Harris Park gets a makeover: Shoreline restoration and park improvements now complete

The City of London is excited to share that major restoration and improvement work in Harris Park is now complete, bringing a fresh new look and enhanced experience to one of the city’s most popular green spaces.

Stretching from Queen Avenue Bridge to Blackfriars Bridge, this project replaced crumbling structures meant to contain erosion along the shore, with a stronger and more naturalized riverbank. The result? A healthier shoreline, better park amenities, and a safer, more enjoyable space for everyone.

“Harris Park is a gathering place for our entire community to enjoy festivals, quiet moments in nature, and the serene Thames shoreline,” said Mayor Josh Morgan. “These improvements reflect our commitment to preserving and enhancing the spaces that Londoners value most, and that improve the quality and standard of living in our city. This is about protecting our natural, green spaces, supporting wildlife and the Thames River, and making our parks more welcoming and accessible to everyone.”

The old wall protecting the riverbank was made of metal cages filled with rocks, known as gabion baskets. Over time, these began to deteriorate, making the riverbank more vulnerable to erosion and damage. To fix this, the City replaced it with an improved design made of natural materials like rocks, native plants, and soil-stabilizing grasses that help protect the shoreline and support the growth of plants and wildlife.

Some tree removals were needed when construction began to allow machinery to access the riverbank and where tree roots had grown into the old metal cages, but the City took extra steps to preserve several mature trees—and is planting 74 new ones, more than triple what was removed. The new shoreline design will support long-term ecological health and let future trees thrive.

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“These improvements are about more than just infrastructure,” said Ashley Rammeloo, Director of Water, Wastewater & Stormwater “We’re investing in the health of the Thames River, protecting parkland, and enhancing the experience for everyone who uses this space.”

As part of the project, several park and pathway enhancements were made, including:

• A scenic river lookout for visitors to relax and enjoy the view.
• Improved access points for fishing and boating along the river.
• A realigned and upgraded section of the Thames Valley Parkway with new benches, trees, and educational signage.
• Naturalized riverbanks designed to prevent erosion and support long-term ecological health.

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Come experience a revitalized riverfront—a greener, stronger Harris Park is ready to welcome you.