Future looks bright for Whitehall Rec

A topographical survey began on the site, also known as the Rugby Recreation Ground, on Friday (5 May), and restoration work on the bandstand is scheduled to begin later in the year.

A consultation on restoration of the recreation ground was held in late 2012 as part of an unsuccessful bid for lottery funding, but now alternative funding has been identified that will allow a phased programme of improvements.

The first phase, which will be funded by Section 106 payments already allocated, will see the bandstand made safe and restored to allow it to come back into use, as well as a new play area and skate park.

Later phases will bring improvements to the pathways and planting, making the war memorial more accessible to veterans and other visitors with disabilities, tree planting to restore the planted avenues as the existing trees approach their end of life, an outdoor gym and public art. These later improvements will be scheduled as grant funding is identified.

Residents and community groups are being asked to give the council feedback so that their suggestions can be incorporated in the final plans.

Sean Lawson, Head of Environment and Public Realm at Rugby Borough Council, 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.

Now protected as a park forever as a Fields in Trust protected site, it's time to look at how the park can be restored and stay at the heart of the community for years to come."

Residents and visitors can find out more about the park and consultation at www.rugby.gov.uk/whitehallrec, or by looking out for consultation materials at venues around the town.

Previous work overseen by Rugby Borough Council has resulted in community-led improvements at Hollowell Way in Brownsover, at Gladstone Green pocket park in New Bilton, and the Green Flag winning Centenary Park in Newbold.