Manor Fields Park Development

The main work to date has included:

• The redevelopment of a corner of the allotment land as a new secure area for pigeon racers and allotment holders.  For more information on allotments call 250 0500 or visit the allotment web page.

• The development of a landscape to manage surface water run-off from the adjacent housing development (Sustainable Urban Drainage Scheme).

• Turning previously uninviting, enclosed entrances that were covered in litter, into safe and stylish gateways to the park.

• Creating safe grass recreational spaces to enjoy and to explore the wilder areas of the park from.

• Creating a surfaced path network that brings the urban character from the street into the park and links the different communities that surround the site. The paths include some shared cycle / pedestrian routes and some lit sections.
  

• Securing the site from unwanted car access and opening up views into the site by completing the final boundaries of the park.

• The investment of £900,000 from the Single Regeneration Budget, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, and housing development money, to reclaim and landscape ex housing land.  This land has been turned into an exciting landscape for play called 'Stonehirst'.
  

• The building of a new playground in Stonehirst.

Some possible ideas for future development include:

• Sculpture trail
• Fishing lake
• Park building, including a cafe and toilets
• BMX track

• Orienteering course

Principles of the project:

• Working with the local community in developing ideas, building the park and having creative input through art and events to encourage the long-term stewardship of the park.
  

• Building to a high and distinctive quality to produce a strong sense of identity for this new park.

• Working sensitively with the wildlife of the site.

• Making the most of water on site by landscaping the stream course and managing surface run-off from the adjacent housing development to create new pools and features.

• Treating the park as a landscape for playing in, by providing a range of opportunities for everyone.