Gillett Square reopens after major makeover
20th anniversary upgrade to Gillett Square with more trees, planting, space for new businesses, seating, a multi-use play area, and expanded space for events are part of the new improvements to the square which everyone can enjoy.
Gillett Square in Dalston has fully reopened following a makeover that has transformed the square into a larger, more accessible, greener, and car-free public space.
This year, Gillett Square celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades as a valued community space used by local people every day. It’s home to people playing games of dominoes, friends catching-up and families enjoying Hackney Cooperative Developments (HCD)’s popular pop-up playground, the square provides space for people to meet and spend time together. It also hosts markets, festivals and cultural events throughout the year.
Opened in 2006 on a former derelict site, the square sits alongside independent businesses, workspaces and cultural venues such as Dalston Culture House, NTS Radio, and the Vortex Jazz club.
Recent improvements include new trees and planting, better lighting, additional seating and clearer signage, as well as a dedicated play area for children and families.
Plus, upgraded small business kiosks around the square provide space for local traders. Hackney Co-Operative Developments (HCD) will be seeking expressions of interest from traders who are interested in trading from the kiosks. For traders interested please email: property@hcd.coop
The improvements have been funded through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund and were designed by Hackney based architect muf architecture/art, working with organisations around the square, people who use the square, local schools, youth hubs, businesses, residents’ groups and other community organisations.
The redesign of the square marks the completion of a project set out in the Dalston Plan, Hackney Council’s 15-year vision for the area, which was based on the views from more than 5,000 local people.
Zoë Garbett, Mayor of Hackney, said: “Gillett Square is a much-loved and vital part of Dalston. We recognise the importance of public space and its invaluable role in community life. The improvement is intended to build on that role, giving the square more space for play, community activity and events, while making it easier for people to move around and spend time there. By removing the car park, adding greenery and creating a new dedicated play area for children. We’re putting people first.
We’ve made more room for markets, events and community activities to make sure the space is still welcoming for long-term users who have kept the square vibrant and alive for many years. Gillett Square is a unique and cherished public space in the heart of Dalston that needs to be celebrated and preserved for generations to come.”