Plans to improve Newark’s Cherry Holt Park have been supported by Newark and Sherwood District Council, with new modern and accessible play and fitness equipment set to be provided.
The redevelopment is planned to be delivered in partnership with the Newark Town Board, which has recently allocated £250,000 towards Cherry Holt Park improvements through the UK Government’s Pride in Place Programme. The project aims to support a green space within the district through investment in multi-use games areas, football pitches and the opportunity for outdoor gym equipment and improved play facilities.
During its meeting this week, Newark and Sherwood District Council’s Cabinet members approved the proposals and confirmed its £50,000 contribution towards creating inclusive spaces for families and children with no admission costs at the park in Hawtonville. Funding for the project will be available from next spring, subject to approval of the projects business case.
Following resident consultation on the proposals and designs earlier this year, the District Council refined its redevelopment plan to incorporate new pathways, gates and CCTV to address concerns of site safety and access.
Part of exciting plans to enhance parks and open spaces across the district through its Parks and Open Spaces Development Plan, the District Council remains committed to ensuring much-loved community assets continue to thrive for years to come.
The Development Plan is aimed at investing in a number of District Council-owned parks and green spaces, including those with the potential for the prestigious Green Flag status. The district already has five Green Flag parks, three of which are in Newark and the remaining two being in Ollerton and Clipstone.
Chair of the Newark Town Board, Penny Taylor, said: “We are delighted to support the proposed redevelopment of Cherry Holt Park through investment from the UK Government’s Pride in Place Programme.
This funding will support local communities within Newark, investing in a number of projects over the next few years that are highly valuable to local people. The park plans were developed through community engagement and will offer a diverse and free to access outdoor space for the community and we look forwards to seeing the works progress.”
Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “We know how important our parks and green spaces are to our residents which is why we continue to invest in the development and maintenance of these assets, made possible through significant support from the Newark Town Board.
“This programme has outlined our commitment from the beginning, and the latest investment commitment shows a major step forward for the redevelopment of Cherry Holt Park.
“The plans have also responded directly to resident feedback, highlighting the importance of site accessibility and safety. We’ll continue to focus on making sure that not only are we protecting our parks and green spaces, but we’re improving and developing these areas for future generations."
Another initiative built into the Parks and Open Spaces Development Plan is the Newark and Sherwood Town and Parish Parks Legacy Fund Scheme, which supports town and parish councils and meetings to deliver new or improved play areas. It is aimed at sites not owned by the District Council and helps local partners invest in safe, accessible and high-quality play opportunities for their communities.
Grants of up to £10,000 are available but must be matched funded to an equivalent amount. A final decision on applications will be made this month.
