From Knowledge Comes Care
The Bedford Park Log Books are part of the Society’s From Knowledge Comes Care programme which has been set up in dedication to the memory and tireless efforts of Thomas Affleck Greeves (1917 - 1997), the most important figure in the suburb’s history after its founder Jonathon Carr.
The foundation of the Bedford Park Society in 1963 and the campaign to list its houses emanated largely from Tom Greeves and fellow enthusiast Harry Taylor, a retired builder. Tom, who with his wife Eleanor went to live in Newton Grove in 1951 and stayed there till his death, came to be known as the saviour of Bedford Park. An architect, a witty perspectivist and an able musician, Tom had the breadth of culture to appreciate both the charm and the originality of the place when few others did, and worked indefatigably on its behalf. The turning point was in 1967, when after half a century of decline and neglect and just four years after the formation of the Bedford Park Society, the majority of the houses that formed the suburb’s core, 356 in all, were listed following a visit by the Ministry of Housing’s Inspector, Arthur Grogan, to an exhibition mounted by the Society.
It was a decision of foresight and consequence, ahead of its time. Subsequently the boroughs of Hounslow and Ealing declared Conservation areas in 1969 and 1970 respectively. Today Bedford Park is secure and prosperous, with most of its houses in single-family ownership. Its status in the history of suburban planning is also internationally understood.
Listed Building Log Book Collection
If you are a Bedford Park Listed Building resident and do not own a logbook for your home then please to obtain a copy.