A NEW pavilion, footpath, sports facilities and planting could be on the cards for Victoria Park and the Mary Baily playing field after the town council revealed its latest plans for the area.
The upgraded plan for the parks was unveiled at a council meeting in March, following consultation and discussions after the first version was put forward in 2014.
Although plans could change depending on what funding is available in the coming years, new proposals include paths through and between the parks, a new pavilion to link the two, and upgrades to the skate park and play areas.
Since 2014 a new games court and three tennis courts have already been provided.
The town council’s environment officer, Chris Stringer said, “This is a very important project for us because both the parks are so well used and well loved by people in the town.
“It’s a big issue, and different people use the areas for different things so it’s important we get it right and make the park accessible. Part of the challenge of designing it has been trying to make sure there’s something for everyone.
“We’ll be looking at focusing play and recreation around the Mary Baily field, and the heritage and conservation side of things in Victoria Park, which is the oldest one in the town. The pavilion is the biggest talking point of the plans, and we’ll be looking a lot into that and what funding we can get for it. We’d like to see a new cafe and improved toilets and to make it a great place for families to go.”
The management and improvement plan is a long-term ideal for the area, and facilities are expected to be delivered over the next two to five, or possibly ten years.
The main items on the plan are the retention of the bandstand, extra tree and hedge planting, the park and pavilion, more outdoor games facilities, an under-fives’ ‘trike trail,’ and a water play area.
The council will now move ahead with looking at ways of paying for the development, such as grants, funding from housing developers, and the council budget.
The full plans can be viewed online at www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk under the notes for 23rd March town council meeting.
