Blakedown Landscapes has completed the transformation of Memorial Gardens in Kingston town centre in collaboration with Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames and Kingston First.
The regeneration has delivered a renewed and more accessible public space that carefully balances heritage, biodiversity and contemporary public realm improvements.
Designed by Davies White Landscape Architects and LanPro Services, the project has enhanced connectivity whilst respecting the gardens’ important role as a place of memory, reflection and commemoration.
Works have included the installation of new and improved pathways, informal seating and enhanced lighting. Around the War Memorial, new granite setts, alongside the careful relaying of existing Yorkstone and granite paving, have enhanced the setting of this Grade II listed memorial.
The project has also improved the area surrounding the gravestone of Josiah Clues, a Lieutenant in the British Army who served in the Battle of Waterloo, together with the retained Anne Frank Memorial tree.
Biodiversity-focused planting has been introduced throughout, including new perennial planting beds, species-rich lawn areas and new trees selected to increase seasonal interest and create habitats and food sources for wildlife.
The completed gardens provide a calmer, greener and more welcoming public space for residents and visitors, with improved routes linking Eden Walk, Memorial Square and the wider town centre.
Chris Wellbelove, Managing Director of Blakedown Landscapes, said: “Memorial Gardens has seen a complex site transformed whilst balancing heritage sensitivities, practical challenges and a busy town centre environment. Close collaboration across the wider project team has been key to delivering a high-quality public space that will be enjoyed for generations to come.”
Cllr Andrew Wooldridge Kingston Council Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Economic Development and Planning Policy said: “The new superb refurbishment at Memorial Gardens is delightful with its careful restoration of historic monuments and incorporation of nature into the urban setting. The whole community will benefit from a welcoming space that invites reflection and relaxation and offers improved routes around our town centre’s shops, cafes and other amenities.”
