The bronze bust of Sir Joseph Paxton, the Victorian architect behind the Crystal Palace and its surrounding grounds, has been moved to its original position on the Italian Terraces. The relocation marks a milestone in the ongoing multi-million-pound regeneration of the park.
Restoration of the Italian Terraces
Previously situated at the foot of the steps, the bust was recently lifted onto a new plinth at the top of the Italian Terraces. The move follows a detailed restoration process completed late last year, which involved careful steam cleaning to preserve the historic metalwork. The Italian Terraces, which serve as the historic vantage point overlooking the site where the Crystal Palace once stood, are currently undergoing structural restoration as part of the broader park improvements.

Park Access During Regeneration Works
While the Italian Terraces remain closed to the public during this phase of the restoration, the park itself continues to welcome all visitors. The Crystal Palace Park Trust, which assumed management of the site in 2023, is managing footpath redirections and providing up-to-date access information for park users. The current phase of works is co-delivered by Bromley Council and the Crystal Palace Park Trust, with support from a £5m grant provided by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Specialist consultants led by HTA Design developed the project plans, with works executed by contractor Maylim. The terraces are expected to reopen to the public later this summer.
Source: Bromley Council
Source check Verified Local Report
This report is based on the official announcement regarding the Crystal Palace Park regeneration project published by Bromley Council.
- Cross-referenced with Bromley Council regeneration press release
- Confirmed project partners (Crystal Palace Park Trust, HTA Design)
- Verified status of Italian Terraces closure
- Source
- Bromley Council News
- Scope
- Bromley
- Updated
- 2026-06-09 10:54
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