There’s a reason The Viewpoint on Old Redding was so-called. Though few people been able to enjoy those stunning views across London much lately – Harrow Council are putting them back on your radar this summer!
Old Redding car park in Harrow Weald – or The Viewpoint, as it is known – was closed last year for safety reasons as it became a haunt for serious anti-social behaviour and cars driving on to grassed areas had damaged the site.
Following extensive consultations with residents, councillors and the Police, it was agreed that a new layout was required to combat the problem.
The approved design allows full restoration of the deteriorating road surface and adjoining landscaping.
Part of the scheme involves installing an earth bank to prevent vehicles driving on to the grassed areas – a design which offers environmental as well as financial benefits.
The recycled earth used for this feature is imported direct from the Council’s ongoing Flood Alleviation works at Headstone Manor Park. As well as not having to deposit the material in landfill sites, as is in line with the Council’s commitment to the Climate Emergency, it also saves money.
The project had to be halted in the winter due to the unprecedented rainfall and the impact of Covid restrictions which meant that moving large quantities of earth became difficult.
The new layout will incorporate new surfacing with 60 marked out parking bays.
The Viewpoint is due to open in July.
• The Anti-social hotspot has been redesigned to return the car park to full use following consultation
• Recycled earth is used to enhance safety and save money
• Site is due to open in July
Cllr Varsha Parmar, Environment Portfolio Holder, said: “I am delighted that work has restarted at Old Redding. We are putting in place robust measures to deter the anti-social behaviour and damage that led to the site’s closure and it is great to be able to make it publicly accessible again.
“The innovative use of recycled earth from Headstone Manor park is a great example of our commitment to combating the Climate Emergency.
“I can’t wait until we can safely welcome visitors back to this important landmark.”
Source: Harrow Council
