Nature Plans for parks

We are inviting residents in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole to give feedback on nature plans for seven local parks.

As part of our ‘Green Heart Parks’ project being delivered in a number of community parks across the conurbation, draft plans have been developed for the next phase of our work and detail the park enhancements which will benefit local people and wildlife.

The project aims to improve biodiversity, engage and inspire residents with the nature on their doorstep, encourage community growing, and break down barriers for non-park users.

The parks selected for the ‘Green Heart Parks’ project are: Alexandra Park, Boscombe Chine Gardens, Branksome Recreation Ground, Moore Avenue Park, Mudeford Woods, Muscliff Park, Pelhams Park, Redhill Park, Seafield Gardens, Sherborn Crescent Open Space, Slades Farm, Turlin Moor Recreation Ground, Watermans Park, and Winton Recreation Ground.

Stephen Concar, Project Manager at The Parks Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to share new nature plans for seven of our Green Heart Parks, and are eager to find out what communities think.

“The draft plans include the creation of important habitats for wildlife such as a mini wetland, wildflower meadows, planting native shrubs and hedges, and installing bird boxes.

“There are also changes aimed to enhance visitors’ experience of the parks, including new signage, benches, and community growing areas which can provide people with an opportunity to get involved with planting and caring for the fruit and veg, as well as being a source of food.

“It’s so important to protect and enhance our greenspaces, and I’m excited to work in these vital local spaces. We want to encourage as many residents as possible to take a look at the plans and let us know what you think by completing our online survey.”

The plans will be displayed in each of the parks, as well as on our website, where an online survey can be completed. The survey will be open for feedback into the new year.

This project is a collaboration between our charity and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, and builds on previous work delivered over the last three years.

Cllr Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, said: “Spending time outdoors in nature is beneficial for our wellbeing, and it allows us to explore our local area too.

“Working with The Parks Foundation, we would like to learn how local people currently connect with the parks and what they think of the proposed plans to help us enhance and shape the future of these spaces to benefit the whole community, as well as increase the biodiversity in each park.

“I encourage all our residents to fill in the survey and share your thoughts on these urban greenspaces.”

As well as improving the biodiversity in the parks, our team are hosting a variety of free, fun, and informative nature-based activities each month.

During December, activities include winter wildlife walks, making bird feeders to help keep birds well-nourished over the colder months, and festive crafting using natural foraged materials.

To view the plans, take part in the survey, and find out more about the Green Heart Parks project, visit: parksfoundation.org.uk/green-heart-parks/

For information about activities in your local park this winter, visit: parksfoundation.org.uk/events/

The Parks Foundation would like to thank the funders of the Green Heart Parks project; the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Public Health Dorset, and the New to Nature programme.

Published December 2023