Turfed out Pocket park for plan Boots Corner would get rid of artificial grass
WORK to create a newly designed ‘pocket park’ at Boots Corner in Cheltenham is set to begin in the new year.
The design for the new space at Clarence Fountain will give shoppers and visitors a much improved and accessible experience, according to Cheltenham Borough Council.
Borough council leaders say they have led and invested in the development of more attractive and sustainable permanent improvements to the plinth surrounding the Fountain since Gloucestershire County Council’s decision to re-open the junction of Clarence Street and High Street to all traffic following the trial temporary closure.
The plinth had temporary seating and artificial grass installed as part of the trial closure.
The council says these measures have successfully enabled the plinth to be well used by residents and visitors alike but it has always been their intention to create and deliver a more permanent, attractive, green space for everyone to enjoy.
The proposed upgrades are expected to cost around £85,000 and will include the addition of planting and trees to create a ‘pocket park’ which will encourage biodiversity and improve air quality.
And the design also includes improved seating, space for wheelchairs to make the area more inclusive, as well as a more attractive and durable resin bound finish with steel skirt.
The project is expected to take six weeks to complete.
Cabinet member for climate emergency Max Wilkinson (Lib Dem, Oakley) said: “This pocket park will make a massive difference to the town centre making the area greener and more attractive, with places for people to sit.
“We’ve listened to what people have said about the artificial grass. It was only ever a temporary thing and I’m pleased that we can now replace it with something better for the environment and create a space that’s inclusive for wheelchair users too.
“We remain committed to ensuring that Cheltenham punches above its weight and continues to attract investment – even though we are doing well compared to a lot of other places, we know there’s a lot more work to be done.’’
Alex Rose, chair of Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID) and managing director of Beards Jewellers, said he was was really glad to see Cheltenham Borough Council investing further in updating the High Street.
“Our family have been trading in Cheltenham for nearly 220 years so we’ve seen Cheltenham change significantly over the years,” he said.
“What will now be delivered will not only create a focal point for shoppers, but will also enhance the area for the surrounding businesses.”
The enhancements and renovation at the fountain forms part of a wider council programme alongside the work of the Cheltenham Economic Recovery Task Force which focuses on supporting the town’s economic recovery.
Council leaders are expected to approve the Clarence Fountain proposals at a meeting later this month.
This pocket park will make a massive difference to the town centre making the area greener and more attractive, with places for people to sit
Max Wilkinson