ONE MILLION VISITORS TO CRYSTAL PALACE SUBWAY IN JUST A FORTNIGHT ….on film!
A short two minute film about the ‘secret’ Crystal Palace Subway, nestled beneath a busy South London road, has taken the internet by storm, leading to fresh hope that fundraising targets will be met to open up access to the Grade II listed site on a permanent basis.
In just under two weeks over one million (1,079,991) people have viewed the two minute film which shows Friends of Crystal Palace Subway (FCPS) treasurer Jules Hussey showing BBC London around the hidden Victorian subway, which sits at the very top of the historic Crystal Palace park, underneath the busy A212.
The subway, a Grade II listed Victorian subway which sits under Crystal Palace Parade in South London, used to link the now-demolished Crystal Palace high level train station to the Crystal Palace, until the Crystal Palace burnt down in 1936.
Interest has been worldwide, with an additional film by National Geographic topping their most popular news videos for several days.
Jules, who is leading the fundraising campaign to reopen the blocked pedestrian access, and install a new access gate, has been overwhelmed by the response:
“Since the BBC programme aired we have been inundated with requests to shoot videos, adverts and hold numerous events in the Subway, but until we reinstate safe access these are all going to be on a wish list.
“We are always over subscribed for the one weekend a year we are currently open for Open House, but this really demonstrates support is global!”
“Our group is small and 100 per cent volunteer run, and to make access a reality for the millions of people who would like to visit the Subway in person, we are now crowdfunding £10,000, and are applying for an additional £20,000 from funding schemes for a new iron gate, that will provide safe access.
“It is only through raising this money that we can welcome everyone to visit. “Anyone donating any amount through our Paypal or Go Fund me page (www.gofundme.com/cpsubway) will be put into a draw to cut the ribbon that reopens the Subway, which will be an historic moment.”
“As part of our fundraising drive, with the support of East Dulwich Picturehouse, we are delighted to announce that we are offering a second opportunity to view our recent documentary that shows the subway in a new light, sharing stories of local people who have been enchanted by it.
“The screening is at 11am on Saturday January 30th at the East Dulwich Picturehouse, with tickets available only in advance, from £5 via Eventbrite: subwayscreening2.eventbrite.co.uk.
“If you weren’t able to see it at our premiere at Anerley town hall in December, secure your ticket now to avoid disappointment.”
Since the Subway gate fundraising campaign began donations towards the total cost of just over £50,000 have been received by Southwark council, Antic London, Acacia Learning, Martin and Co. Crystal Palace, and Eastern Cuisine, covering just under half of the total necessary.
Work can begin, but not completed without the generosity of donors far and wide.
Jules, concludes: “It really must be noted that we would not be in the position to be applying for funds, or considering the work, were it not for the practical support and belief from both councils, Bromley and Southwark, over the last three years.”
Friends of Crystal Palace Subway, a co-ordinated community led initiative completely run by volunteers, began in 2010 to make the subway safe, and reopen it to the public.
FCPS are working with land owners Bromley council, and Southwark council to reinstate access, both of whose borders it sits. The £10,000 fundraising campaign plays an integral part in the subway’s reopening.
For further information on Crystal Palace Subway please visit: http://www.cpsubway.org.uk
