Swindon Country Parks framework proposed to boost preservation and enhancements
Long-term plan aims to secure funding and improve visitor amenities
Tonight, Swindon Borough Council Cabinet Members will review a new framework outlining ambitious plans for the protection and enhancement of five major country parks: Coate Water, Lydiard Park, Mouldon Hill, Stanton Park, and Barbury Castle. If approved, the framework will guide funding efforts geared toward upgrading visitor infrastructure, improving environmental quality, and ensuring these parks remain safe and welcoming spaces.
Over 2,000 residents offered feedback during a public consultation last summer, highlighting areas for improvement within Swindon's parks. Public preferences focused on practical enhancements like upgrading parking payment machines, improved park signage, and better toilet facilities, all of which have been incorporated into the proposed framework.
Beyond infrastructure upgrades, the framework envisions an expanded role for the parks in supporting nature recovery and community activities. Opportunities for volunteering, learning, and events will aim to enrich visitor experience and foster community engagement.
Work is already underway in certain areas, such as reviewing worn sections of the Lydiard parkrun route to bolster visitor safety, exploring conservation grazing at Barbury Castle to enhance biodiversity, and expanding ranger-led activities that educate visitors on nature and heritage.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking, expressed appreciation for resident input during the consultation:
“This document sets out our ambition for the parks and gives us a clear starting point for protecting what people love about these places while gradually improving the experience for visitors...Their views have helped shape this framework and highlighted some of the practical improvements people would most like to see.”
The proposed framework not only prioritizes pressing visitor needs like access, paths, and facilities, but also looks ahead to identifying new opportunities to enhance the parks. It underscores a holistic approach to managing Swindon’s cherished green spaces while celebrating each park's unique character and history.