About this project

We are excited to share that major restoration and improvement work in Harris Park is complete, bringing a fresh new look and enhanced experience to one of the city’s most popular green spaces.

Stretching from The Queen's 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.

Update for 2026

Following completion of the major works last year, portions of the ground cover did not establish as successfully as expected due to impacts from environment and circumstance. As a result, finishing works to be undertaken in spring 2026 include final bank planting, correcting trail planting deficiencies, and final grassed area restoration. No impacts to the TVP or the park’s programmable space are anticipated.

We kindly ask park users to remain outside fenced‑off areas so vegetation can grow successfully. West of the Thames Valley Parkway (TVP), the temporary fencing has been installed to:

• Protect new plantings from trampling while vegetation becomes established
• Deter geese from nesting and feeding in newly planted areas

Additionally, we ask that you:

• Pay attention to all posted signage, and directions of any construction staff on site as slow moving work vehicles may be near or on the pathways from time to time.
• Do not feed the geese. Feeding wildlife encourages behavior that can damage new plantings and delay natural regeneration.

Thank you for your cooperation to help ensure the long‑term success of this restoration effort and support a healthier, more resilient riverfront for everyone to enjoy.

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.