Issue - meetings

To receive an update on the Telford Town Park Strategic Framework.

The Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Green Spaces, Heritage & Leisure presented the key findings and recommendations on the Telford Town Park Strategic Framework 2023.

Telford Town Park covered some 150 hectares and was the largest green space within the Borough.  It contained formal play areas located to the north and incorporated approximately 90 hectares of designated Local Nature Reserve, 13 pools and ponds, historic industrial landmarks, formal gardens, sports and leisure facilities, a visitor centre and Queen Elizabeth II Arena and attracted approximately 700,000 visitors per year and was an important part of the Green Network.

Providing formal and informal recreation opportunities the Town Park made a significant contribution towards improving the health and wellbeing of local residents as well as being central to the visitor, economic and cultural offer.  It hosted a programme of events ranging from large music events, the annual Balloon Fiesta, local community events and the weekly park runs.

The Strategic Framework set out the overarching plan and vision for the Town Park over the next ten years and remained the jewel in the Borough’s crown. 

Set out in the report were identified projects which took place alongside a range of partners and Town and Parish Councils.  The Town Park Team continued to work with the Exotic Zoo, Wonderland and the Council’s High Ropes attraction. 

A benchmarking exercise had been undertaken on the cost of the park which was considerably lower than sites across the country through income generation and a commercial approach and the Council would continue to keep striving to ensure the Town Park remained a valued part of the community.

Cabinet Members welcomed the report and the fantastic outdoor space which was vital to the local community and the positive response that was received from visitors.

The Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group welcomed the report and the importance of having a free green space and activities during the cost of living crisis.

The Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group praised the Town Park its biodiversity and access to free activities and welcomed the vision for its future.

RESOLVED – that:

a)    the Telford Town Park Strategic Framework be endorsed; and

b)   delegated authority be granted to the Director of Communities, Customer and Commercial Services in consultation with the Lead Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Green Spaces, Heritage and Leisure to progress the further development of the recommendations set out within the Strategic Framework.