We unveiled exciting plans this week for a proposed project which will see improvements to the green space on Edward Street in Stocksbridge but need support from local residents in a public vote on Wednesday 8th May 2018 (6.30pm-8.30pm at The Venue) to ensure it can go ahead.
How will the space be improved?
If the plans are approved, we will be installing new seating, a natural play area, planting, way-marking and footpath improvements to the site, located near to the Co-op. There will also be some amphitheatre seating area, giving extensive views across the valley and a relaxing space for people to stop for a break.
A 2018 survey asked Stocksbridge and Deepcar residents about their use of local parks and countryside, with the results showing that an overwhelming 86% of people visit them for walking and 59% wanting improved play facilities. Upgraded paths, more seating and enhanced habitats for wildlife also ranked highly.
The plans for Edward Street have therefore incorporated these elements, delivering something which residents really want. The work would be undertaken by the charity and their team of local volunteers alongside specialist contractors, enabling the community to be directly involved in the project.
We approached local firm Enzygo, to support the funding application for the Edward Street Greenspace utilising their in-house landscape design team. Graham Bailey, Associate Director Landscape for Enzygo said: “If successful we look forward to developing and delivering our design concept with the local community and SVP.”
The total cost of the project is £27.5k, of which £25k has been applied for through the Community Infrastructure Levy, which helps local authorities deliver facilities and services to support new homes and businesses in the area. The remaining funding would then come from other external funding.
How the public can help?
To ensure that the plans can go ahead, members of the public will need to vote for the Steel Valley Project in a public meeting taking place on Wednesday 8th May 2018, 6.30pm at The Venue on Manchester Road.
There are a number of different applicants for the funding, each of whom will give a 5 minute presentation on their project. This will be followed by a period of time for people to browse displays and ask questions, before finally casting their vote.
Tom Newman, Project Manager for the Steel Valley Project, said: “This is an exciting project which will take a currently neglected green space and develop it into something which is tailored to the needs of local residents and located right in the heart of town. We encourage people to come along to the meeting, look at the plans and have a chat with us to find out more. Public support and votes are needed to enable the plans to go ahead and for us to make a real improvement space in the town centre.”
