Inner Windmill Road Officially Opened!

Back in 2017, the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators launched a fundraising appeal, Access for All, to raise funds for the restoration of the Inner Windmill Road. This main artery through the Commons was becoming very difficult to negotiate because of its poor condition, particularly for those with pushchairs or wheelchairs.

The Conservators and staff on the Commons were taken aback by the incredible generosity of local residents, visitors and organisations who, within six months, had raised the £55,000 needed to carry out the restoration.  The work was carried out during April and May 2018.   

The second phase of the restoration, the siting of new memorial benches along the road, is now nearing completion so to mark this wonderful achievement, in late March the Conservators hosted a small ceremony to officially open the road. 

Everyone who donated (where we had permission to make further contact) was invited and Mr Ian Hewitt, Chairman of the Wimbledon Foundation, was asked to cut the ribbon along with our Chairman, Diane Neil Mills.  The Wimbledon Foundation, the charity of The All England Lawn Tennis Club, made a significant donation to the Appeal that took us to our target.  

Following the official cutting of the ribbon across the new access gate, a piper led the group on a short walk down Inner Windmill Road to look at the new benches before returning to the Ranger's Office for refreshments.

On behalf of the Conservators and staff here on the Commons, our thanks once again go to everyone who contributed to the Appeal.

If you would like to make a donation towards the Commons, either to or current Wildlife Garden Appeal, or just a general donation, please click here for more information.