The Forest Lane Park Restoration Project received approval to tender for construction works, a decision made by Rebecca Johnson, Corporate Director of Environment & Sustainable Transport. This project aims to restore the park with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Forest Lane Park Restoration Project (Lucel Tate Remembered) - National Lottery Heritage Fund Grant Funded Works Tender

The council has been granted funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to restore Forest Lane Park¹. This project, which includes the restoration of footpaths, signage, interpretation, and street furniture, will also see the creation of two new entrances to address anti-social behaviour. The park's water bodies will be restored, and ecological enhancements will be implemented. Additionally, play equipment will be upgraded, and new outdoor fitness equipment will be installed.

The decision was made to commence a procurement exercise for a single-stage construction works contract, with an estimated total value of £700,000. This aligns with the council's procurement procedures and the grant funding agreement with the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The works are part of a larger programme that must be completed by the end of December 2029.

The project supports the Towards a Better Newham strategy, specifically Pillars 4 and 5, which focus on resident health, happiness, safety, and the creation of accessible and inclusive neighbourhoods. It also aligns with the Building a Fairer Newham initiative to invest in children's play areas and Steps to a Healthier Newham to support young people's well-being.

The total project cost is estimated at £1,072,870, with £904,141 provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the remaining £173,729 funded by the council through borrowing and general funds. The decision was approved by Rebecca Johnson, Corporate Director of Environment & Sustainable Transport, and is subject to a call-in period.