Artistic beginnings in a New Town

A New Town on the northern fringes of London, Hemel Hempstead was home to many displaced people following the Second World War and Jellicoe Water Gardens were opened at the town’s heart as a vital open space for people to enjoy.

Inspired by a Paul Klee painting, Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe designed the gardens with the River Gade channelled into the shape of a serpent. Opened in 1962, the Grade II listed park also included ornamental gardens, fountains and bridges over the canal leading from the car park to the town’s shopping centre.

However, the gardens fell into a state of disrepair and were put on Historic England’s At Risk register.

Helping hand from National Lottery players

Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, in 2015 Dacorum Borough Council secured £2.4m from HLF and Big Lottery Fund to reverse the fortunes of the much-loved gardens.

Years of hard work have now paid off and the opening of the gardens was celebrated with a garden party.

People of all ages celebrated achievements including:

• Seven new bridges and restoration of statues
• Restored Flower Garden and views of the lake
• Environmental improvements including better water quality, fish passes and planting to support biodiversity
• New play area and a building for schools, volunteers and community events
• Repaired paths and improved lighting and access.

Councillor Graham Sutton, Dacorum Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning and Regeneration said: “So much hard work has gone into restoring this much loved part of the town centre – there aren’t many places in the country where you can combine a shopping trip with a visit to a Historic England registered urban oasis. We are very grateful to HLF and Big Lottery Fund who made the restoration possible.”

Jellicoe Water Gardens is now welcoming visitors, and you can visit Dacorum Borough Council’s website for more information.