Around 3,500 local people took advantage of activities running throughout the afternoon in celebration of the park’s transformation. These included:
• a Norman battle re-enactment
• the chance to visit a living medieval encampment
• archery and axe throwing
• falconry displays
• a skate jam at the new skate park
• live music from Bishop’s Stortford Band.
Conservation and wildlife groups showcased their work, with Friends of Castle Park giving visitors insight into the work they do to improve the natural habitat of the River Stort and their involvement in archaeological activities. Museum of London Archaeology experts were on hand to talk about the exciting discoveries made during the park’s redevelopment and finds from the recent community dig. For community groups and local charities, including the Royal British Legion, Isabel Hospice and U3A, the event was an opportunity to raise awareness, generate funds and talk about volunteering opportunities.
Councillor Mione Goldspink, Deputy Leader of East Herts Council and Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “It was wonderful to see so many residents enjoying the sunshine, exploring the new amenities and finding out about the heritage and conservation of our beautiful town centre park. Many organisations and individuals have contributed over the past eight years to making Castle Park what it is today. I would like to thank them all.”
Eric Buckmaster, East Herts Councillor and Hertfordshire County Council Executive Member for the Environment, said: “Castle Park is a fantastic addition to the local area, providing benefits to residents and local wildlife, and it was brilliant to see so many people turn out to celebrate its completion. I’d particularly like to thank the county council’s Countryside Management Service for their vital role in designing and delivering the Castle Park Project right from its inception over eight years ago.”
Friends of Castle Park, an enthusiastic group of local volunteers, are involved in a wide range of activities to support wildlife and conservation across the park. Residents interested in getting involved can contact the Friends via their website.
Castle Park’s transformation has been funded by a £2.5m grant from the National Lottery Heritage and Community Funds, together with contributions from East Herts Council and Bishop’s Stortford Town Council and supported by Hertfordshire County Council’s Countryside Management Service. New additions include:
• A park café - The Terrace Park Café & Kitchen - which is open daily, selling refreshments and providing a space for residents to meet and enjoy Castle Park, whatever the weather
• Public toilets which include an accessible Changing Places facility
• Footpaths and bridge links over the River Stort to enhance connectivity and accessibility between Sworders Field and Castle Gardens
• Habitat improvements along the River Stort
• Wildflowers around the Waytemore Castle mound, lighting of the motte at night, and improvements to the war memorial gardens
• The Markwell Studio, a new community space
• British Lawn Tennis Association accredited tennis courts
