A report highlighting a programme of regeneration projects across the city’s parks will be heard by scrutiny councillors next week.
The parks and open spaces report includes a number of schemes that are already underway, alongside proposals for a range of further improvements.
It will seek approval to move these projects forward, funded by the parks and open spaces assets budget.
One of projects already in development is the Football Foundation’s pitches and pavilion scheme at Bude Park. It has been in development since 2020 with a funding bid decision due imminently, kicking off a programme of works.
A further bid to the Football Foundation has already been submitted for the possible development of Playzones – new or refurbished outdoor mini-pitches designed for football and other activities which will focus on making identified priority groups more active.
The city has also been pre-selected by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to receive up to £85,000 with the aim being to improve the quality of a green space for the community. The chosen site is Alderman Kneeshaw Park.
Further proposals that will be heard include possible new water play schemes at Bude Park and Oak Road, recreation of a running track at Alderman Kneeshaw, access reviews at East and Pickering Parks, restoration of the Pickering Park entrance gateway and ‘pocket parks’, a community-led scheme that aims to transform small unloved and neglected areas into safe useable spaces.
Councillor Julia Connor, Portfolio Holder for Environment said:
“Covid reawakened the public’s interest in our parks and proved just what a valuable asset they are to the city and how much the public need them.
“Therefore, this programme of investment in our parks is to be welcomed but the revenue consequences and detailed management of the schemes will require careful consideration.
“As Portfolio Holder I will keep matters under review.”
Comments of Councillor Drake-Davis, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration said:
“Regeneration in our neighbourhoods across Hull is a priority for myself and this administration.
“This new strategy will for the first time, provide funding for the continual investment into our parks and open spaces that are much loved and greatly treasured by all of our residents.”
The report will be heard first at Communities, Culture and Leisure Scrutiny on Thursday 24 November, then at Cabinet on Monday 28 November.
