Most villagers consider ourselves very fortunate to have over 200 acres of recreational green space right on our doorstep, at the southern edge of Ruddington.
Since being created, thirty years’ ago, Rushcliffe Country Park has become a magnet for walkers, cyclists and nature lovers in general – as well as hosting numerous, regular events including the weekly walks, park runs and the brand new skatepark, which all attract visitors here from far and wide.
Now the many users of Ruddington’s Country Park ark are being asked to give their opinions in a bitesize survey, designed to help shape the park’s features – as well as to gauge how and when they travel to and use the site. The new research is being run by Rushcliffe Borough Council (RBC) until the end of September.
Responses could help develop subsequent new visitor attractions, features and car parking to inform a wider consultation next year. Parking in particular has become an issue – with villagers frustrated by some visitors choosing to park their vehicles down Asher Lane, rather than in the official car park accessed via Mere Way.
The authority says the survey will also assist with its continued application for annual Green Flag accreditation – which it still holds – but requires regular views and feedback from park users. Whether you use the park more than once a week, or just once a year, your views are being sought to help shape wider assessments and ongoing improvements in future years.
RBC’s Deputy Chief Executive and Director for Neighbourhoods, Dave Banks, says: “If you use the Country Park, please inform us of more details in this short survey that takes no longer than five minutes to complete. We’re always looking at ways we can improve this much-loved park and receiving customer feedback plays a vital role in helping new and existing generations enjoy it even more. It will help inform a wider consultation next year that may suggest possible new features and ways to improve car parking, for example.”
He adds: “Information on when and how you travel to the site and what you do when you arrive here will be greatly received. Thank you in advance if you take the time to help us shape our ideas going forward for an even better park.”
The news follows decommissioning of the Park’s wind turbines last month so alternative renewable energy technology can be used for the site’s power. The park’s Education Centre and separate toilet block and tool store will also soon undergo a wider refurbishment to make use of its green spaces including installation of solar panels to generate over 80% of the energy requirements of the site. This is due to start later this year and will include enhanced toilet facilities and a takeaway café.
Meantime, paper surveys are available to pick up and complete in person at the park’s office, during opening hours from 8am to 4pm each day, or you can simply complete the survey online >>HERE<< by the closing date of Thursday September 30th.
