Green spaces can provide the catalyst to bring communities together and Bradford Council’s Bowling Park is a prime example of how that can work in practice.

With changes in the management of the park, the Friends group wanted to ensure that they were fit for purpose to protect their green space. 

The group developed fundraising strategies and a business plan for the long-term sustainability of the park. They also engaged the local community – discovering that the heritage of Bowling Park galvanised local communities into feeling protective about its future.

For some it was the first time they had seen the park as it was in the past and this stimulated a large amount of discussion and interest in preserving the park environment for future generations.

David Brickman of the Friends Group

By showing how a well-managed park can offer vital breathing space and much-needed facilities, the Friends have recruited new volunteers and involve more local people from diverse communities.

David Brickman of the Friends Group said: “The funding received was vital in securing the long-term future of the Friends of Bowling Park group and in particular improving its reach into the local community. For some it was the first time they had seen the park as it was in the past and this stimulated a large amount of discussion and interest in preserving the park environment for future generations.”