The idea
The Friends of FPP recently applied for and successfully won a grant to extend the park. We are currently working with architects and a construction contractor with an anticipated completion and opening event later this year.
But we are also devastated that Fenham Pool has closed due to unforeseen repairs it needs! If you know Fenham you will know that it is a great community with bags of potential but it lacks wealth and investment compared with our rich neighbours in Gosforth and Jesmond.
Planting the newly extended park with stunning flowers and trees, keeping it topped up with compost and making sure we have the tools to keep it well-tended and watered costs a lot of money. Maintenance and repairs are also a big cost - and that is before we hold events with community groups, schools and the general public.
Help us put Fenham on the map for its wonderful park, and be part of laying the foundation for spreading joy to Fenham residents!!
What we'll deliver
- We will create a beautifully presented community ran and park all year round open to all in Fenham and beyond.
- We will hold 6 volunteer-ran events in the next 12 months promoting the environment and community cohesion in Fenham.
Why it's a great idea
Fenham and the surrounding areas are economically deprived and culturally diverse. Fenham has the potential to compete with thriving Newcastle suburbs like Gosforth, Heaton and Jesmond, but there are substantially less local amenities including quality green space, and greater challenges with community cohesion.
Newcastle is overprovided in green space but of poorer quality and unevenly distributed. A Council assessment in 2009 highlighted Fenham as particularly badly supplied.
FPP resulted from a research project with local people who identified the area outside Fenham library and pool as underused and uninviting, with potential as a hub bringing together the benefits of several local schools, shops and businesses, and a GP Surgery close by. Following successful initial development and funding, the Friends of FPP, a 100% voluntary community group has ran the park.
For FPP to deliver on its potential, we need to keep it well supplied and maintained bringing joy to all!!
Steps to get it done
- Opening of the extended park in 2019 fully planted and ready for use by the general public and community groups.
The Council has upgraded Fenham library and invested in a health and wellbeing hub for late-stage drug and alcohol recovery. Partners have come together with a long-term commitment to improve the area and increase community participation. The park provides opportunities for supported gardening and community events including users of the hub.
