Crystal Palace Park is set for a historic transformation as major regeneration works begin.
The multi-million-pound project will see the restoration of the iconic Crystal Palace dinosaurs and Italian terraces, as well as the creation of a new dinosaur-themed playground.
These sites are key aspects of the park's history, which is closely linked with the Crystal Palace that was moved to the park after the Great Exhibition.
The council has appointed Maylim, a contractor specialising in public realm and landscaping schemes, to carry out this phase of works.
Maylim has assembled a team of heritage specialists to ensure the Crystal Palace Park restoration works are completed to a high standard.
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The extensive regeneration plan is being co-delivered by Bromley Council and Crystal Palace Park Trust.
This is the latest in a series of steps to progress the park’s regeneration, which includes the sale of land adjacent to the park for affordable housing.
A £5 million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund has also been secured to support the upcoming works.
Expert advice, including from Historic England, will guide various elements of the works, including the careful restoration of the Grade I-listed dinosaurs and the Italian terraces.
The upcoming works are expected to be completed by autumn 2026, with various park improvements delivered sooner.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, Bromley’s executive councillor for renewal, recreation and housing, said: "The new future for this park will start to unfold as we begin to breathe fresh life into prominent and beloved sites that capture the distinguished history of this incredible park.
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"Sustained efforts, working with partners over a number of years, have led to these upcoming works, as we secure the park’s history for generations to come."
Victoria Pinnington, chief executive of Crystal Palace Park Trust, said: "We can all look forward to a revitalised park, with its much-loved heritage features restored and protected, with better accessibility and improved information about the park’s history.
"We couldn’t be more pleased that this vital work is about to begin, to deliver all of this and more for our visitors."
Thomas O’Mahony, managing director of Maylim, said: "We are incredibly proud to have been appointed to deliver this next phase of regeneration works at Crystal Palace Park.
"As Crystal Palace Park has long been a cornerstone in London’s history of public spaces, it is an honour to contribute to the next chapter of this storied park."
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Stuart McLeod, director of England - London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "It’s more important than ever to protect the natural heritage on our doorstep so it’s fantastic to see the restoration commence at one of London’s great green spaces.
"The impact of this project will be felt for generations to come, with better accessibility, new spaces for the community and restored natural and physical heritage."
Key elements of the upcoming works include the restoration of the 30 Grade I-listed dinosaur sculptures and their surrounding landscape, the creation of a new dinosaur-themed playground, and the restoration of the Grade II-listed Italian terraces.
Two new step-free routes will be created from the centre of the park to the top near Crystal Palace Parade.
A new visitor centre will replace the current information centre, and a new maintenance facility will be built.
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A new feature entrance will be created at Penge Gate, and footpaths, lighting, and wayfinding around the tidal lakes and Italian terraces will be improved.
Sustainable drainage systems will be introduced in key areas of the park to improve water management.
New meadows, paleo-inspired planting, and wildlife-friendly shrubs will be added to help create new habitats.
The park will remain open to all visitors during the works, with necessary information for visitors, including footpath redirection, being provided by Crystal Palace Park Trust, who are responsible for the day-to-day management of the park.