A new and upgraded park is now open in the Hyde Park neighbourhood.
Hyde Park Village Green is a new park along Hyde Park Road north of Gainsborough Road. Construction of the park began in fall 2022, and the final construction fencing has been removed allowing residents to now enjoy all of the park’s features.
At the centre of the park is a new community plaza surrounded by benches, paths, and trees as well as a wooden stage for events and musical performances. A garden of reflection offers visitors a peaceful opportunity to sit among many native plant species. A new play structure has also been constructed for kids to play and climb on. The park’s paths connect to nearby residential areas and wrap around a pond with scenic views of nearby meadows.
“Hyde Park Village Green was built to become a community gathering space and focal point in the neighbourhood,” says Mayor Josh Morgan. “It captures the community’s vision for an exciting outdoor event space and a welcoming destination for families. I’m incredibly proud of the collaborative effort that led to the opening of the park.”
As sections of the park were completed this summer, different events have already begun to use the space. Events such as Pond Fest and the Hyde Park Uptown Market have used the park’s plaza to bring hundreds of Londoners together with entertainment and local vendors.
“The development of this park between the Business Improvement Association and City of London began in 2018, and through community consultation, design, and construction, Hyde Park Village Green has become a premier outdoor events space,” says Donna Szpakowski, General Manager of the Hyde Park Business Improvement Association. “The possibilities for programming and events are incredibly exciting and will draw Londoners from across the city. We are thrilled that this gem is now complete in the Hyde Park community.”
A community picnic and celebration of the park is planned for August 25 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. by the Hyde Park Business Improvement Association. Picnic on the Pond will feature food trucks and live music in the park.
Hyde Park Village Green was funded in part by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). Additional funding was provided by the City of London, the Hyde Park BIA, and Oxford Dodge Chrysler. A plaque recognizing the project’s supporters will be installed at the park’s entrance this summer.
