Special Project
Hazelmere Tunnel
Improving the Hazelmere Underpass is the first of the PWRDA’s special projects.
Our aim for this project is to make the underpass a welcoming and accessible place for all our residents and visitors.
​
In September 2024 we were approached by two local residents who had an idea to improve the Hazelmere Road underpass which links Petts Wood with the National Trust Woodlands.
As regular users they felt it was a rather dismal path into the beautiful woodland that lay beyond. As a committee we agreed that the walkway has long been an eyesore for local residents with insufficient accessibility to people with prams, cycles, and mobility aids.
Our Activities
Working in conjunction with Network Rail, the National Trust and Bromley Council we have agreed to lead the following improvement activities:
-
Clear the underpass of overhanging shrubbery and ensure Network Rail improve their maintenance regime of the underpass
-
Work with Bromley Council’s Rights of Way Officer to review the access barriers to move them in line with current regulations allowing the path to be more accessible but retain a deterrent for motorcycles.
-
Commission an artist to paint a mural which reflects the vibrancy and natural beauty of the Petts Wood/Chislehurst area.
The Mural
We have asked artists to develop designs that:
-
Is an invitation to explore the woodland/urban landscape which lays beyond.
-
Reflects the natural environment of the woodland including its residents.
-
Is inclusive, speak to all of our community.
-
Reflects the unique history and heritage of Petts Wood and Chislehurst
We will share the proposed mural design at the May Fayre (Monday 5th May) so please come along and have a look, you’ll find our stall in the memorial garden. Don’t worry if you can’t make it, we’ll share the design on this web page too.
​
The project is enjoying support from Network Rail, The Chislehurst Society, National Trust, and Bromley Council.
We hope to begin the first part of these improvements during spring 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions about the Hazelmere Underpass project please refer to the immediate list of FAQs below, or feel free to get in touch via: specialprojects@pettswood.org.uk
FAQs
What are the planned improvements to Hazelmere tunnel?
We have asked Network Rail to clear all the overhanging shrubbery and once cleared, to keep it maintained.
We are working with an artist to develop a mural to be painted on the walls of the underpass.
Bromley Council have undertaken a review of the footpath and are improving the accessibility by realigning the restriction barriers so that pushchairs and cycles can enter the underpass a little easier.
We have asked Network Rail to review maintenance regimes for the tunnel and drainage to try and minimise the flooding that can happen after heavy rain.
When will the improvement activities take place?
Bromley Council will undertake the work to realign the barriers during spring 2025. Network Rail will clear the shrubbery spring/early summer 2025. The preparation and installation of the mural will be dependent on funding and availability of the artist, we hope during summer 2025.
Who is paying for the improvement activities?
We have been seeking financial support to cover the cost to prepare the fabric of the underpass and paint the mural. Currently the Petts Wood and District Residents Association, Chislehurst Society and Network Rail have pledge funds towards the costs. We are likely to need to undertake further fund-raising activities to cover costs.
Who will decide the design of the mural?
The organisations who are providing the funding and two representatives from the community have agreed design principles for the artist to interpret. These include reflecting the unique nature of both the built and natural environments, local history and that it is inclusive. The artists will use their expertise to interpret the design principles to develop their proposal. We will share the proposed design with the community and ask for feedback to influence how the artist develops the final design.
How will you stop the mural being graffitied?
General experience is that areas painted with murals tend to be respected. Of course there is always the exception. The materials used in the mural will be durable and include an ‘anti-graffiti’ coating.
How will you stop the mural being graffitied?
General experience is that areas painted with murals tend to be respected. Of course there is always the exception. The materials used in the mural will be durable and include an ‘anti-graffiti’ coating.
Will you close the underpass?
We will work with Bromley Council and the artist to assess the health and safety of keeping the footpath through the underpass open. We do expect to have to close it for a short time. All other entrances to the National Trust woods will remain open.
Are you putting lights in the underpass?
No, there are currently no lights in the underpass. We have no plans as part of these improvement activities to add lights.
Who do I contact if I have a question about the improvement activities?
Please send an email to specialprojects@pettswood.org.uk