Hainault Forest restoration completed after £7m green renovation.

This month saw the official completion of the award-winning Hainault Forest restoration project. The Leader of Redbridge Council, the Deputy Leader and Ward Councillors were joined by children from Forest Academy and John Bramston School and project partners, to celebrate the completion of the restoration.  A well visited and much-loved attraction by local people, the story of Hainault Forest dates back as far the 12^th century when it was given legal status as a royal forest by Henry II.

The £7million project included a complete renovation of the Victorian barns and the creation of a new visitor hub, with event space, a café, artist workshops and a Woodland Trust visitor centre. A new woodland-inspired children’s playground has been created, complete with Redbridge’s biggest slide. Sheep, pigs, and goats now call Foxburrows Farm their home, having joined the existing family of Shetland ponies, alpacas, geese, ducks, peafowl, and rabbits. The farm was renovated ahead of their arrival with new barns and paths, and public space to sit and take in the views of this ancient forest.

The Leader of Redbridge Council, Jas Athwal, said 

“Historic Hainault Forest is much-loved by communities across our borough, which is why we’ve invested, alongside our partners, to restore the Victorian barns, improve the landscaping and create a perfect family day out in the heart of Hainault. We know how important our parks and green spaces are for local people, and what a difference access to free activities for children can make for families. As part of this award-winning restoration project, we’ve put families first, creating a huge playground, indoor activity space, visitor centre and renovating beloved Foxburrows Farm. We’ve restored and preserved Hainault Forest so local people and visitors can enjoy the country park now, and for generations to come.”