17.12.12
£13m funding for park improvements
Nine English parks are to benefit from Lottery funding and improvements to their infrastructure and staff.
The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and the Big Lottery Fund (BIG) have announced £13m funding for nine parks in England, with a further £48m for three parks in Scotland and Wales, funded solely by HLF.
Additionally, initial support and £666,500 development funding has been awarded to four projects to progress plans and apply for a full Lottery grant.
The renovations include improvements to the layout of the parks, new play areas, community and education facilities, new staff roles, footpaths, an increased range of events, repaired railings and training and volunteering opportunities developed.
Carole Souter, chief executive of HLF, said on behalf of HLF and BIG: “We’re delighted to be bringing a bit of seasonal cheer to a number of popular parks especially as demand for funding continues to be very high. It’s been a tough year for those caring for our public parks but HLF and BIG’s commitment to this important part of the UK’s heritage is unwavering.
“Parks enrich millions of people’s lives on a daily basis – providing room to relax and reflect – and it’s vital that we continue to value and protect them not just for ourselves but for the next generation too.”
The parks that have won funding are:
Hednesford Park, Cannock, Staffordshire – £2.2m
Walker Park, Newcastle upon Tyne – £1.8m
Eureka Park, Swadlincote, Derbyshire – £547,300
Plashet Park, Newham, London – £1.3m
Drake’s Place Gardens and Reservoir, Plymouth – £601,600
Harlow Town Park, Essex – £1.8m
Castle Vale Park and Coronation Park, Berwick upon Tweed – £890,700
Runcorn Hill and Heath Park, Halton, Cheshire – £1.3m
Markeaton Park, Derby, Derbyshire – £2.5m
Wilton Lodge Park, Hawick – £2.6m
Margam Country Park, Port Talbot – £1.6m
Wepre Park in Connah’s Quay, Deeside – £583,400.
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]