Work Set to Begin on Gingko Corner Project
Trees to be removed by central car park to create new public space
A visualisation of the proposed seating area. Picture: LGLA Projects Ltd
December 15, 2024
It has been announced that work will commence this Monday (16 December) on the project to create a new public space in the centre of Chiswick.
As part of the Gingko Corner Project, Hounslow Highways will be removing the four cabbage palm trees (Cordyline australis) and pruning the mature ginkgo tree in the raised flower bed near the junction with Linden G ardens.
Then the ground cover will be removed to allow for assessment of the remaining tree roots. It is understood that the brick wall will be replaced and drainage improved by a reduction in hardstanding.
Extended planting beds will face the gingko tree and parking space adjacent to the tree is to be incorporated into this area to make it fully accessible with the council saying that a replacement bay would be found nearby if feasible.
A bench will be placed by the 8 metre high tree with the cost being funded by the council’s share of the United Kingdom Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) grant with additional support from the Chiswick Flower Market.
Designs by LGLA Projects, developed after consultation with the public, will see the public seating area created at the site by next February as the first phase of the transformation of wider area. The company was commissioned last year by Hounslow Council to prepare outline proposals for the whole of the western end of the car park which is known by some as Old Market Place.
The site of the proposed parklet at the junction with Linden Gardens
The supporters of the proposal have pointed out that it will provide much needed seating at this area for customers of local cafes and visitors to the Sunday markets. While there has been a broad welcome for the plan to revitalise a long neglected space, some, including ward councillor Joanna Biddolph, have expressed concerns about the loss of parking space and the potential for the seating to attract anti-social behaviour and street drinkers.
No announcement has been made at this point on the broader project for changes to the car park.
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