Life is a beach at Bishops Park

Exciting plans to restore an urban beach in one of the most beautiful and historic parks in London have been announced by Hammersmith & Fulham Council.

In Edwardian times, families from across London descended on 'Margate Sands' in Bishops Park, Fulham, every summer. Hammersmith & Fulham Council now hopes to recreate that special seaside atmosphere.

The beach concept forms part of the council’s plans to rejuvenate both Bishops Park and the neighbouring Fulham Palace Walled Garden. And residents were able to have their say on the ambitious proposals at a special event at Bishops Park on Sunday June 21.

Once the council has finalised its designs for the both open spaces, it will apply to the Heritage Lottery Fund for up to £3.5m of funding.

As well as recreating the beach and restoring the ornamental lake, proposals on the agenda include:

• Refurbishing the famous Fulham Palace walled garden – This would see the vinery and bothy restored to support a working walled garden.
• Restoration of the picturesque historic stone bridge across the pond in the park.
• Restoration of the cafe building and its surrounds
• The extension of the stableblock in the Palace grounds to support a purpose-built education facility.

Cllr Paul Bristow, cabinet member for residents’ services, 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. Make sure that you attend the event on June 21 so that you can see our plans and comment on this hugely exciting project.”

The plans form part of the council’s ParkLife campaign – which sees 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.

For more information and to view development proposals and comment online visit http://www.lbhf.gov.uk/ or www.citizenspace.com/local/lbhf/.