Sir Edward Leigh MP has welcomed news of a government grant to build a new ‘pocket park’ in the Gainsborough constituency.
The Government’s pocket park programme was launched in 2016 to transform neglected urban spaces into thriving green havens for the whole community to use. Increasing green spaces and the number of trees across the country was a key part of the Conservative’s manifesto during last year’s General Election.
St. William's College Green is one of 68 pocket parks across the country, that is under 0.32 hectares in size, that will now receive a share of £1.35 million, enabling community projects to breathe new life into unused and unloved plots of land. This takes the total number of parks to benefit from the scheme to 352 since the programme launched.
The new parks and will provide new green spaces in urban areas across England for children to play, outdoor fitness facilities for residents, and places for families and friends to come together, helping encourage community integration and tackling loneliness.
Commenting, Sir Edward said:
“Pocket Parks are a great government initiative and I am delighted that the Gainsborough constituency is due to receive £12,000 to transform St. William's College Green into a thriving, green space that will hugely benefit the local community.
“This Conservative government is fully committed to supporting initiatives such as this that promote nature and biodiversity, and make our local area an even greener and better place to live”.
Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP commented:
“Pocket parks are used for everything from exercise and gardening to socialising and relaxing. They have huge benefits for our mental and physical health and allow us to take a moment out of our busy lives to connect with nature.
“We are determined to protect our nation’s parks for future generations to enjoy, and on World Wildlife Day, I am delighted to announce the recipients of the extra £1.35 million for the Pocket Parks fund – adding 68 new parks, which will take the total we’ve backed to 352.
“Creating more pocket parks is part of this Government’s ambition to ensure that communities have a real sense of identity and place, and that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy green spaces in their local area.”
