THE future of a public open space can be decided - once city residents have had a chance to share their views on whether it should be a play park, a car park or a haven for wildlife.
Worcester residents are being asked for their views on plans to improve public space in Cotswold Way in Warndon, opposite the Mazak factory.
Worcester City Council is preparing plans for a range of improvements to the 4.2-acre area of public open space that runs alongside Cotswold Way, between Cranham Drive and Chedworth Close.
Proposals include new play areas, a new 11-space illuminated car park and work to enhance the existing woodland and to plant wildflowers, in order to improve the biodiversity in the area.
Residents are being urged to give their views on the plans in a four-week consultation open now at www.worcester.gov.uk/voiceit.
Councillor Robyn Norfolk, chair of Worcester City Council’s Place & Economic Development Committee, said: “This is an opportunity to make significant improvements to the public open space at Cotswold Way, turning the area into a real asset for the local community.
“Our proposals would make it a destination for families and children to play and relax, as well as a place for people of all ages to enjoy the beauty of nature. On top of that, we also proposing to add in some additional free parking spaces.
"Feedback from the community is vital, letting us know whether our plans meet the needs of residents. So, I would encourage people to have their say, and influence this exciting initiative at www.worcester.gov.uk/voiceit."
The proposed improvements are based on three main themes:
- play equipment (new play equipment at four zones along the route of the public footpath between Cranham Drive and Chedworth Close, creating a ‘play on the way’ experience for toddlers, juniors and early teens to enjoy as they are walking along the route
- Biodiversity – planting of colourful wildflowers, creating a new mini-orchard, improving the existing woodland and work to promote the health of the many fruit trees in the area
- Car parking – converting an unused area of hard standing off Rodborough Close into an illuminated free-to-access car park providing 11 spaces.
The survey is open now at www.worcester.gov.uk/voiceit and runs until Sunday, December 17.
People who are not able to complete the survey online can collect a printed copy from the Guildhall, or call 01905 722233 to request one.
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