The first phase of the improvements at the park in Welshmill will be starting very soon.
An experienced and specialised company ‘Back-on-Track’ has been appointed to build the new bicycle pump track. Rowan Sorrell, an elite level mountain-bike racer, leads the team that will be involved with the build, and he will also be on site for a couple of events after completion. FROGS were helped by local bikers to define the work and to help choose a contractor. Adults and children alike gave their views and Back-on-Track impressed them the most. FROGS (Frome Recreation and Open Ground Supporters) and Frome Town Council (FTC) were awarded money from the Big Lottery’s Community Spaces programme which is managed by Groundwork. The money will cover the pump track and the first phase of work to improve the play area at Welshmill.
The consultation work showed FROGS that a bike track and a natural play area with seating came top of people’s list of improvements to the area. The Lottery money is backed up with a lot of support and extra money from Frome Town Council.
People wanted more seating in a natural setting to enjoy the area. FROGS and Frome Town Council are thrilled that Anthony Rodgers, local artist and sculptor, will be making a bespoke seat for the park. Anyone who wishes to help with the project by helping to clear the site, or contribute ideas for the artwork, please join FROGS, the FTC and Anthony Rodgers on Wednesday 30th May at Welshmill from 3.30pm onwards.
Of course, this is just the start of upgrading the play area. When this work is complete, there will be another chance for people to suggest what else is needed in the Welshmill Greenway, which covers the area from Welshmill Lane to the Canoe Club.
During the work, the park will inevitably have restricted access – details will be available from the website and Frome Town Council. Keep checking the website – www.welshmillconsultation.co.uk for more information on the work and how you can help, and email comments to welshmillconsultation@ mail.com.
