The Woollett Bridge Fundraising Target Met
Painshill Park Trust is delighted to announce that their latest restoration project, replacing the Woollett Bridge, will go ahead in October.
Painshill’s Trustees, staff and volunteers have been have blown away by the generosity and passion of its supporters and is delighted to thank everyone who contributed to this important project.
The fundraising target has now been met thanks to the generosity of individual supporters and a number of grants totalling over £110,000. Painshill Park Trust is hugely grateful to Elmbridge Borough Council for providing £41,429 as part of the Community Infrastructure Levy enabling the project to proceed.
Painshill was created in the 18th century as a living work of art and is one of the finest examples of the English Landscape Movement. The bridge is a vital part of the garden and allows people access to one of the most impressive features in the historic park: the magical Crystal Grotto. Without the bridge, visitors cannot progress along the route planned by Charles Hamilton as a walk through a series of stunning views.
In December 2019 and again in February 2020, the Painshill landscape was flooded and the wooden bridge was under water for a number of weeks. The timber began to rot and the bridge’s stability was compromised. For many months the bridge has been supported by scaffolding to ensure it is safe for visitors.
However, this October, Painshill Park Trust is delighted that bridge will be replaced. To ensure longevity, in a climate where flooding is likely to recur, the new bridge will be made of steel. The modern material was not used in the 18th century but the Trust is positive that the design will offer the correct aesthetic while ensuring people’s donations are invested in a lasting structure.
The design for the new bridge has been based on an engraving by William Woollett created in 1760.
The bridge is being manufactured by Nusteel Structures Limited in Kent. From there it will be transported to Painshill and floated across the lake into position.
To follow the progress of the work join Painshill Park Trust on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
