Thanks to two bulb-planting working parties last autumn, daffodils contributed by our local councillors provided a delightful splash of spring colour in the grassed area at the end of the car park, along the vehicle entrance to the café block, and around the civic sculpture next to the children’s play area. Previous bulb plantings along the perimeter path overlooking the football pitches, the spring bedding plants at the Hough Green entrance and in the flowerbed in front of the café, and the wide variety of trees coming into leaf also added to the attractiveness of the park as summer approached.
After raising funds last year for more public seating, it is pleasing to report that three new park benches have been installed at intervals along the perimeter path so that more people, particularly those with mobility limitations and young children, can pause and enjoy the scenery and sports activities. One of the seats was kindly donated by a local resident and we have received additional offers of donations. Further donations would be greatly welcomed and the Friends of Westminster Park will be pleased to make the necessary arrangements.
In response to strong interest by several sports and exercise groups, the Friends and Golfstorehouse have been active in advocating the restoration of the changing rooms in the café block and a Council renovation project is now under way. When the project is complete, effective arrangements for bookings and day to day management will be needed to ensure that the facilities are properly supervised and kept good condition. We are looking to work with the Council and park users to achieve this.
For the second time in nine months there was another unauthorised encampment by travellers in April. This was dealt with promptly and efficiently by the Council and Police and, because of the particular circumstances on this occasion, it was possible to achieve eviction within a day without the need to obtain court orders. Coming so soon after the previous incident last July has reinforced questions about the case for preventative measures and further discussions are being sought with the Council.
Although fortunately not a serious problem, there has also been a disappointing increase in vandalism, litter and anti-social behaviour in recent months. If anyone witnesses or becomes aware of such incidents please report them to our new PSCO Lauren Davies at lauren.davies@cheshire.pnn.police.ukor by calling 101. And please help to keep the park clean and tidy for everyone’s enjoyment by depositing litter and dog waste in the bins provded.
Summer’s here so make the most of the park!
David Guyton
Friends of Westminster Park