£1.5 million commitment to parks improvement approved by Cabinet on Valentine’s Day

PR2417/RA/MJ - 16/02/2022

Mid Sussex District Council’s love of parks and open spaces was re-emphasised with a commitment by Cabinet on 14th February to invest over £1.5 million improving key parks and open spaces across the District over the next financial year.

The Council’s Cabinet met to approve investment proposals for Hemsley’s Meadow and Finches Field in Pease Pottage, Mount Noddy in East Grinstead, and Victoria Park in Haywards Heath.

The Council has consulted with residents to create distinct masterplans that set out proposed improvements for each location. Landscape architects used public feedback to prepare draft designs that show how each park could be improved over time.

The plans are available for residents to view online at www.midsussex.gov.uk/leisure-sport/parks/

Here are just some of the potential improvement projects for each park and open space:

Hemsley’s Meadow and Finches Field
At this popular site in Pease Pottage plans have been identified for -
All weather pathways that create circular walks and a resurfaced car park
Establishment of a wet woodland
Pathways mown through wildflower grasses in the summer

New play areas for children

Mount Noddy
This key East Grinstead greenspace has plans that include -
Leisure equipment for older children and young adults
New sensory play area
Improved lighting
Creation of a picnic meadow

New play area facilities and an improved frontage along South Road will also be developed at Victoria Park, Haywards Heath.

All plans will be subject to further, detailed consultation so local residents and park users are encouraged to keep an eye out on social media and in our parks for invitations to get involved.

Councillor John Belsey, Mid Sussex District Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Service Delivery said:
“Our public open spaces are often at the heart of the local community, so it’s fitting that we’ve finalised the funding for these proposed improvements on Valentine’s Day.

“Parks have a tremendously positive effect on our health and wellbeing. As well as being valued for nature, they also present opportunities for people to meet and enjoy the outdoors.

“Residents told us through our public consultations how they would like to see these parks develop and improve over the next few years and we’ve listened carefully to what people had to say. I’m delighted that we can now take another step forward towards improving our parks and ensuring they offer something for everyone to enjoy.”

Following the projects outlined here further phases will also include improvements to sports facilities in our parks and open spaces.

ENDS