The campaign continues as Whitehall Rec plans unveiled
After a long running campaign led by local Liberal Democrat Councillors seeking improvements we welcome the release of detailed designs for planned phased improvements at Whitehall Recreation ground and look forward to the consultation on the final plan. We will be continuing to seek the funding needed for improvements to the Band Stand which is a major heritage asset to Rugby.
Under the improvement plans, the characteristic large open space will be kept but new circulatory footpaths will be added as part of later phases to improve accessibility, particularly for visitors who use mobility scooters, wheelchairs or children's buggies, and to benefit joggers and anyone enjoying a walk in the park. A new memorial garden has been proposed for later works to improve the setting of the grade 2 listed War Memorial Gates and create a new space for commemorative services.
A new adventurous play area offering play provision for all ages and abilities will incorporate the existing historic rocking horse, manufactured many years ago by the company behind Wicksteed Park (and currently marking their centenary).
The play area has been boosted with a grant from The Veolia Environmental Trust which awards grants through the Landfill Communities Fund to support community and environmental projects.
A destination BMX and skate park is also planned, with local skate, scooter and bike enthusiasts currently working with the council on the design, which also forms part of the first phase. An interactive music garden has been suggested to link with the site's musical heritage.
Separate to the phased improvements, essential tree maintenance work was completed in January. These tree works were necessary due to disease and tree structure issues and negative impact on the bandstand. Replacement chestnut trees are being planted to provide successional planting and retain the character of the area. Survey work has also been carried out ahead of future refurbishment of the park band stand.
More information on the planned improvements can be found at www.rugby.gov.uk/whitehallrec