Home Local News Protecting Knowsley’s parks and open spaces

Protecting Knowsley’s parks and open spaces

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At a time when many other local authorities are making significant funding cuts to their parks and green spaces budgets, Knowsley Council has tonight (Wednesday 25th January 2017) approved a Notice of Motion which seeks to protect the Borough’s parks and green spaces.

The Notice of Motion approves the establishment of the Knowsley Parks and Green Spaces Review Board which will review funding and governance arrangements for the Borough’s parks and green spaces. Importantly, the Board will consult with the public for their views which will form a key element in any recommendations they make.

Cllr Andy Moorhead, Leader of Knowsley Council said “I am delighted that the Notice of Motion has been passed which has given the green light for an independent working group to be established. The group will explore options for alternative funding and management arrangements for our parks and open spaces, but essentially, maintaining them whilst also looking to identify opportunities to generate income.”

“We already run successful Bush Craft, Forest Schools and Team Building programmes in our parks, as well as the installation of green gym equipment in 15 parks, and further opportunities will be fully explored. I look forward to receiving the group’s recommendations over the coming months.”

Knowsley is home to some of the best open spaces on Merseyside. With a variety of formal parks, gardens, woodlands, natural spaces, sports areas and playgrounds, as well as 18 Green Flag award-winning parks, the spaces are enjoyed by residents, visitors and businesses alike.

In terms of next steps, Board members will be recruited throughout February consisting of a wide range of representatives from Town and Parish Councils, local businesses, friends of parks groups and academics. Research will be conducted between March and June, engagement with residents and stakeholders will be carried out in July and August and a final report, outlining the Board’s recommendations, will be available to the Council in October.

Regular updates on the Board’s progress will be available on www.knowsleynews.co.uk

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