THE COMMUNITY is being called upon to help shape the future of Hillmorton Recreation Ground after Rugby Borough Council (RBC) launched a public consultation.
The council wants people who use the park – also known as Featherbed Lane Rec – to suggest potential improvements as part of a new masterplan.
The consultation follows the demolition of the recreation ground’s 60s-built pavilion in December, which had fallen into disrepair and become a target for vandals.
Following the consultation, a decision will be made to either replace the pavilion or develop other facilities such as play equipment, nature areas or an outdoor gym.
The council refurbished the rec in 2005, and in recent years the skate park, play area and pathways have been revamped.
RBC environment and public realm spokeswoman Coun Lisa Parker said: “Now the pavilion has been demolished we can start to look to the future of Hillmorton Recreation Ground, developing a new masterplan to outline potential improvements.
Rugby Borough Council’s environment and public realm spokeswoman Coun Lisa Parker, pictured with green spaces officer Colin Horton outside Hillmorton Recreation Ground’s dilapidated pavilion before it was demolished in December.
“Just as when we undertook the refurbishment of the recreation ground 14 years ago, we want to involve residents in this process and the consultation marks a first opportunity to voice ideas and help us identify improvements the community want.”
Jim Ellis of the Friends of East Rugby Group said: “We would like to encourage people to respond to the public survey.
“We are excited to see the positive space created when the pavilion came down, but now we need to consider community need, sport and leisure and general facilities – perhaps even a shelter for mums with kids and a small community cafe as a hireable space.
“Get your thinking caps on, include the kids, and let’s see what happens.”
Hillmorton Recreation Ground was granted Queen Elizabeth II Field status in 2012, protecting it as a green space for future generations.
Visit www.rugby.gov.uk/hillmortonrec to take part in the consultation, which closes at 5pm on Tuesday April 23.
