What do you want for Wandle?
Press Release Details
- Ref
- 3463
- Date
- Tue, 19 Aug 2008 11:11:32
Over 150 local people have filled out questionnaires and 300 taken part in consultation events in the park.
To help the consultation process a model of the park was displayed, which was constructed by Kingsley Primary School.
The idea of river restoration or introducing another type of water feature has proved popular. In 1967 the River Wandle was buried in a culvert beneath the park. Now the council is working with the Environment Agency to explore options to reinstate it. Detailed feasibility studies are being undertaken by specialist consultants.
Other suggestions for the park include revamping the playground, a new skate park, new toilets, extra seating and new litter bins.
The council will spend the rest of the summer developing some of these ideas into a 'masterplan' for the park.
Councillor Steve Hollands, cabinet member for culture and sport, said: "Wandle Park has gone through many transformations during its lifetime and forms a vital part of Croydon's heritage. In Victorian times the River Wandle and boating lake attracted visitors from afar.
"I’m very excited about the new proposals for the park. Not only is it a fantastic opportunity to provide an inviting place for people to relax, exercise and be outdoors, it is central to the future prosperity of this area."
Longer term plans for the area include the development of a Wandle Regional Park linking the landscape, parks, access routes, residential and regeneration areas together from the source of the Wandle in Croydon all the way to the Thames.
There's still time to fill out a questionnaire to have your say about the park. Visit croydon.gov.uk and follow the links from the home page, or request a questionnaire by post by calling 020 8726 6000 ext 61980 or emailing urban.design@croydon.gov.uk.
Croydon's urban design team will be presenting design proposals for the park under the shelter by the Rose Garden on Wednesday 3 September from 4-8pm and Saturday 6 September from 12noon-4pm. All are welcome to attend.
