Horton Park, a beloved 150-year-old green space in the heart of Bradford, is widely enjoyed by the local community. However, years of misconnections and the challenges associated with maintaining the surrounding infrastructure have led to a gradual decline in the condition of the drainage features in the park. To address this, the water experts at PJA are leading the Heart of Horton Hydrology Study, aiming to build long-term resilience for the park’s future.
A cherished Grade II listed outside space, Horton Park was opened in May 1878 on land bought by Bradford Council to support the growing Victorian city. A peaceful oasis within the busy urban environment of Bradford, the large leafy park boasts paths through beautiful gardens, sensory rich play areas, and a tranquil duck pond. It’s an abundant mix of natural displays and a sanctuary for wildlife offering a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of town life with opportunities for socialising and exercising for the local community.
The drainage system, which has been in place in the park for nearly 150 years, has recently shown signs that it is no longer working as expected resulting in ponds declining condition, impacting on the ecology of the area. The Horton Hydrology Study, being undertaken by PJA’s water experts, will complete a robust hydrological analysis to investigate potential misconnections and other issues in the existing drainage system. With consideration of local stakeholder perspectives, PJA will then create sustainable solutions to resolve the issues and mitigate against future climate change.
PJA’s water expert, Phoebe Ryding explains: “This park is a special place for so many people, an oasis in the hustle and bustle of Bradford that’s essential for the wellbeing of the local community.
The historical nature of the park is central to its appeal, but the Victorian drainage systems were never built to withstand today’s climate and have been forgotten over time.
PJA’s robust hydrological analysis and sustainable design solutions will protect against flooding, improve water quality, and celebrate the park’s heritage.
We’ll be collaborating with the community and stakeholders to considerately revive the flow of a century-old drainage system to future proof this place for people.”
Image courtesy of University of Bradford
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