A new community park has opened in the heart of Melksham, transforming an unused field behind The Canberra Youth Centre on Spa Road into a green space for the whole community to enjoy.
Residents gathered on Saturday 1st March for the opening of The Canberra Centre Community Park, which includes accessible pathways, a community orchard, an edible hedge, a mini arboretum and a sensory garden.
The project was a collaboration between 4Youth (South West) and Spurgeons Children’s Charity, both of which use the Canberra Centre.
One of the most unique features of the park is its diverse range of trees. “To help visitors appreciate these beautiful trees, a special information noticeboard is planned for installation once funding is secured,” explained Jon Hubbard, chair of 4Youth.
The park also includes a community orchard, which in a few years will offer free fresh fruit to visitors, and edible hedges that will produce a variety of fruits for community use. In the near future, raised planters will be installed in the area, providing space for community-led gardening projects.
“The space is designed to be an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of the community,” says Jon. “While some finishing touches, such as additional bins and the completion of seating areas, are still on their way, the park already provides a fantastic resource for local residents.”
During the opening of the park, there was a performance from local band The Sunnies and a resident playing the accordion. There was also a speech from Jon Hubbard, who welcomed residents and officially opened the area.
“The opening was a truly exciting day for Melksham,” says Jon. “We have taken a space that was underused for so long and transformed it into a place where people of all ages can come together, enjoy the outdoors, and build a stronger sense of community. This park is here for everyone, and we want to make sure it remains a welcoming and well-maintained space for generations to come.”
The site carries special historical significance, having originally been purchased to provide a recreational hall for service personnel during World War II. It was named the Canberra Centre in recognition of the funds raised by the people of New South Wales, Australia. Today, thanks to the commitment of local organisations and volunteers, the space has been given a new lease of life, offering modern facilities for all to enjoy.
Plans are also in place to install low-level lighting that will enhance the space while ensuring minimal disruption to neighbours. Additionally, CCTV has been installed to help protect the park and its users, ensuring it remains a safe and enjoyable space for everyone.
Be a Friend of Canberra Community Park
To maintain the space for future generations, residents are invited to join the voluntary group Friends of Canberra Community Park.
“We don’t want your money, although we wouldn’t say no! What we really need is a little of your time,” says Jon. “By joining as a Friend of Canberra Community Park, you can play a key role in preserving and enhancing this wonderful resource for everyone in Melksham. Whether it’s helping with upkeep, supporting new initiatives, or simply spreading the word, your involvement will make a real difference.”
Acknowledgements
“This project would not have been possible without the dedication and support of many individuals and organisations. Special thanks go to: Milestone, SSE, Wiltshire Council, and Spurgeons for sparing their staff to support action days. Tarmac, Melksham Town Council, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Great Western Community Forest, and the Coronation Living Heritage Orchard Grant for their generous funding contributions.
“Friends of Giffords Surgery for sponsoring one of the park’s beautiful benches. The family who generously funded a second bench in memory of two mums lost to cancer, ensuring a lasting tribute in their honour. Naomi Stokes from Wiltshire Council and Carl Houghton from Spurgeons, without whom this project could never have happened. Their dedication, expertise, and passion have been instrumental in making this park a reality.”
For more information on how you can get involved, email hello@4youth.org.uk
Above: Chairman of 4Youth Jon Hubbard and MP Brian Mathew plant a ceremonial tree with members of the community at the opening of the community park
Above: The Sunnies performed at the opening
Above: Local clubs and organisations at the event
Above: Planting the ceremonial tree
