What is London's Arcadia

London's Arcadia mission is to 'encourage universal access understanding and enjoyment of London’s Arcadian Thames through enhancement, conservation and promotion of the natural and built heritage at the core of the Thames Landscape Strategy area'.

London's Arcadia is the largest open space of its kind in London covering the stretch of the Thames running from Teddington beneath Richmond Hill to Kew. Along the River with its associated flora and wildlife, it is home to the highest concentration of historic buildings, landscape gardens, famous avenues, vistas and sightlines in England. The wealth of heritage has potential to provide a range of cultural, physical, educational, conservation and recreation benefits for the enjoyment of all.

London's Arcadia project will:

• Regenerate public spaces such as Twickenham and Richmond riverside promenades
• Repair and conserve the historic towpath
• Maintain and improve the biodiversity of wildlife habitats
• Enhance the quality of street furniture to complement the r-introduction of native plants and trees
• Improve public access to, from and along the river and foreshore
• Link major historical centres such as Ham House, Marble Hill House, Orleans House Gallery, York House, Richmond Green, Terrace Gardens, Richmond Hill, and Richmond Park
• Re-landscape a number of riverside gardens
• Restore historic avenues and reopen and frame many vistas.

122 enhancement projects will take place between 2004 and 2007. The total project cost of £3.3 million has a £2 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. £1.3 million needs to be raised through sponsorship, donations, volunteer work and events.