Boston Manor Park
Boston Manor Park, spanning 13.75 hectares, stands as Brentford’s largest public open space, situated amidst a diverse urban landscape intertwined with commercial and industrial elements. Nestled within a Conservation Area, the park boasts a Grade I Listed Jacobean house at its core and holds the distinction of being designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).
However, akin to many parks with origins rooted in private estates, Boston Manor Park suffered from inadequate investment upon its transition to public parkland. Facilities were haphazardly added over time without a cohesive masterplan, neglecting the historical design elements.
To address these challenges, Allen Scott was selected by the London Borough of Hounslow to lead the NLHF Development and Delivery phases of the project. Working alongside a multidisciplinary team, comprising landscape architects, building architects, engineers, quantity surveyors and hydrologists, Allen Scott assumed the role of Lead Consultants.
The improvements at Boston Manor Park are extensive and transformative. They include the restoration of the existing lake and walled gardens, accessible woodland walks, a community hub and a new wetland area.
Client: London Borough of Hounslow
Role: Lead Consultant + Contract Administrator
Value: £2.8m (capital works)
RIBA Stages: 1-6
Partners: MacConvilles / Kaner Olette / Delta Green / Rossi Long
Awards: BALI / RHS / Green Flag
Key Elements: conservation of listed structures / planting design / lighting / interpretation / access improvements / lake restoration / wetlands / access improvements / community market / community hub / café
Boston Manor Park has a rich history dating back to the 17th century, centred around the historic Boston Manor House, built in 1623. The manor, a Jacobean mansion, originally stood on what was a rural estate, located near the River Brent in the Borough of Hounslow, West London. The surrounding parkland was primarily used as private grounds for the manor's inhabitants.
Over the centuries, the estate changed ownership several times and gradually transitioned from a private estate to a public space. In 1924, the Manor House and its surrounding park were purchased by Brentford Urban District Council and opened to the public. The park, approximately 28 acres in size, features large areas of green space, mature trees and is known for its proximity to the Grand Union Canal.
The park holds ecological and historical significance, having once formed part of a larger agricultural landscape. In the 20th century, Boston Manor Park developed into a public recreational space and nature reserve. The park's woodlands, wetlands and wildlife habitats have made it a key green space in West London.
Today, alongside the restoration efforts funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Boston Manor Park is undergoing significant improvements to preserve its heritage, while enhancing its environmental and community-focused aspects.
