Opening up the river

Along much of the Thames offices, hotels and private housing developments have ‘cut off’ existing communities from the river. Coin Street Community Builders wanted to open up the river for everyone to enjoy.

Between 1984 and 1988 Coin Street Community Builders organised the demolition of derelict buildings, the completion of the South Bank riverside walkway and the laying out of a new riverside park. This opened up spectacular views of the Thames, St. Paul's Cathedral and the City.

The park is called Bernie Spain Gardens after Bernadette Spain, one of the original Coin Street Action Group campaigners. Both Bernie Spain Gardens and the Thames Path (between the National Theatre and Sea Containers House) are owned, managed and maintained by Coin Street Community Builders. This stretch of the riverside now attracts visitors from all over the world as well as being a resource enjoyed by those who live or work in the area.