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A Decade of Dedication: Friends of Gedling Country Park and their incredible contribution.

Date Posted: 4:37 PM on Wed, 31 July 2024

In celebration of the national 'Love Parks Week,' we spent some time with the 'Friends of Gedling Country Park' community group. Approaching their 10-year anniversary this September, these dedicated volunteers have been instrumental in maintaining and enhancing Gedling Country Park, ensuring it remains a cherished green space for the community.

Since the park's opening nine years ago, it has consistently earned the prestigious Green Flag award, a testament to the hard work and commitment of the Friends of Gedling Country Park. Every Sunday, for two hours, this passionate group meets to maintain the park's grounds. Their tasks include tidying, cleaning, and removing weeds and invasive vegetation.

Beyond general maintenance, the group is deeply involved in conservation efforts. They care for the park's diverse wildlife, which includes roe and muntjac deer, rabbits, hares, ducks, and swans. To protect and support the local bird population, volunteers build nest boxes providing safe havens for hatchlings in the trees as well as the picturesque lagoons. The group raised over £14,000 which was used to plant 1,500 trees, shrubs and woodland flowers selected to diversify the wildlife habitats to attract more species to the park. This dedication to wildlife conservation was highlighted during a recent tour arranged by the group, where participants observed an impressive 50 different bird species.

The partnership between Gedling Borough Council and the Friends of Gedling Country Park is an example of what can be achieved through community collaboration. The council provides support and resources, while the volunteers bring their passion and hands-on effort, creating a relationship that benefits the community.

As we celebrate 'Love Parks Week,' it's fitting to recognise and thank the Friends of Gedling Country Park for their dedication over the past decade. Their efforts have not only kept the park beautiful and inviting but have also fostered a sense of community and stewardship that will ensure Gedling Country Park remains a treasured local asset for years to come.

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, John Clarke MBE played a pivotal in transforming the former Gedling Colliery site into the Country Park. He added:

“Gedling Country Park holds a special place in my heart and it is a place I visit regularly with my family. It's incredibly heartening to see how the Friends of Gedling Country Park have nurtured and cared for it, ensuring it remains a vibrant and inviting haven for our community and wildlife alike. Partnerships like this one are vital to ensure Gedling Borough remains a special place for our residents”.