A range of renovation works, new planting, and new facilities are part of the programme including upgrading the children’s play area, building a new small skate park and improving walkways for connectivity.
More trees are being planted to add to Watford’s tree canopy (currently 18.2%, which is higher than the national average of 16%) and along with this, a new wildflower meadow has been created. As well as making the park even more beautiful, these initiatives will support biodiversity and improve the soil, climate and the environment.
Local residents and park visitors will be invited to become a part of the programme by establishing a Friends of Garston Park volunteer group. The work started on the 10th of February and is now nearly finished.
Last summer the council shared their vision for the park with the hundreds of people who took part in the Garston Park Fun Day of live music, crafts, and games. People responded very positively to the proposals and shared their own ideas which has helped shape the council’s plans.
In February, Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor said “I am delighted that we have started work on our improvements to Garston Park, an important manifesto commitment of mine. This is part of our ongoing commitment to keep improving parks and green spaces in Watford for children and adults alike to enjoy. The investment in Garston Park will ensure there will be plenty of opportunities to get active, have fun, and enjoy being outdoors. We work hard to make sure we have fantastic parks and green spaces and that work will continue.”
Twelve of Watford’s parks and green spaces have been awarded Green Flag status, an award given to the best parks in the country. You can find out more about Watford’s open spaces here.