Pearson Park’s historic entrance gateway has been awarded Engineering Heritage Listed Status by the Royal Institution of Mechanical Engineers.
The 150 year old entrance gateway has received the honour following its refurbishment by restoration specialists Lost Art in 2019. The work was done as part of the park’s £3.8million National Lottery Heritage Fund restoration project.
The gateway was initially removed in more than 50 pieces from Pearson Avenue at the end of 2018 and transported to Lost Art’s workshop where the extent of the corrosion to the structure was assessed and work took place.
Repairs ranged from infilling simple hairline cracks to more complex work including the recreation of some of the detailing lost over the years and rebuilt using original drawings and historical photographs.
Councillor John Fareham, chairman of the Pearson Park Trust said: “This is fantastic news for the park and demonstrates the quality of bespoke craftsmanship involved with the archway. I am incredibly grateful to have been part of the amazing team who have brought Pearson Park back to life and it is an honour to serve its visitors.
“I’ve genuinely enjoyed seeing the renewed Victorian features enjoyed by all since work completed last August. This listed status is the cherry on the cake for what has been a labour of love for all involved.”
Alongside the historic entrance gateway, the bowling pavilion, East Lodge and ice cream kiosk were all revamped. A new bandstand was created and conservatory built, both replicating original designs and a new bridge installed over the lake.
Alongside construction, new colourful planting schemes were created across the park and mature trees planted.
