Drainage works in Queen's Park

Works to improve the drainage of a grassed area of Queen's Park will get underway from Monday May 13.

The works will take place on the grass surface between the Carillon Tower, bandstand and Woodbrook stream/pond. It is hoped they will help reduce the amount of times the grass and path is waterlogged in wet weather and the damage this can cause.

It involves the installation of pipes and gravel trenches underground which will hold excess water and gradually filter it away into the subsoil.

Improvement works are expected to last around three weeks.

It will mean the path which runs along the side of the stream will be closed to visitors while works are being completed.

There are alternative paths through the park and we apologise for any inconvenience caused. 

Frequently asked questions

Why are you improving the drainage of this grass surface?

If you visit the park regularly, you may have noticed that in wet weather, this area of the park including part of the path becomes waterlogged making it unusable at times.

The aim of these works is to hopefully reduce the amount of times it becomes waterlogged and to try to help the surface cope with as high a footfall as possible.

Will this stop the paths being covered in water near the pond?

It won't stop it completely but we are hoping it should reduce the frequency and severity during wet weather.

Why are you completing the work now - when the weather is nice and the park is busier?

The work was originally due to be completed earlier this year. However due to the rainy weather, the surface was simply too wet for the works to be completed.

The park has needed to dry out and this is the first opportunity we have had to get the work underway.

Will I notice the works when I visit the park?

If you're visiting the park during the works, you are likely to notice them taking place. There may be some disruption however this will be kept to minimum. 

A path closure will also be in place during the works and we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Will any entrances to the park be closed?

No, the improvement works to this section of the park will not impact any of the entrances to the park.

Will the cafe / museum or carillon tower be impacted?

No, there will be no impact on any of these.

Do any trees need to be removed?

No, there are no plans to remove any trees. 

How will you ensure the grass regrows after works are completed?

We will lay new turf on the area which are excavated and make sure the soil is seeded and watered to encourage the new turf to grow.

Are there plans to do similar works elsewhere in the park?

We are hoping to complete similar works on a small section of the grass either side of the path close to the Granby Street entrance. Work will start later in May and will cause minor disruption.

It will not impact access to the park or the path.