We can’t believe that it’s been three months since we opened the newly refurbished St James’ Park as part of the King’s Coronation events.
We had such a good turn-out for the Crown Hunt back in May and it was reassuring to hear lots of glowing comments about the positive impact this project has had on our residents. Since then, it has been wonderful to see so many children, of all ages, using the play area as it was intended.
Part of the works included creating new accessible pathways, new sustainable equipment, ‘Shaftesbury’ branded benches and picnic tables, landscape works and trees coppiced to make the most of the views. Plus, much more.
Please see some of the feedback from our residents:
“Firstly, my daughter and family came down last week, we spent an afternoon in St James’s Park and we absolutely loved it. What a fabulous job the Town Council have done. We had a 2 and 4 year old and they had such a fun time.
“I loved the space being so integrated and suitable for all ages. There were young teenagers accompanied and unaccompanied and they all seemed to be very mindful of the little ones playing on equipment close by and offering to help them.
“My daughter and her partner – they live in Birmingham, said it must be one of the nicest playgrounds in the country with the best views! So, a very well done for making it happen.”
“Thanks for the lovely fun event. Everyone enjoyed it and there was some great play equipment.”
“…X has asked me to congratulate you on such a wonderful space for children and were pleased to hear children enjoying themselves so much.”
“They were literally running down and up the hill screaming in excitement. And another lady with her children said we heard the mowers and ran up the road to see the park open. It’s such an important part of a town.”
“Looks amazing – loads of people stopped to say it looks amazing!”
This project forms part of the wider commitment the Town Council has to improving the town’s play parks and green spaces. The skate Park at Barton Hill also had a makeover recently and more work is planned over the coming year.
