Islington Council launches plans for Caledonian Park

Islington Council has launched plans to make Caledonian Park a vibrant place for local people with a restored Clock Tower at its heart.

Under the proposals, the historic Grade II*-listed Caledonian Park Clock Tower would be repaired, opened more regularly, and made more accessible to the public.

A new centre would provide an education programme, with events and activities drawing on the rich history of the site.  It will also house a café and toilet facilities for park users.

Cllr Claudia Webbe, Islington Council's executive member for environment and transport, said:

"Cally Clock Tower is a hidden gem of Islington's past.  We want to carry out badly needed refurbishment, improve access to the tower and provide better facilities, with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

"We now have detailed plans for the park, which will celebrate its great past and add to the enjoyment of people who use it.

"We invite local people to look at the proposals and give us their comments, views and feedback."

Detailed plans and views of the project can be seen at www.islington.gov.uk/caledonianpark

There is also a drop-in session from 5pm-9pm on Tuesday 21 July at the Drovers Centre, North Road where local councillors and members of the project team will be on hand to discuss the proposals.  The closing date for comments and views is 28 July.

Caledonian Park Clock Tower opened in 1855 as the centrepiece of the former Metropolitan Cattle Market. The tower and its Grade II listed railings were built to withstand a bull stampede.

The proposed centre with its heritage and activity room, café and toilets would be made of high quality materials including a bronze-clad frame with timber and glass panels, and would feature a green roof.

The proposals for Caledonian Park have been enabled by a development grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.  To pay for the refurbishment, improved access and better facilities the council would make a funding bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund.