Case Study
Project Overview
Stonewest carried out conservation work to The Nursemaids’ Tunnel in Regent’s Park, working for The Crown Estate Paving Commission (CEPC). We worked in collaboration with the skilled team of Peregrine Bryant Architects, Hurst Peirce and Malcolm LLP, and Goddard Consulting LLP ensuring the successful delivery of this bespoke project.
Located below the Marylebone Road the Nursemaids Tunnel is Grade II listed and is a unique pedestrian tunnel built c.1821 during the laying out of Regent’s Park to John Nash’s design. It is listed for being an early example of a pedestrian subway, among the earliest surviving in London. It acquired the name Nursemaids’ Tunnel when it became an important link in a popular promenade for women walking their children around the gardens and park.
As Principal Contractor, our work included recording, careful dismantle, re-building and repair of the London Stock Brick retaining walls following installation of a new reinforced concrete backing structure, and new storm drainage. The original York stone floor was lifted, repaired and re-laid. Stone gutters were repaired. A new path was formed in Park Crescent Garden, iron railings were renovated and repaired, whilst paint layers were removed from the portals and tunnel walls, followed by complete redecorations. New electrical lighting was added, reflecting the tunnel’s original oil lights. Stucco repairs were also completed to the classical portal entrance ways.
We fully support this sensitive work to revitalise historic communal gardens and spaces, ensuring they remain sustainable, supporting social value with a viable future.