This London canalside park has reopened after a dazzling £2.5 million makeover

A canalside park in northwest London has received a swanky £2.5 million glow-up, and it’s just reopened to the public after five years of consultations and works. Queens Park Canalside is now back in action with a fresh makeover which includes improved lighting, wheelchair and pushchair ramps, wildlife habitats and a new public mural. 

Partly funded by the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund and co-created by more than 90 members of the local community, the space in front of Queen’s Park Library has received a new garden, which includes bird houses, landscaping and play facilities. The site also has new places to sit, fresh paving and a renovated entrance. 

The mural, called ‘Ebb & Flow’ was created by artist Freddie Denton in collaboration with residents and features large lettering surrounded by flowers, including drawings by children from Queen’s Park Primary School.  

Geoff Barraclough, Westminster City Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, said: ‘Queen’s Park Canalside is much-needed community space and this transformation will help bring residents together in a more pleasant and more easily accessible small park. From new ramps to improved play areas, this project is a great example of how we are working with local residents to design public spaces that meet their needs and celebrate the area’s heritage. 

‘As part of the North Paddington Programme, refurbished space will play a small role in making the area nicer for everyone. All residents of Westminster deserve a safe and welcoming place to call home, and I’m glad to see that vision taking place here in Queen’s Park.’