When public expectations meet the demands of biodiversity and resilience in the face of climate change, the renovation of a park becomes a gift to its users. Let's take a look at an exemplary project in Corsier, Switzerland. The Charlie Chaplin Park has just been renovated and once again offers spectacular views over Lake Geneva. A veritable lung of greenery for the inhabitants of Corsier-sur-Vevey, this haven of peace allows all generations to enjoy a respectfully redesigned world.

When we visit this newly renovated park, the bustle of children playing in the playground shows that it has been adopted by residents of all generations. But before we talk about the renovation, let's take a look at the history.

The English actor and director Charlie Chaplin, famous beyond the borders of Switzerland, left his mark on silent cinema with such famous films as "The Kid" and "Modern Times". Between 1958 and 1977, he spent the last years of his life in Corsier at the Manoir de Ban, a stone's throw from the park. Originally acquired by the Lecourt family, the estate includes Château du Châtelard. It is interesting to note that as part of the Wahlen Plan, initiated by the Federal Councillor of the same name to combat famine during the Second World War, the entire area was transformed into a vegetable garden...

Legal obligation

Fortunately, the changes made in recent months have been of a different nature for this central park, which is already well known to the public. In fact, it was necessary to improve and make safe the play equipment and facilities. There was also a lack of street furniture for users.

The basis of the renovation

A survey was carried out among a panel of Corsier residents and schoolchildren to find out what they wanted from the redevelopment. The results of this consultation were presented to the town council and included in the specifications. The town council then decided to involve the Geneva School of Landscape, Engineering and Architecture in the project. After half a dozen site visits, the 3rd semester bachelor students in landscape engineering presented fifteen different preliminary designs to a municipal delegation in early 2020. A summary of the various projects was then drawn up and the "best" of each was selected.

A respectful approach

As well as listening to the public, the existing landscape, trees and certain flat areas have been preserved. The few trees affected by the works have all been replaced. The giant sequoia that once stood in the park was senile and had to be felled, but all the wood was recycled on site, notably to make tables and seats in the shade of the centuries-old yew trees. Areas of flower meadows have been created, as well as flower beds containing mainly native plants. These plantings were complemented by horticultural plants selected to meet the needs of climate change, and an orchard was introduced. The aim was to respect the garden as it was described in the archives, i.e. a pleasure area surrounded by orchards and vineyards. Amenities such as petanque courts, benches, barbecues, insect houses and nesting boxes were also incorporated into the project. This oasis of biodiversity is the result of everyone's desire to work in harmony with the sensitivities of the area. The renovation of the 14,000 m2 area was carried out in a single phase.

A breath of fresh air

The historic grey gravel paths were respected and refreshed. Only one undulating path has been added to the original layout to allow a circular walk and longer enjoyment of the spectacular views. Students from the Geneva School of Landscape Engineering and Architecture inspired the project, and the path now forms an undulating course with unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. In fact, the entire park was closed and opaque due to the existing vegetation. Some areas have been opened up by thinning or removing invasive plants by felling and stubbing. Some of the canopies have been lifted to create through views.

A festive and sporty garden

Now user-friendly, the park offers a wide range of activities, such as the petanque court under the centuries-old chestnut trees. Demanding players have taken to the courts now that the gravel surface has met their expectations. Renovation work has also enabled the stele dedicated to Charlie Chaplin to be improved. The Chaplin Pavilion has been preserved and can now be hired by the public for parties. Recently, insect hotels have been installed, as well as a kiosk with sports and leisure equipment, which can be used free of charge.

Text : Jean-Luc Pasquier

Jean-Luc Pasquier is a master nurseryman, university lecturer and specialist journalist. A horticultural consultant with a passion for plants in general and roses in particular, he is also President of the professional Breeders group within the World Federation of Rose Societies and President of the International Rose Trial of Nyon in Switzerland.

Photos: Mary Hofmann, landscape architect