Heritage construction contractor, DBR Ltd, announces it has won the contract to restore the historic Crystal Palace Subway
The £3.2m restoration works, on the Grade II* listed Victorian subway, will include rebuilding existing walls and the construction of new parapet walls, as well as a new roof structure.
The new roof will be visible from Crystal Palace Parade, with the subway exterior being made from glass and stainless steel, and the gable enclosed with Corten steel.
Adrian Attwood, executive director at DBR Limited, said: “We are thrilled to have been awarded the contract for this important project and are now eager to commence on site.
“As conservation specialists with over 30 years’ experience, we will be undertaking this conservation with the utmost care, so this impressive structure is fit for the 21st Century.”
‘Restoration of this marvellous Victorian treasure’
Councillor Peter Morgan, executive councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing said: “I am delighted to see the essential restoration of this marvellous Victorian treasure progressing and thank our valued partners for their support in reaching this stage.
“It is amazing to think that this elegant subway helped visitors to the great Crystal Palace stay dry all those years ago and remains a breath-taking structure that we are now pleased to bring back to life to enable more people to enjoy for many years to come.”
Simon Buteux, partnerships team leader at Historic England, said: “It is incredibly important that this structure of such local and historic importance is preserved, and we are delighted to have been able to support this restoration, both with specialist advice and funding.
“These works have been carefully considered to ensure the essence of the Subway is maintained while allowing the venue to again be used by the local community.”
The subway first opened in 1865 and has its own dedicated Friends’ group.
A spokesperson for the Friends of Crystal Palace Subway, said: “After over 10 years of working with the community, businesses and amazing volunteers, it is fantastic to reach this next milestone in an exciting project.
“It has been a rewarding experience collaborating with Bromley Council on this project and we look forward to being able to use the magnificent subway again following its completion.”
Works will commence soon.
