New green space in Wisbech to honour Octavia Hill, founder of the National Trust

A NEW green space in the centre of Wisbech is to be created to mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Octavia Hill.

Born in the town, she went on to found the National Trust and her connection will be permanently marked with a new area on South Brink Road which will be transformed into Centenary Green – an open space for residents to enjoy.

The Octavia Hill Birthplace Museum Trust and the National Trust have joined forces to create the new space. Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House overlooks the River Nene on Wisbech’s South Brink.

Peter Clayton, chairman of the Octavia Hill Birthplace Museum Trust, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to reinforce Octavia Hill’s vision that everyone should have access to outdoor space for recreation.

“She was an inspirational woman, and our work here continues to keep her philanthropic spirit alive.

“I’m delighted that the National Trust is working with us on this acquisition, generously providing funding towards the cost of the land, but also taking the lead on legal and technical aspects.

“We have some fundraising to do, so I would encourage anyone interested in getting involved to get in touch, whether you would like to donate money or help out in other ways.”

The National Trust will help buy the land and long lease it back to the Museum Trust which will transform it into Centenary Green and manage it.