‘Broken’ Nottingham city parks to get £3m for improvements – including woodland trails and wildflowers
Nottingham’s ageing parks and open spaces will be getting a raft of improvements – including restored play areas, woodland trails, and wildflower meadows.
Nottingham City Council says it will be rolling out a programme of works, totalling more than £3m, for green spaces and parks across every ward in the city, including in Bulwell and Highbury Vale.
A significant number of play areas will be getting refurbished, while some areas will be transformed into new play spaces, and others will receive health and safety work.
Funding will be coming from Section 106 contributions, which are financial payments pledged by developers when their plans are approved, to help meet the demands that new developments place on local infrastructure and services.
The investment is expected to be formally approved at a meeting of senior councillors on October 20.
Colin Parr, the corporate director for communities, environment and resident services, said: “Parks for People will deliver greener, safer and more welcoming outdoor spaces in every ward of Nottingham.
“Funded through developer contributions, the programme will invest in everything from major destination play areas and neighbourhood playgrounds to woodland trails, biodiversity projects and accessibility improvements.
“Residents will see new and improved places to play, exercise, relax and connect with nature, while investment in paths, surfacing and site furniture will make parks and open spaces easier for everyone to access and enjoy.
“Across the city, the programme will support projects such as play area improvements at Forest Recreation Ground, Highfields Park, Rosedale Drive and Independence Street, alongside nature and habitat enhancements including wildflower meadow creation at Bellargate Rest Garden.
“By investing in local green spaces, the programme will help create healthier communities, support biodiversity and ensure that people of all ages can benefit from high-quality parks and open spaces close to home.
“The result will be visible improvements in every ward, helping to make Nottingham an even greener, healthier and more attractive city in which to live, work and visit.”
Coun Shuguftah Quddoos (Green), said: “Any spend on our parks is welcomed and much needed as many local parks have broken swings, broken fitness equipment and a lack of wildflowers in the springtime.
“I’m aware though, that £3m is just not enough, and could easily be spent on the four parks identified in my ward alone.”