Restoration work is underway in Wanstead Park, and the decision to add a supportive steel frame to the Grotto was not taken lightly, says Caroline Haines, Chair of the Epping Forest and Commons Committee
I’m delighted to update you on an exciting heritage project that’s now well underway in Wanstead Park – the restoration of the historic Grotto.
Many local residents will know the Grotto as a much-loved feature of the landscape, standing quietly at the edge of the Ornamental Waters. But this Grade II* listed building – one of the most historically significant in Epping Forest – has been on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register for some time, due to the condition of its structure. Now, thanks to funding from the City of London Corporation, as conservators of Epping Forest, vital restoration work is being carried out to stabilise the Grotto and preserve it for future generations.
Working in close partnership with Historic England, we’ve developed a careful plan that respects the heritage value of the site while addressing the practical issues that threaten its long-term survival. The work involves cleaning and repairing the brickwork, filling in cavities, removing vegetation and repointing areas that have weathered over time. From a distance, these changes may appear subtle, but they are critical to the structure’s integrity.
One of the most significant aspects of the project is the introduction of a new steel frame, which will be discreetly placed at the back of the Grotto. This decision was not taken lightly. The top of the Grotto is leaning, and without support, its condition could deteriorate further. After careful consideration, two options were proposed: to demolish and rebuild the original walls in solid masonry, or to stabilise the structure with a sympathetic internal frame. The steel frame was chosen as it preserves the original brickwork and minimises visual impact.
This phase of the project is expected to continue until the end of the year. While some nearby areas may be temporarily closed for safety reasons, we are doing all we can to minimise disruption and keep park users informed through signage and social media updates.
We also need your help. Recently, the contractor’s compound was accessed without permission, with fencing damaged and equipment interfered with. Thankfully, nothing was taken and it appeared to be a case of curiosity rather than criminal intent, but it’s important to remember this is an active construction site and entering it is dangerous. If you ever see someone inside the fenced area during evenings or weekends, please call us. Your vigilance helps protect this important heritage work.
Wanstead Park is a place of national heritage, and I know how deeply it is cherished by the local community. This project is a vital step in ensuring that the Grotto – one of its true jewels – remains part of that story for years to come.
For more information and to contact Epping Forest Keepers call 020 8532 1010
