Sir Gavin Williamson has joined Friends of ABC Park to call for improvements to the park located on Whitemill Lane in Walton.
Sir Gavin recently joined a meeting coordinated by Friends of ABC to discuss how the park can be improved to maintain as well as advance an important community asset.
Concerns have been raised regarding the safety of play equipment, as well as the condition of the football pitch which is uneven and damaged. Walton Community Centre owns the park, and it is leased to Stafford Borough Council which has caused some confusion as to who is responsible for maintaining the space.
Hannah Banks, Chair of Friends of The ABC Park said: “We are grateful to Sir Gavin Williamson for taking the time to meet with us and listen to the views of local residents and volunteers.
We recognise and value the important role that Walton Community Centre has played in supporting the park and wider community over many years, and we are keen to work constructively with all stakeholders to help maintain that legacy while exploring opportunities to enhance the park for future generations.
“Our shared aim is to ensure the ABC Park remains a valued, welcoming and well-used community space for years to come."
Sir Gavin said: “I was delighted to join Friends of ABC Park to discuss ways that an important community asset can be improved to the required standard.
“Parks are vital recreational spaces and have obvious physical and mental health benefits, as well as bringing the community together to participate in sport.
“It is wonderful to see residents so actively engaged in wanting to improve their local spaces, and I will be working side by side with them to ensure the park can be enjoyed for many years to come.”
