It’s been a long road. But finally a planning application for the regeneration of Barnard Park has been given the go-ahead. The application was approved by the planning committee Tuesday after midnight. There was no opposition. The application came after a marathon discussion on the development of the Holloway Prison site which lasted four hours.
The plan will transform the park. New improvements will include a 9-a-side Astroturf sports pitch, a flat grassed area for recreation, a hub building, much improved circulation with all-weather paths and biodiverse planting. The hub building will house public toilets, a park manager’s office and a community room and kitchen. This room can be used as a stay and play facility for children under five. The building will meet strict energy standards. A traditional orchard will also be planted in the park.
This is great news for the community. The question is now when will the construction start and the new park be completed? Barry Emmerson, Head of Parks, said the approval is ‘fantastic’ news. The project team is now putting together a programme and timeline for tendering and construction. Watch this space.
When will the new park be finished?