Park users in Cannock have been invited to have their say on £660,000 improvement plans
A Cannock Chase park is set to be improved – and residents are being invited to have their say on future plans.
More than £660,000 has been earmarked for the transformation of Heath Hayes Park in Cannock and a masterplan is being developed.
A public consultation on proposals for the Wimblebury Road green space opened last month and runs until September 14. Cannock Chase Council officers are also working with local schoolchildren and the wider community to co-design the new play area.
Plans for the park include a fully inclusive children’s play area, as well as refurbished football pitches, new changing facilities, toilets and a community room, new visitors’ car park and a “sports plaza” for skating, BMX stunts and scooters. Tree planting has recently taken place at the park too, with woodland walks, a memorial garden a quiet area and a sensory space also part of the proposals.
On Thursday (July 31), members of the council’s cabinet gave the green light to proceed with the development of the park masterplan. They also granted permission to spend £662,850 on the project, which includes a £47,580 grant from the Forest of Mercia.
Heath Hayes and Wimblebury ward councillor Lisa Wilson, cabinet member for parks, culture, and heritage, said she was “absolutely delighted” at the proposal to improve Heath Hayes Park. “It has something for all ages to enjoy,” she added.
“It is fantastic that it will be regenerated. Parks are more than green spaces – for some people, they are an absolute lifeline, particularly families who live in flats and don’t have a lot of outdoor space.”
Friends of Heath Hayes Park are running events at the park during the summer, where further information will be available. Jane Johns, Chair of the Friends of Heath Hayes Park, said: “We’re thrilled to be part of this exciting transformation.
“The park is a valuable space for our community, and these plans will make it even better for families, children, and visitors of all ages. We encourage everyone to come along to our events this summer, have a look at the plans, and share their views.”
For updates on park improvements across the district, visit https://www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/residents/leisure/parks-open-spaces/park-improvements-across-cannock-chase-district.
