Landscape architect Gross Max commissioned to draw up proposals for riverside revamp and new bridge at historic gardens

A redevelopment of the riverside areas of Kew Gardens is to be proposed by the historic park's directors, including a new footbridge across the River Thames.

Landscape architect Gross Max has been commissioned to develop plans for a new landscaped dock.

The directors of the gardens are also keen to build a new footbridge across the Thames linking Kew Gardens with Syon Park, another Arcadian garden designed by Capability Brown.

Kew Gardens
Credit: OliverN5
Kew Gardens is celebrating its 250th anniversary this year

Whatever the plans end up looking like, they must be sensitive to the historic nature of the site, which is celebrating its 250th anniversary this year. Gross Max has reportedly been asked to consult the Thames Landscape Strategy, a body tasked with protecting the river between Hampton and Kew.

Nigel Taylor, the curator of Kew Gardens, told the Times newspaper: “We have these magnificent 18th-century Arcadian landscapes on the western part of Kew and at Syon Park. Only the river divides them. A footbridge would allow people to enjoy the vista and would be of mutual benefit to both attractions. It would be good for tourists and our staff could walk to work.”

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