Reading Greens want to make residents aware of the new consultation on the future of Palmer Park. Local Green Rob White has been handing out consultation papers to park users.

The consultation focuses on improving the play area on the corner of St Bartholomews and Wokingham roads, moving some of the car parking and the recycling site and some wildlife improvements. Comments need to be received by the council by the end of Wednesday, July 8.

This consultation follows on from a previous one in 2005.

Giving some background, local Green Rob White, who missed out on becoming Reading's first Green councillor by just 20 votes in 2008 said: "Earlier in the year, the Council were removing hedges and trees from the Park. I asked to see the park plan. Initially I was told that I would be sent to one, however, it never materialised."

"Following on from more discussions with the Council, it became apparent that they did not have a plan. This was because the 2005 consultation was focused around replacing the Arthur Hill swimming pool with a new one in the park. This is now not going to happen in the foreseeable future. Without the centrepiece, there was no plan."

On the subject of the consultation, Rob said: "The improvements to the play area look great to me, but I will wait to hear what the kids say. I am pleased to see some improvements for wildlife in the consultation, but there is no mention of replacing the large section of old hedge, which was removed and was a great habitat for birds. I also have some concerns over what looks like an expansion of car parking and there is no mention whatsoever about replacing the grotty toilet."

"Finally, at a higher level, I am concerned that there is no mention of the other play area in the park -- East Reading Adventure Playground Association -- I sincerely hope that the Council is not going to be neglecting this facility that serves the Newtown area well. I shall be taking these concerns up with the Council."

"I would urge members of the public to get hold of a copy of the consultation from the Palmer Park Library and have their say on the future of their Park."

ENDS

Notes for the Editor

1. For more information please contact Rob White on 07985 923938 or 0118 9667183.
2. Green Park Ward candidate Rob White polled 994, and came within 20 votes of becoming Reading's first Green councillor at the last local elections in Reading. At the last general election he stood in Reading East and increased the Green vote by over 50% polling 1548.

Printed and promoted by Robert White, 22 Cumberland Rd, Reading, RG1 3LB. Both on behalf of Reading Green Party.