Eltham: Rockliffe Gardens looking Great after makeover

by WO Staff | Greenwich

Local residents and The Friends of Rockliffe Gardens Park were joined by local councillors and Clive Efford MP at the Royal Borough’s official re-opening of Rockliffe Gardens (July 4).

Clive Efford MP for Eltham cuts the tape, watched byCllr Jackie Smith, Cabinet Member for Community Safety
and Environment and local residents at the re-opening
of Rockliffe Gardens. (Credit: RBG).

The event marked completion of the first phase of a series of improvements to the beautiful open space in Plumstead. The event also marked the fruitful partnership between the council and the Friends of Rockliffe Gardens group.

This teamwork has ensured the Gardens’ recent improvements have been delivered successfully. The recent refurbishment project involved workers on the council’s ‘HILL’ (Highways Improvement Local Labour) scheme, working alongside local residents and construction company Riney to repave part of the Gardens. The HILL scheme was set up to provide work and training to unemployed residents.

People on the scheme have carried out road repairs and other maintenance and improvement projects like this one. The Royal Borough has also undertaken pruning and tidying of the Gardens to help restore it for residents’ enjoyment.

Councillor Jackie Smith, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Environment said: “I was delighted to attend the recent re-opening of Rockliffe Gardens and meet local residents who have worked hard to help this beautiful space reach its potential once again. I’m also really proud of the work the council has done on improving the Gardens, including what our workers on the HILL scheme have achieved."

“The progress we have made here really highlights the success of our partnership with the local community.”

Stephen O’Connor, Secretary of Friends of Rockliffe Gardens said: “It was wonderful to see so many people return for the official re-opening. People brought old photos, memories, stayed for a picnic, made a wish for the future of the gardens and even found inspiration for a short story. It’s such a unique place. We want to bring the community with us on a journey not only to restore the gardens but to find new uses for learning skills and trades and to provide improved habitats for local wildlife.”

People who are interested in joining the Friends Group can visit: www.rockliffegardens.weebly.com.

For more information on the Royal Borough’s many parks and open spaces visit www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/parks.

Rockliffe Gardens. (Credit: RBG).