A popular Croydon Park is set to undergo a major facelift after receiving a £1.5 million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, writes Harrision Galliven (local democracy reporter)…
The funding will bring major improvements to Ashburton Park in Addiscombe, which some locals say has started to feel ‘run down’. It will also be used to address long-running issues like the derelict tea kiosk with its collapsed roof.
In its place, a new bandstand will be built alongside improvements to lighting, pathways, and the creation of a community garden. The park’s persistent flooding problems will also be tackled with upgrades to the historic wetland area, ensuring the space is not only restored but also enhanced for future generations.
The funding follows a successful bid in 2023, which secured £300,000 for developing plans to upgrade the park ahead of its 100th anniversary. The plans were shaped through feedback from the local community, with the Friends of Ashburton Park and the Oasis community hub playing key roles in workshops and events.
Following the announcement, a spokesperson of the Friends group told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “This funding marks 100 years of history and honours all the communities that have enjoyed Ashburton Park as an urban sanctuary over the decades.
“We are thrilled that the funding will revamp our heritage features, celebrate our history and welcome new flora and fauna through a range of ecological improvements. We are hugely grateful to the team at Croydon Council who worked tirelessly on this bid, and to the Heritage Lottery Fund.”
A series of heritage-focused activities, such as a community archaeology project and guided walks, is also planned for the park ahead of the centenary.
The grounds have changed a lot over the past century. Once home to vineyards, stables, an Italian garden, and a croquet lawn, today, they feature a running track in need of repair, tennis courts, a playground, and a bowling green.
It also houses the historic Ashburton Hall, which sits in the middle of the park. Jason Perry, Croydon’s Executive Mayor, spoke of his hopes for the funding earlier this week. He said: “This funding will transform Ashburton Park into an even better space for residents now and in the future.”
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Andy Gill, Oasis Youth and Innovation Lead, said: “We are delighted that this grant will enhance the park’s safety for children and young people in Croydon. After the tragic events of previous years, this investment is a demonstration of how working with local people can bring about lasting change, improving the life chances of our young people at a time when support is most needed.”
Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London and South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We’re thrilled to support Croydon Council with their vision to create an accessible green space for the community at Ashburton Park. We believe everyone should be able to access, connect with, and enjoy the natural heritage on their doorstep.
“It is thanks to National Lottery players that we can support projects like this, which bring people together and transform the communities we live in.”
Work is set to begin this summer, with the full restoration expected to be completed by November 2028.
