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26 Oct 99

POOLE PARK CONSULTATION RESULTS

The results of consultation on the future of Poole Park will be heard at a public meeting on Thursday 28 October 1999.

Residents and local interest groups have been invited to hear the outcome of the 2,807 questionnaires and 253 face to face survey's carried out on the Poole Park Management Plan proposals during August and September. The consultation forms part of a £3 million bid by the Borough of Poole for Heritage Lottery funding for the restoration and protection of the park.

Opened in 1890 by HRH the Prince of Wales, the Management Plan aims to restore the original design by Thomas Elford and improve the management and maintenance of the park.

From the proposals, two areas raised the strongest views: closure of the road between the mini-marina roundabout and Whitecliff Road Entrance and control of Canada Geese.
Of those who completed the questionnaire, 58% disagreed with the road closure and 37% agreed with the closure. In the face to face survey, 17% disagreed with the road closure and 73% agreed with closing the road.

Other proposals included:
· Managing the park's water quality
· Restoring cricket pavilions and lodges
· Use of the nursery site as a training facility for people with disabilities
· Developing a Play Zone and moving the children's play area
· Moving the boat hire concession to the lake edge in place of the existing mini marina
· Introducing new islands to the main lake to add interest and visual appeal
· Providing a new railway station and engine shed

David Neudegg, Head of Leisure Services, said: "Overall there was broad support for the proposals with some issues such as controlling the Geese and use of the nursery receiving over 75% support. From the responses we have had, it is clear that many people want to see the impact of traffic on the Park reduced and we will be looking at alternatives as well as some of the suggestions made during the consultation to see how this can be achieved. This meeting is a chance for everyone to hear the results of the consultation which will help to shape the future of this important and popular facility".

Local residents, persons with an interest in the area, together with representatives from local organisations, are welcome to attend the meeting which take place in the Conference Room, Civic Centre, Poole at 7.30pm.

-ends-

David Neudegg, Head of Leisure Services, Borough of Poole, tel: (01202) 261314