old disused toilet block and installation of a secure automated unit has already started to discourage anti-social behaviour in the park.
Cllr Brian Haley, said:
“Finsbury Park is the largest park in Haringey, serving a wide and varied community of people. The idea behind this wonderful restoration project is not only to preserve and enhance an important, historical landmark in London, but also to provide excellent outdoor facilities for the public. The new park I am sure will bring much enjoyment to people of all ages, for many years to come.”