A key green space in Westminster is set to be significantly improved as part of a new construction project.

Westminster City Council is funding the scheme to redevelop the rundown Christchurch Gardens into a welcoming space with additional seating, features and elements that recognise the site's historical background.

The project is also being developed by the Council and the Victoria and Victoria Westminster BIDs as part of their wider remit to make Victoria a desirable place to work, live and visit.

Permissions are now in place from Westminster Council, the Diocese of London and the Ministry of Justice to proceed with the enhancement project.

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Ruth Duston OBE, OC, Chief Executive of the Victoria and Victoria Westminster BIDs said: "With great history, notable connections and in a prominent location, Christchurch Gardens has huge potential to be a popular and cherished green asset for the local area. We are proud to have spearheaded an ambitious project to transform the Gardens, working closely with Westminster City Council in a great demonstration on public / private collaboration."

ReardonSmith Landscape LLP was appointed by the BID in 2017 to develop design proposals for the site. Their design approach takes account of the prominent location of Christchurch Gardens, with a focus on improving access to the site and creating a welcoming, inclusive and contemporary space. The scheme will connect the gardens more effectively to key routes in the surrounding urban area and the biodiversity of the site will also be improved.

Enabling works will be getting underway shortly, including the clearance of trees, with major construction on site to launch shortly afterwards.

The improved Christchurch Gardens will reopen to the public in summer 2020.

(CM/MH)