An update from Alison Regester
Chair – Friends of Coney Hall Park
The installation of the new cycle route and three table tennis tables has proved very popular, with lots of positive comments from park users. The removal of fencing has opened up the area, making it visually more attractive and the new path means this area and the four tennis courts beyond are for the first time easily accessible. It is being used by all ages, from toddlers on tricycles, to a 98-year-old taking a walk on his walking frame. So many younger children have learnt to ride their bikes without stabilisers and older children and teenagers enjoy the freedom of so much flat space to cycle on, extending their skills by going on the surrounding grass banks too.
Thanks for this must go to all those who have helped with fundraising, to Bromley Council and idverde who supported us so much and to Conway who provided the ramps and markings free of charge.
Our Inflatables Day in the summer was again well supported and it was lovely to see so many families enjoying themselves. This year we had a quiet session at the beginning, just for families whose children have additional needs. This was much appreciated by those who often find large events too stressful and overwhelming.
This event could not have happened without the army of volunteers who supported us on the day, many of whom joined us for the first time. We raised over £6,000 towards the next phase of our ‘Play for All’ project.
We were congratulated by police and Ward Councillors for managing the event so well, and within an hour or so of finishing the site was completely clear.
Together with members of Environmental Action Coney Hall (EACH), Duke of Edinburgh volunteers and families from Parklands Nursery, 20 new saplings have been planted in the park to enhance biodiversity. The community orchard,
flower beds and wildlife area continue to need volunteers to help with maintenance and litter picking. Sadly we continue to see vandalism and it is disheartening to have to do repairs or clean off graffiti due to the actions of a very small sector of our community.
We will soon apply for an Awards For All grant of £20,000, to ensure that Phase Two of our project – building a court for basketball and football – can
be completed. As everyone is aware, construction costs have rocketed, delaying our schedule.
Provisional dates for your diary
Our AGM
Tuesday 19 November 7.30pm at the Pavilion
Carols in the Park
Sunday 8 December
4.30pm in/outside the Pavilion
If you’re interested in fundraising or helping with our environmental work just get in touch, we’d love to hear from you. Please help us to continue to make a difference to Coney Hall.
Coney Hall Village Residents' Association (CHVRA) 