About this project
We are excited to share that major restoration and improvement work in Harris Park is now complete, bringing a fresh new look and enhanced experience to one of the city’s most popular green spaces.
Stretching from Queen Avenue Bridge to Blackfriars Bridge, this project replaced crumbling structures meant to contain erosion along the shore, with a stronger and more naturalized riverbank.
The result? A healthier shoreline, better park amenities, and a safer, more enjoyable space for everyone.
The improvements
The old wall protecting the riverbank was made of metal cages filled with rocks, known as gabion baskets. Over time, these began to deteriorate, making the riverbank more vulnerable to erosion and damage. To fix this, the City replaced it with an improved design made of natural materials like rocks, native plants, and soil-stabilizing grasses that help protect the shoreline and support the growth of plants and wildlife.
Some tree removals were needed when construction began to allow machinery to access the riverbank and where tree roots had grown into the old metal cages, but the City took extra steps to preserve several mature trees—and is planting 74 new ones, more than triple what was removed. The new shoreline design will support long-term ecological health and let future trees thrive.
As part of the project, several park and pathway enhancements were made, including:
- A scenic river lookout for visitors to relax and enjoy the view.
- Improved access points for fishing and boating along the river.
- A realigned and upgraded section of the Thames Valley Parkway with new benches, trees, and educational signage.
- Naturalized riverbanks designed to prevent erosion and support long-term ecological health.
