A Plymouth park which had become a haunt for drug dealing and anti-social behaviour has been transformed – thanks to the hard work and commitment of a dedicated group of volunteers.
Victoria Park in Millbridge is now a safe, well used and popular place for families, dog walkers, runners and cyclists and will be showing off everything it has to offer at a special Super Hero Summer Fayre in August.
Michelle Quintrell Chair of the Victoria Park Community Project said:
“In 2016 when it became clear that Victoria Park was slipping into a deep decline we formed a group of volunteers and decided to do something about it. Making contact with Plymouth City Council and Devon and Cornwall Police was an essential step and both parties have been very supportive.”
She added that one of the most difficult part of the revitalisation of the park had been dealing with heavy drug usage and anti-social behaviour.
“Although this had begun to lessen as the Victoria Park Community Project and the popular Pavilion Park Café became established, thanks to the Police and Crime Commissioner releasing funding, along with CCTV and extra lighting it has made a massive difference,” she added.
The efforts of volunteers in tackling dense undergrowth also contributed to the overhaul of the park which now also has picnic benches, large planters and an attractive mural on the football changing room.
Children from local schools have also adopted the park. Stuart Road Primary School planted fruit trees, St Mary’s Primary tackled the re-wilding areas and St Andrew’s pupils assisted in the huge flower and bulb planting effort – as well as having their own flowerbed to learn about wildlife and pollination.
Michelle said that much of this progress would not have happened without tireless fundraising and the dedication of volunteers and other members of the community.
People from all over the city are being invited to see just how much Victoria Park has changed at the Summer Fayre on August 21 between 11am and 5pm.
Michelle said:
“We are holding the first ever Super Hero event, and encourage people to come along dressed as their favourite super hero and we have super heroes coming along at 1.30 pm to visit.
“We also have Emazdad the famous magician, carnival games, fun-tasia inflatables, archery assault and much more. So come along to Victoria Park and have some fun and games.”
