Hope blossoms that famous gardens may re-open

In June 2010, as the blooms on the garden’s well-known azaleas and rhododendrons closed, so too did Leonardslee.

Around 50,000 people a year had flocked to the spectacular 200 acre estate to enjoy walks around its lakes and landscaped gardens, and to see the well-known wallabies.

This week, a Horsham District Council committee will consider an application for planning permission and listed building consent, aimed at opening the gardens for visitors.

The application proposes: ‘Works to provide new car parking, new and adjusted access to the A281 and B2110, alterations to the red house, stables complex, museum block and engine house and four new timber structures associated with opening Leonardslee Gardens to the public.’

No timetable is suggested for the reopening but, given the amount of work set out in the application, fans of public gardens should probably be prepared to wait for a year or two.