The major refurbishment of the Riverside Gardens in Erith is taking shape, marking an important milestone in the regeneration of the area.

The newly transformed gardens will bring residents and visitors closer to the River Thames with new seating, a playground and outdoor fitness zone, as well as a community gardening area located along a 'Thames promenade route' running the length of the gardens.

Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Cllr Richard Diment said:

We’re really pleased with how Riverside Gardens is coming together, the changes are part of the Council’s serious commitment to transforming the area and opening up the riverside space. The gardens have been designed to offer something for everyone.

We know how keen residents are to start enjoying the new facilities and we’re working hard to allow safe access as soon as possible.”

While the park is close to completion, there is still some construction work ongoing as well as final modifications and health and safety checks to other elements across the site.

Newly planted areas are also being given time to properly establish before the park fully opens to the public. It is hoped that some of the park will be open for public use in May, with a formal opening planned for June.

Riverside Gardens is a key part of the broader Erith Regeneration Programme, which also includes ongoing work at Walnut Tree Road and 68 Pier Road and further improvements for Erith High Street.

The new 68 Pier Road space will have a kitchen, a hireable events area and meeting rooms plus a Changing Places toilet facility. There will also be an indoor courtyard that local people can use to meet and relax and for outdoor community events.

Works to improve Walnut Tree Road for pedestrians and vehicles are expected to be complete by this summer.

The Council has been working closely with local people and partners to deliver improvements in Erith that enable it to make the most of its riverside location and to thrive as a place to live and do business.

All of the improvements are being delivered by the Greater Erith Programme at the London Borough of Bexley and are funded by the Council and partners. Find out more on the Greater Erith website.