We are delighted to share we have recently submitted the planning application to Richmond Council for this exciting community-driven project to rejuvenate this much-loved local open space.  

After several years working with lead architects Studio Weave, the local community, and more recently Tom Massey Studios, we have created the proposed master plan. This plan builds on the existing park structure with a more welcoming experience for its existing and future communities, defined by user friendly entrances, a strengthened ecological aim and a diverse range of amenity spaces.  

The plans include:  

Eco-Community Hub – a sustainable building serving as a flexible community hall, nature conservation and citizen science centre, exhibition space, lifelong learning area, climate refuge, and emergency response base (when needed). A gateway to Barnes Common and other local green and blue spaces with modern toilets and changing facilities, and management offices. You’ll also be able to grab a coffee or tea at the new permanent café which responds to strong community demand.  

The enhanced growing area and expanded facilities for the Vine Road Community Growing Project will enable more food growing, horticulture and wellbeing activities for people of all ages.  

The reimagined play and recreation facilities will include relocating the 0–5 playground to be near the facilities for family convenience. It will combine natural water play with traditional play equipment. The enhanced woodland adventure area will include water play elements for older children and the co-designed skatepark caters to novice and experienced users.  

A new wetland area will provide space for nature learning and engagement, as well as flood resilience and enhanced biodiversity.  

 The overall inclusive design will see widened paths and accessible surfaces for wheelchair users and pushchairs, along with inclusive playground equipment enabling children of all abilities to play together.  

Shortly the formal planning consultation will begin, full documentation will be available for inspection via the Planning portal and comments can be fed back.  In the meantime, if you’d like to hear more and see the plans, join us at Vine Road Recreation Ground for an informal drop-in session where we can answer your questions: 

Saturday the 4th of July 10am -1pm  

Sunday the 5th of July 1.30 – 4pm  

Wednesday the 8th of July 6 – 7.30pm