The North Finchley Town Team have been successful in bidding for funds to transform the only available potential green space in our High Street, and although it is much loved and used by local children, it has been neglected and has a history of anti-social behaviour. We are looking to create a community space that everyone can use and enjoy. From children playing after school to local workers eating their lunch to creating a space where people can come to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Our goal is to create an environment that enhances current usage of the park with educational, environmental and community touch points and also creates a space that people will be proud of, will want to visit and that can be used for community activities and events.
Pte Parr, the first soldier from the Commonwealth to die in the WW1 lived locally and a memorial to Pte Parr is planned for inclusion in the playground.
What we'll deliver:
- Memorial for Pte Parr
- Renew surface so it is 'play friendly'
- Replace children's outdated play equipment
- Create a green space by planting trees and shrubs
- Create additional seating facilities
- Improve accessibility and make playground more welcoming
Why it's a great idea:
As well as providing the only potential green space near to the busy, vibrant High Road of North Finchley. Percy Road playground is adjacent to a local primary school which has no green space of its own and faces directly onto the town's main car park, so would provide visual enhancement to the very busy, grey, congested polluted area. Currently the playground is split into two play areas for very young and older children but lacks any real, appealing space to sit, relax and meet for adults or activity for young adults.
Percy Road Playground has been very neglected and is in need of real community TLC!
Steps to get it done:
- Appoint landscape architects
- Engage and consult with the community to gain initial input for design and to create excitement about the project
- Launch Event
- Work with Barnet Council to commission and implement the works
- Work with local charities to assist with clearing the site
- Work with the adjacent primary school (Northside) to create, build on and develop the design of the park.
- Work with the local allotment holders to create a planting programme with local children and older people
Other than essential maintenance, the playground has not been refurbished in 25 years and is in desperate need of funding so that we can bring it back to life and have a playground that the community can be proud of and use.
