Kingsmead residents will be able to enjoy improved access to the River Avon and make use of new seats while enjoying their surroundings thanks to funding from Bath & North East Somerset Council.
The improvement works at Norfolk Crescent Green are a joint project between Bristol and Bath Parks Foundation and the council’s Parks Service, who have worked with residents to find ways to improve this much loved green space.
The Bristol and Bath Parks Foundation aims to make parks better places for people to play, learn, grow, and really enjoy nature and this is the charity’s first project in Bath.
The council has part-funded the project with £4,200 S106 funding received from local developers, with additional funding put forward by local ward councillors.
Councillor Sue Craig has awarded her £2000 allocation from the Ward Councillors Empowerment Fund towards the improvements, while fellow ward councillor Andrew Furse has contributed £1000.
The money will pay for three new seats on the Green, the creation of new steps on the riverbank and will create opportunities for local people to get involved with installing them.
Councillor Sue Craig (Kingsmead Ward), said: “This is a fantastic example of partnership working and will ensure that residents can reclaim the green and reap the benefits of this tranquil riverside space.
“It is a scheme which focuses on the needs of residents and they’ve helped shape our plans.
“In the longer-term we hope to make further improvements increasing the biodiversity of the green and improving the habitat for urban wildlife.”
Councillor Andrew Furse (Kingsmead Ward), added: “Getting outdoors and enjoying our open spaces has positive benefits for our physical and mental health.
“Many local residents live in flats with no outside space, so we hope by improving access to the green and riverbank they’ll be able to make the most of this little oasis on their doorsteps.”
The improvement works, which are being carried out by volunteers, will get underway on Wednesday 26th August and should be completed by mid-September.
Providing coronavirus restrictions allow, there will be a community launch day once the work is complete where local people can visit and test out the improvements and talk about future ideas for the space.
Charlee Bennett, Director of the Bristol and Bath Parks Foundation, said: “Lockdown has seen people relying heavily on their local park for daily exercise and to spend time in nature – they have been a real lifeline for many.
“Norfolk Crescent Green is a hidden gem with so much potential and we have really enjoyed speaking with the local residents to find ways to make it a better place to spend time.
“We’ll be calling on local people to get their hands dirty and work with Joe, our Ranger, and a small team to get the steps and benches installed.
“For people who have been stuck inside during lock down, this is a great opportunity to get out and physical while meeting new people.”
If you would like to get involved with improving Norfolk Crescent Green, contact [email protected].
The space forms part of the Bath Riverline Project which will see a 5km walking and cycling route created connecting the Bath Quays development with sites across the city.
The project involves upgrading the towpath, improving green spaces and parks, enhancing biodiversity, creating new areas of public space and an arts trail.
