VIEWS are being sought on draft plans to redevelop seven parks across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole after a £224,000 cash injection.
Last summer, The Parks Foundation alongside BCP Council was awarded funding from the government’s Green Recovery Challenge Fund to deliver a nature recovery project in selected parks.
The parks chosen as part of this project include Branksome Recreation Ground, Haskells Recreation Ground, Jumpers Common, Kinson Manor Playing Fields, Muscliff Park, Pelhams Park and Slades Farm.
Plans have now been developed for these parks, which all aim to create wildlife-rich sites, increase habitat and biodiversity, engage communities, and enhance the appearance of the selected parks.
Councillor Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for environment and place, said: “I am continually astonished by the magnificent wildlife in our local region as I explore our parks and open spaces, from the swifts in the air to the orchids on the heath.
“We want to find out how everyone currently connects with each park and what they think of our proposed plans, and of course let us know what they would like to see in the parks. This knowledge will enable us to enhance and shape the future of these seven parks to benefit the whole community, as well as increase the biodiversity in each park.”
Draft plans include a wildlife pond garden at Kinson Manor Playing Fields and an orchard of fruit and nut trees at Slades Farm.
Residents can view the plans on display in each of the parks, as well as on The Parks Foundation’s website where an online survey can be completed.
The project builds on the Pilot Parks initiative that is being delivered in Winton Recreation Ground in Bournemouth, Waterman’s Park in Christchurch and Alexandra Park in Poole. There are also biodiversity improvements being planned for Strouden Park.
Project manager Stephen Concar added: “This project is progressing well, and we’re delighted to share the plans with BCP residents. We aim to improve the parks for people and wildlife, and we’re eager to hear the thoughts of local communities.”
Visit parksfoundation.org.uk/nature-recovery/ to view the plans and take part in the survey before September 1.
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