In 2019, working together with local charity, The Parks Foundation, Alexandra Park was selected as one of three BCP region ‘Pilot Parks’ in the Future Parks project. With the aim of developing “A sustainable parks service for the 21st century” we tested ideas for the future management, funding and improvement of green spaces. We explored ways of increasing biodiversity and inspiring local residents about the environment, and examined ways in which we can successfully bring urban community parks to life through, for example, access improvements, events & activities, community gardens, and reimagining the future of two existing park cafés (at Alexander Park and Winton Recreation Ground) as community hubs– ensuring the local community were engaged throughout the process. In March 2021 we began making physical changes and delivering activities to involve more local people at these spaces.

With the communities engaged, and a successful a grant award of £224,000 from the Green Recovery Challenge Fund, The Parks Foundation discussed and created ‘Nature Recovery Plans’ for the three Pilot Parks (others were Winton Recreation Ground and Waterman’s Park in Christchurch) alongside a further eight parks, with the aim of creating a nature recovery network across our local area. Project goals included increased wildlife habitat through the Nature Recovery plans, and the development of a range of inspiring activities for residents to connect with nature on their doorstep, empowering communities with opportunities to get involved.

• Visit Parks Foundation | Future Parks project for details of initial improvements made at all three ‘Pilot Parks’ in the BCP area

Alexandra Park

Improvements 2021-22

Thank you to everyone who has participated and shared their priorities for improving Alexandra Park. Below is an overview of the improvements carried out so far:

• New benches installed at the front of the pavilion
• New surfacing for the Multi Use Games Are
• Planting the entrances to the park
• We have also established a successful community garden on the Pavilion Green, together with a volunteer group which looks after the crop. Food grown is donated to local people through working with other charities and organisations.

Inspiration for the planting plan

On the Pavilion Green

We have created a community garden on the Pavilion Green! We are making it a place that everyone can use and be proud of. Share your ideas, help raise funds or roll up your sleeves and get handy with a hammer and spade! No prior experience needed.

Future updates to this project will be found below, from our News section