After the success of the litter pick in Sweyne Park, we are asking anyone with an interest in either Sweyne Park or Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park to join in their ‘Friends of’ groups.
The groups help the Council develop the park and put forward suggestions for activities and events. Whether it’s taking part in litter picks, organising nature walks, reporting vandalism or any project you want to see then you can join in and have your say.
Since it was set up last year, the Friends of Sweyne Park group has been a great success. As a result of resident’s requests at the meetings of the Friends of Sweyne Park Open Space group, a number of changes have already been made, including:
- the installation of additional bins
- improvements to access
- the provision of advice to dog owners about responsible dog ownership
- events such as a litter pick morning and a RSPB-led Bird Walk have been held
The success of the Sweyne Park group led to the formation of the Friends of Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park group in March.
Rochford District Council’s Portfolio Holder for the Environment, Councillor Michael Steptoe, said “‘Friends of’ groups are invaluable to the Council, as they give us a real idea of what’s needed in the local parks and open spaces from a resident’s point of view.
The Council already works hard to keep our parks and open spaces litter free and act quickly when vandalism is reported. However, the way residents have enthusiastically embraced the idea of ‘Friends of’ groups has been a huge positive for us and park users.”
The Chairman of the Friends of Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park group, Graham Hutchinson added: “Cherry Orchard Park is a beautiful part of the District and is used by a large number of people, whether it’s for taking the family out for a walk, exercising the dog or enjoying the wildlife.
To be able to talk directly to the Council about what regular users want to see and what needs doing means we can make it an even better facility for everyone to enjoy.”
For more information on how to join a Friends group you can contact Rochford District Council’s Senior Environmental Assistant Heather Meggison on 01702 318057 or email beafriend@rochford.gov.uk
