Helensburgh’s Hermitage Park to stand as testament to Gareth Hoskins

Argyll & Bute Council is to dedicate Helensburgh’s Hermitage Park to Gareth Hoskins in a tribute to the late architect following the award of a £2.3 million Heritage Lottery grant. Hoskins and Gillespies had worked closely with the Friends of Hermitage Park, a group of community volunteers, to restore the only urban park in Argyll & Bute to its former splendour, with emphasis placed on the remains of Milling Mill – which led directly to the town’s formation. Grant funding will go toward a new pavilion designed by Hoskins Architects, restoration of an A-listed war memorial, Japanese garden and wishing well – in addition to a new sports facility and children’s play area. A council spokesperson confirmed to Urban Realm that funding for the project had now been secured and will now go out to tender, with a view to construction starting in the autumn for an official opening in summer 2018. Discussions are still ongoing as to what form any dedication might take.