News December 2006
Rebirth for St John at Hackney churchyard
One of Hackney’s most iconic public assets, St John at Hackney Churchyard Gardens is undergoing a massive refurbishment.
Started in spring, the restoration project is scheduled for completion in mid December, which has already seen lighting at the site dramatically improved; parking is being improved to allow for disabled access; extensive work to the walled garden, including new children’s play area, new planting and intensive tomb conservation work.
According to Cabinet member for parks, Councillor Nargis Khan, this project is of great cultural and historical significance for Hackney and London.
Included in this significant project has been tomb conservation work with specialist stone conservators cleaning and repairing many of the three hundred tombs.
“St John of Hackney has been an integral part of the Hackney community for the last eight centuries. This project is designed to return it to its former beauty,” Cllr Khan said.
“The project has also seen the total refurbishment of the gardens around the church yard, which will help beautify the area and make it a place where members of the public can spend time in peaceful surrounds,” she said.
Hackney Council, in conjunction with the Hackney Society and Groundwork Hackney have been working in partnership for this refurbishment as part of the ‘Vital Centres and Green Links’ programme, which seeks to revitalise town and neighbourhood centres in London and to construct and enhance green links, access corridors and recreational spaces.
More views of the churchyard improvements:
Page updated: 28 Feb 2007