Denehurst Park set for three-year makeover

Councillors Surinder and Cecile Biant, staff of Environmental Management at Rochdale Council and volunteers from Friends of Denehurst Park group

Denehurst Park is set to benefit from an improvement programme over the next three years.

Council workers were joined by local volunteers from the friends of Denehurst Park and Councillors Surinder and Cecile Biant in planting Hawthorn and Mountain Ash trees to brighten up the walkway from the side entrance of Willbutts Lane towards Denehurst House.

Additionally, volunteers raised a new park flag which was designed by Natalie Jones of Oulder Hill Community School, to represent the Friends of Denehurst Park group.

The first stage of this ambitious scheme is already complete, with an orchard containing more than 100 apple, pear, plum and cherry trees planted by volunteers.

A scrumping lane with fruit shrubs has also been planted and visitors to the park are encouraged to pick fresh fruit for free once they are in full bloom in the future.

New footpaths, improved drainage and the creation of a new inclusive play area and picnic area, as well as a natural play area and tree sculptures, will all feature as part of the £500,000 revamp, including £373,000 funding from the council, the rest being sought from external grants.

Councillor Neil Emmott, the council’s cabinet member for housing and environment, said: “We’re lucky enough to have some beautiful parks in the borough, with six having coveted green flag status. This ambitious programme will totally transform Denehurst Park over the next three years and I’d encourage people to come along and get involved in one of our volunteer programmes or simply take time out to visit and enjoy this fantastic area.”

The green volunteers work at Denehurst Park every Wednesday, starting in April, from 10am to 12.30pm. Anyone who would like to volunteer and/or join the friends group can contact them via email friendsofdenehurstpark@outlook.com. Volunteers are asked to wear comfortable clothing and training and equipment is provided.

If you would like any further information on the development of Denehurst Park you can contact Michael Buczman on: michael.buczman@rochdale.gov.uk or 01706 922076.