This slideshow requires JavaScript.

At the FOSP AGM 2011 the possibility of a larger scale park refurbishment was raised , and during the autumn we worked on funding applications and plans with a view of updating the compound area in the park. We developed an online survey to canvas park users views and also ran a paper survey for park users and members of the community to give their ideas and views on how they would like to see the space used.We collated these results into a proposal to develop the area into a community sports area, with new surfacing and markings, goals and basketball hoops. People also felt that some art work would also brighten the area. We were delighted when our application to Groundworks for Transform funding of £11,000 was approved and we started working with the local authority to draw up plans for the space at the end of 2011.

As part of this project we developed links with both Stoneydown and St Patricks primary schools in the park, as the project was taking place in an area used by both schools. We also forged links with our local secondary school, Willowfield Humanities college, as students from their BTec Art and design course kindly agreed to decorate the wall with a bright mural. We held a successful launch day when they came to show us their ideas for the wall, and members of the public voted for their favourite design. We now have a stunning mural depicting scenes of transportation in the city from the age of steam to the present day.

We were all delighted when the project was completed in July 2012, and was officially opened by Cllr Richard Swedan the Mayor of Waltham Forest on 21 July. We have successfully collaborated with the local authority and Groundworks to bring this project together, and it is great to see the space being used by so many members of the local community to play games, exercise and have fun.