PRESS RELEASE - Spring 2025
The Park Building was bequeathed to the Westwood Parish Council in 1981 but since the
nursery closed in 2019 the Parish Council has struggled to attract a new lease holder due
to the existing covenants that state that the park [and by inference the park building] must
be maintained as an amenity for the enjoyment of the Westwood Parish and may not be
developed for any other purpose. Legal advice has indicated that the building cannot be
used for residential or solely commercial purposes, but community-based activities and not for profit amenity-based businesses would be permitted. The Council also wishes to ensure that any future use does not become a nuisance to neighbouring properties or jeopardise other existing amenities within the Parish.
A small number of expressions of interest have been received and having reviewed the
various options, the Parish Council intends to pursue a proposal to develop a Community
Hub in partnership with Meadow in My Garden who are a not-for-profit community interest company based in Freshford (see www.meadowinmygarden.co.uk). This proposal includes the following activities:
- Establish a community garden including flowerbed meadows, fruit & vegetables.
- Breathe new life into the building, creating a beautiful, inclusive & welcoming space.
- Run regular nature-based workshops, activities and talks for local interest groups.
- Establish a nature-based library and drop-in facility for biodiversity advice.
- Work on collaborative projects with the Westwood Parish Council & Westwood
Biodiversity Group to revitalise community spaces and address biodiversity needs.
Further details will be posted at www.westwoodparishcouncil.co.uk. The Parish Council is
keen to involve the community and encourages feedback on this proposal by email
to: clerk@westwoodparishcouncil.gov.uk