Raphael Park Restoration

The Heritage Lottery Fund has made a major award to Havering Council to restore the historic and natural environment of Raphael Park. The Council consulted Friends of Raphael Park and Lodge Farm Park and other local amenity societies and residents on the application. Raphael Park is part of the landscape of Gidea Hall, with roots going back to the 12th century. It has always been closely linked to Romford. When the Queen of France visited Gidea Hall in the 17th century, her courtiers referred to Romford as being a place in front of Gidea Hall!!! When Romford Garden Suburb was built in 1911, the park was intended as a town planning device to prevent poor quality "ribbon" development in Romford. Restoration work at the park should begin in early 2012 and last for most of the year.