Above: Chris Worman, Parks Manager (R) and Cllr Dr Mark Williams, portfolio holder for sustainable environment, launch the consultation on redevelopment of Whitehall Recreation Ground.
News Release - Matthew Deaves - Rugby Borough Council
Residents asked for views on restoration of Whitehall Recreation Ground
Rugby Borough Council is to submit a bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund to upgrade and restore Whitehall Recreation ground, and is inviting residents to contribute ideas towards the proposals.
The restoration could lead to an improved setting for the bandstand and memorial gates, new trees planted, a new play area and outdoor gym, and improved lighting and footpaths.
Cllr Dr Mark Williams, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for sustainable environment, said: "Whitehall Recreation Ground is Rugby's oldest public green space and has played a major role in the history of the town for more than 140 years.
"With the opening of the new Queen's Diamond Jubilee Centre in 2013 now is the time to look at how the open space can be restored, complement the leisure centre, and stay at the heart of the community for years to come."
To enable any restoration to reflect how people currently use, or would like to use the open space, the council is launching a consultation to gather peoples memories, thoughts and ideas.
This information will be used to help formulate a funding bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The Whitehall Recreation Ground has seen a number of significant moments in the history of the town, including a visit by HM Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, in 1961, coronation celebrations for King George V in 1911, and the unveiling of the war memorial gates by Field Marshall Earl French of Ypres in 1922.
Rugby Borough Council has previously won Heritage Lottery Funding for the redevelopment of Caldecott Park, which is now the most visited destination in Rugby.
Residents and visitors may find out more about the consultation at www.rugby.gov.uk/whitehallrec, or by looking out for the roadshow materials at venues around the town. The consultation closes on 28 December 2012
