Park could hit Lotto jackpot
CASH WOULD FUND IMPROVEMENTS
PARTS of Trafford’s Longford Park could be overhauled if a multi-million-pound lottery bid is successful.
Volunteer group Friends of Longford Park have been working since last year to secure funds to make a catalogue of improvements.
Town hall bosses are also involved in the project and will host a public drop-in session today to find out what changes park visitors would like to see.
Group chairman Nigel Woodcock said as much as £3m could be raised if the project is backed by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
“It would be amazing if we could secure the funds,” he said.
“However, we are only in the infant stages of the bid and really do need the support of the community to help make the project a success.
“We need as many people as possible to comment and help shape the masterplan. Essentially it’s all about delivering improvements that residents want to see.”
Among the proposed improvements are:
The popular Pet’s Corner, currently home to chickens, guinea pigs, rabbits, ducks, and Gandalf and Frodo the two goats could be expanded;
Improvements to the Shippon and Longbarn buildings, currently in disrepair;
The tennis courts and football pitches could be upgraded;
A new tree trail could be created;
The remains of the entrance to the former Longford Hall could also be improved.
Meanwhile, council boss in charge of environment and air quality, Coun Steve Adshead, also called for the public to take part in the consultation.
“Longford Park is a major asset for Stretford in terms of its open space and environmental role, but also in terms of local history, culture, health and wellbeing, place shaping, play, sport and leisure,” he said.
“It is important that as many people as possible get involved with this project so that we can develop a really strong masterplan and bid.”
The drop-in session will be held at the Trafford Athletics Stadium in the Longfords Suite today, March 5, from 4pm to 7 pm.
For more information, visit friendsoflongfordpark.org.uk