We have launched a survey to gather views on how a programme of improvements to Bushey’s King George Recreation Ground could take shape.
We recently agreed to allocate £590,000 developer contributions, known as ‘Community Infrastructure Levy’ (CIL) funding, to improvements to the Green Flag-awarded park. These proposals include a new café and improved play areas for younger and older children.
The CIL panel also recognised the historic problems with the splash park and agreed to support a bid to ensure a reliable facility for children to enjoy.
Cllr Chris Myers, Portfolio Holder for Street Scene, Parks, Leisure and Culture, commented: “King George is an absolutely fantastic park which has long held a Green Flag award, is much-loved by the local communities in Bushey and is actively supported by a wonderful Friends group.
“Our wide-ranging survey seeks views on various themes and park zones and how the funding could be best allocated. People can respond either online or by writing to us, so that those without access to the internet can participate.
“I’m acutely aware that the recent unreliability of the splash park at times has caused immense frustration for many park users and it’s obviously extremely disappointing for the youngsters that love this facility. We will actively direct further CIL funding to improve it if that’s what residents want.
“The splash park has presented us with intermittent challenges since its conversion from a paddling pool in 2017 and our Parks team has worked hard, along with contractors, to address faults as they have arisen. Whilst recent faults have been a relatively minor matter, they have meant use has been disrupted. We’ve taken steps to keep it open this summer but unfortunately when the splash park is busiest we need to periodically rest and reset the equipment. We are clear now what the issues are and have set out options for a more reliable facility for the future.
“The survey focuses on various elements of the park including the café and toilets; younger children’s play; older children’s play and the splash park.
“These kinds of projects are exactly what CIL funding was designed to support so I’m excited to see what the future holds and hope that our local communities will get involved and help us shape these improvements."
The survey can be found here.
Alternatively, you can email the our Parks team with your views at parks.consultation@hertsmere.gov.uk or write to Parks Department, Hertsmere Borough Council, Civic Offices, Elstree Way, Borehamwood WD6 1WA.
Posted on Wednesday 7th August 2024