About the project

Photo by Glenn Foster

Our shared journey

In collaboration with residents, Oasis Charitable Trust and Friends of Ashburton Park (FOAP), the project secured a first stage grant of £304,000 funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund in 2023, showcasing the power of community partnership.

After a successful development stage, the project applied for a second stage grant in November 2024 and was awarded £1,593,762 funding in April 2025 for a 3-year project.

From Summer 2025 to the end of 2028, our heritage project manager, volunteer coordinator and activity coordinator will lead on:

landscape improvements to the park
community engagement sessions
activities to promote the park's cultural heritage and biodiversity

Read about the park's development, historical importance, and its contribution to the local community's heritage.

Project progress

Capital works: Following the initial development phase, we are finalising designs for physical changes in the park and preparing documents for planning permission. This covers the creation of a new wetland, a community garden, improved landscaping, restored paths and railings, lighting and the construction of a new bandstand to replace the existing kiosk.

Volunteers: Our dedicated local history group will be launching in 2026 and planting of spring blooms is underway through our weekly Nature Volunteering sessions on Thursdays.

Community engagement and events: As of February 2026 we have reached almost 1,000 local residents and park users through family events, school assemblies, meet and greets, coffee mornings, free tours and tailored SEN sessions.