Soon, work will commence at the south-east end of the Rayners estate to restore the original Victorian boating lake, in accordance with the approved planning permissions. This picturesque feature, which once formed a centrepiece of leisure and reflection within the gardens, is set to be carefully excavated and reinstated after decades of infill and neglect.
The first phase of this restoration will involve the methodical removal of the material used to fill the lake during the years when Rayners operated as a school. These excavations will be strictly contained within the original Victorian footprint of the lake, preserving the authenticity and proportions of this historic water feature.
Programme and Practicalities
While an exact timescale is not yet definitive, the excavation is anticipated to take approximately three weeks to complete. Should there be any significant variation to this estimate, updates will be shared in good time.
In line with recent activity across the site, all work will be confined to weekdays to ensure minimal disruption to neighbours and visitors over weekends.
Looking Ahead
The revival of the boating lake represents another important step in Rayners’ vision to respectfully rejuvenate its Victorian heritage while preparing the site for future hotel use. This beautiful water feature, lost beneath years of alteration, will soon return as a cherished element of the restored estate.