Bishops Park beach a step closer

Friday November 13, 2009

Artists’ impressions of a brand new urban beach in one of the most beautiful and historic parks in London were unveiled earlier this month.

In Edwardian times, families from across the capital descended on 'Margate Sands' in Bishops Park, Fulham, every summer and now Hammersmith & Fulham Council has announced plans to recreate that special seaside atmosphere.

The proposals are part of an £8million project to renovate Bishop's Park and the adjoining grounds of Fulham Palace. The centrepiece of the scheme is a beach next to Bishop's Park ornamental lakes.

A beach opened at the site in 1903, and visitors could relax on sand transported from Margate and other beaches in Kent. During the Second World War the venue fell into disrepair and by 1949 it was considered such a safety hazard it was closed.

Sixty years on, H&F Council chiefs hope to revive it. The council is applying to the Heritage Lottery Fund for £3.65million to help pay for the project.

Cllr Frances Stainton, cabinet member for parks, culture and heritage, said: “Both Bishops Park and Fulham Palace grounds are of huge historic importance to the borough and these plans will see them reaffirmed as jewels in the Hammersmith & Fulham crown.”

As well as the urban beach, the council plans to restore the ornamental lake and picturesque bridge that leads to the enchanting little island. Three major play areas will also be created and the café will be upgraded.

The project also plans to restore the famous Fulham Palace grounds, including the walled garden, and will see the vinery restored and the stables turned into an education centre. The Fulham Palace moat, thought to be the longest medieval moat England, will be partially excavated at the Gothic Lodge – which will also be repaired.

Cllr Stainton added: “I am sure that residents and visitors who took part in the consultations on this project will be hugely impressed with our plans for Bishops Park and the grounds of Fulham Palace. Both locations have played an integral part in the history of the borough and we look forward to a time in the near future when work can begin.”

The plans form part of the council’s ParkLife campaign – which has seen the council improving the quality of life for all people who live, work and play in Hammersmith and Fulham by providing award winning parks and open spaces that are clean, green, safe and sustainable.