Merton Council has been handed £400,000 and a parcel of land by landowner AXA Sun Life Plc to secure a more public future for the remains of the Merton Priory chapter house.

The funding and land transfer were agreed as part of the planning application for the Merton Abbey housing development on land south of Merantun Way in Colliers Wood. Subject to Cabinet approval, the deal means the council will be in a good position to enable the leverage of additional funding towards ensuring the 12th century foundations of the Chapter House will be properly displayed, allowing residents a clear view of this historic site in the future.

Merton Council cabinet member for community and culture Councillor Martin Whelton said: ‘For too long the foundations of this historically significant building have been hidden to the majority of the public. We will be working with the Merton Priory Trust to ensure we come up with the best display possible to show off this remarkable monument to its very best.’

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