Work begins on project to revitalise Caledonian Park and Clock Tower

Work has started on an exciting project to revitalise Caledonian Park and secure the future of the Grade II* listed Caledonian Clock Tower, thanks to support made possible by National Lottery players.

Islington Council, supported with a grant award of almost £2million from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), is restoring the clock tower, which will be regularly open to the public for the first time in its history, with views across London from its 40m-high balcony.

The 19th century clock tower, including its bells, balcony and staircase, will be fully refurbished, and the original market railings on Market Road and Shearling Way will be repaired and restored. In addition a new heritage centre, called the Cally Clock Tower Centre, will provide a space for residents to learn about the clock tower’s rich history, and to host community activities.

The centre will include a dedicated space for educational displays and activities, a new café with indoor and outdoor seating and accessible toilets, space for a park ranger, volunteer’s room and 24-hour CCTV coverage.

Islington councillors joined construction workers last week (Wednesday, 18 October) to mark the start of work on site.

Cllr Claudia Webbe, the council’s executive member for environment and transport, said: “It’s fantastic that work has begun on this exciting project, which offers a brilliant opportunity to celebrate our history, and bring that history alive.

“Caledonian Clock Tower is a jewel in Islington crown, and the new heritage centre and refurbished clock tower will place the clock tower and Caledonian Park firmly at the heart of the community.

“We’re committed to working closely with local residents and the Heritage Lottery Fund to create a heritage centre that offers all park visitors a warm welcome, with its new café and toilets. We look forward to working with local people and volunteers to make this project a success.”

As with extensive consultation held during the project’s development, resident involvement will be at the heart of the project throughout construction, and to help shape the successful future running of the park and heritage centre.

Caledonian Park and play areas will remain open to visitors whilst the construction takes place. Work is being carried out by construction company Lengard, and is due to be completed in summer 2018.

As part of its ongoing investment in high-quality parks, open spaces and the clock tower, Islington Council has committed to fund the project for the next 20 years.