The idea
Thornhill Square is a beautiful public park in Islington used by a wide range of local people.
Currently the railings have a number of sections that are missing, resulting in gaps, and where they are intact they are badly damaged and easily broken.
As a result, children and pets can get out of the park without their carers and owners realising it. Equally people can get in late at night which results in anti-social behaviour.
Local residents have submitted and had approved a planning application to restore the railings, and Islington Council has pledged a contribution of £30,000 towards the costs of the metalwork and repair.
A test section will be repaired with the first £9,200 raised, at which point we can solicit a fixed quote for the first phase of repairs.
We have been lucky enough to have volunteers to paint railings in the past, and so we hope that once repaired we can rely on more people offering their time, which is just as valuable as money.
What we'll deliver
- Replacement of any missing railings so they are sound and secure for the next 100 years
- Repairs to the worst areas on the Eastern side of the park
- Painting of all new and repaired railings
Why it's a great idea
The money raised will pay for critical repairs to the semi-derelict railings so that Thornhill Square is restored to its former smart appearance, and the square can be entered only through the three gates.
The time volunteered will be for painting the railings so that they look great and the ironworks are protected for years to come.
We are very proud of the diverse community that uses the park year round, from families to schools to dog walkers to individuals taking some time out to enjoy this little oasis of calm at the heart of our busy city.
The volunteer gardeners have done a wonderful job planting and maintaining the various flowerbeds, but the railings are now in a visibly declining state to the detriment of the whole square.
Steps to get it done
- Trial of ironworks supplier - £6,000 + VAT - Summer 2025
- Buying new ironworks as needed and providing concrete bases - £14,000 +VAT - Autumn 2025
- Islington Council funding - £30,000
- Replace, restore and repaint the missing areas and Eastern side of the park - May 2026
