Westcroft Green Space Project
Creating a Green Space for Everyone
The Westcroft Green Space Project aims to enhance Westcroft Green Space as an attractive, accessible, and environmentally friendly community asset for residents of all ages.
The project is being shaped by community feedback and focuses on creating a balanced space for play, fitness, relaxation, nature, and wellbeing, whilst preserving the green and open character of the site.
Project Background
Westcroft Green Space is a valued community green space within Saxilby. Following requests from residents to explore improvements to the area, Saxilby with Ingleby Parish Council launched a community consultation to help shape the future of the site.
The consultation included surveys, community displays, engagement events, and opportunities for residents of all ages to share their views. Particular engagement was received from children, young people, and families.
The consultation findings have helped establish a clear vision for the future development of the space and continue to guide the project as designs are developed.
Consultation Update
The community consultation on the future of Westcroft Green Space has now closed, and we would like to thank everyone who took the time to share their views.
A total of 468 responses were received through surveys, engagement activities, events, and community displays, helping to build a clear picture of how the space is currently used and what improvements matter most to residents.
What We Heard
The consultation showed strong support for improving Westcroft Green Space, with some clear priorities emerging:
· Increased use of the space is likely if improvements are made.
· Strong support for natural play opportunities, sensory spaces, and seating.
· A clear desire to keep the space green, wildlife-friendly, and accessible.
· Support for balancing active recreation with quieter areas.
· Interest from residents in volunteering and helping to care for the space.
· Support for a zoned design that accommodates different users and activities.
Read the Full Report
A full consultation report has been completed, providing a detailed breakdown of the findings and recommendations.
View the Westcroft Green Consultation Report here: Consultation Report
Progress So Far
Since the consultation closed, work has continued to develop ideas and designs for the site.
Developing the Active Zone
The Working Group has developed a vision and design brief for the active zone, focusing on inclusive play and movement opportunities for children and families.
Site visits have taken place with several specialist play and fitness providers, including:
· Kompan
· Proludic
· Playdale
· Rhino Play
· Online Playgrounds
Draft design options are currently being prepared and evaluated.
Developing the Relaxation Zone
Plans have been approved in principle for a relaxation area incorporating:
· Sensory planting
· Native trees
· Seasonal bulb planting
· Accessible seating
· Quiet space signage
The Working Group has also approved the installation of a new bench and associated planting improvements.
Developing the Imagination Zone
The project team is exploring a range of imaginative play features, including:
· A community story chair
· Recycled tyre play features
· Natural play opportunities
· A future living willow tunnel
Funding and Partnerships
The council continues to explore grant funding and partnership opportunities to support delivery of the project and maximise investment in the site.
Next Steps
The next phase of the project will focus on turning community aspirations into deliverable designs.
Current priorities include:
· Finalising draft play and fitness designs.
· Developing detailed planting and sensory area proposals.
· Securing external funding opportunities.
· Preparing resident consultation on proposed play and fitness equipment.
· Progressing installation of the relaxation zone.
· Exploring community volunteering opportunities.
Residents will have a further opportunity to provide feedback once design proposals have been developed.
Project Timeline
Completed
· Community consultation undertaken.
· Consultation report published.
· Project vision and design brief developed.
· Initial relaxation zone proposals agreed.
· Site visits with play and fitness providers completed.
In Progress
· Development of play and fitness designs.
· Funding applications and partnership opportunities.
· Detailed planting and landscaping proposals.
· Community engagement planning for the next phase.
Future Phases
· Resident consultation on draft designs.
· Installation of relaxation zone features.
· Delivery of play and fitness improvements.
· Additional planting and biodiversity enhancements.
· Development of imaginative play features.
· Living willow tunnel installation (planned for 2027).
Consultation Report
The full consultation report is available to read online and provides detailed findings from the community engagement process.
Consulatation Report
Get Involved
The consultation highlighted that many residents would like to support the future development of Westcroft Green Space.
As the project progresses, there may be opportunities to assist with:
· Community planting days
· Environmental improvement projects
· Volunteering activities
· Ongoing care and maintenance initiative
Further information will be shared as opportunities become available
Minutes and Agendas
Minutes and agendas from the Westcroft Green Space Working Group meetings can be viewed below
