MELKSHAM Town Council is committed to improving and making the most of King George V Park after the success of children’s summer sports roadshows over the holidays.
Deputy town clerk Miriam Zaccarelli said, “One of the highlights in Melksham this summer was the very popular Summer Sports Roadshows. These were free activity days put on by Melksham Town Council every Tuesday and Thursday in the summer holidays.
“There were bouncy castles, sports activities and mini assault courses for children, and as well as being a great opportunity for families to bring picnics and enjoy the lovely park, there were refreshments on sale in the cricket pavilion.
“It just goes to show what can be done and what an asset the park is.
“The town council will be considering ways to improve King George V Park and welcome any suggestions or comments.”
Adrienne Westbrook, one of the councillors who helped out at the Pavilion, said, “It was amazing to see the park so busy with happy children enjoying the activities provided.
“It’s one of the reasons why the town council is looking to take over the park from Wiltshire Council, who own it currently. It would be great if the park is owned and run by the town itself.
Miriam Zaccarelli continued, “Melksham Town Council recognises the enormous potential offered by the park and has prioritised King George V Park as a major objective in its plans for the town, as a major asset for Melksham and a key green space for people to socialise, play and exercise.
“It is also the site of some of Melksham’s major events including the Carnival Fun Day, Party in the Park and the Melksham Food and River Festival using the fantastic space there every year for thousands of people to enjoy themselves.
“The park is owned by Wiltshire Council, which has had to reduce its spending on the park this year. As a result the grass was only being cut once a month.
“Realising the value of the park, Melksham Town Council decided to pay for an additional cut every month during the summer.
“The grass is now cut every two weeks, with Wiltshire Council paying for one cut, and Melksham Town Council paying for the other. The same scheme is taking place in the cemetery.”
If you have anything to say about the park or ideas for the future, please send them to miriam@melkshamtown.co.uk or call 01225 899916.
Feedback from anyone who attended the Free Sports Roadshows over the summer would also be welcomed.
