Residents from more than 300 properties on Peabody's Hammersmith Estate now have a tranquil green space they can call their own, following the completion of the Sunken Garden refurbishment last week.
Peabody worked with residents and partners, Groundwork West London and Greenscene, to transform what was once a tired and worn-down space into a smart new garden.
Residents now have a welcoming centrepiece that acts as both a place of quiet recreation for all ages and a playable space for children.
Completed works include new paths, benches, gates, turf, plants, a new iron arch installed over the gate at the eastern entrance, fully renovated existing gates and refurbished steps leading down into the garden.
The central plinth, which had been broken by overgrown roots, was re-laid by specialist contractors Mather and Smith. The largest tree on the estate, a beech tree, now provides a large shady area that is not only safe but appealing.
Landscape regeneration manager Mathew Frith said: "We have successfully transformed a tired space into something that uplifts the square at the estate. The garden's design should help to meet the needs of the residents and compliment the history of the estate. With the help of the residents, we will continue to preserve and manage the garden so that it forever remains the estate’s centre of tranquillity."
Hammersmith estate was built in 1926. Bombs during World War II destroyed most of the garden. Although repaired and since managed, by the start of the 21st century the
garden was in need of a facelift.
Resident consultation and extensive planning from all involved ensured that the garden's refurbishment kept with its traditional character.
Chairperson of Hammersmith’s Tenants’ Association, Jill Arnett, said: "The Sunken Garden refurbishment will make a huge difference to the life of all the residents, as only 30 out of more than 300 tenants have their own green space...
"It is an absolutely beautiful centrepiece of the estate and it’s something that we are very proud of."
The project was funded by the Western Riverside Environmental Fund. Grants were secured by residents and Peabody.
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