New custodians for popular parks

Plans have been approved to progress the transfer of two popular green spaces to Braunstone Town Council. 

The transfers, of Thorpe Astley Park and The Osiers nature area, were approved at Blaby District’s latest Full Council meeting. It means both areas will be kept as open spaces in perpetuity. 

The move follows continuous review of authority-owned parks and open spaces to consider best ownership and management, ensuring they remain sustainable and valuable to people, place and nature. 

The ongoing review is a key part of the Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Strategy 2024-34 which has already seen several areas approved for transfer, including Glen Hills Nature Reserve, Narborough Park, Trinity Park, Jubilee Park and Southey recreational ground. 

More localised management can offer many advantages. Town and parish councils can access funding which the District Council cannot to improve sites, delivering a range of benefits for residents, visitors and park users. 

There may also be more opportunities for local community events, activities and other initiatives.  

At Thorpe Astley, Blaby District Council will carry out drainage works to help flood prevention prior to the transfer. 

While Braunstone Town Council has agreed in principle to take on the two sites, the transfer process is a lengthy one.

Full ownership will be some way off and Blaby District Council will be required to advertise both open spaces for disposal by way of a Public Notice in accordance with the Local Government Act 1972 prior to transfer. 

Councillor Nigel Grundy, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services and Assets, said: "We realise town and parish councils have an in-depth understanding of local needs and the ability to access funding options unavailable to us. This has the potential to provide a vast range of benefits to its residents, visitors and park users.  

"In addition, it allows for the local council to take control of the site offering opportunities for consistency in maintenance regimes, community events, activities, and much more. I'm sure Braunstone Town Council will be outstanding custodians of these two popular green spaces."

Councillor Nigel Grundy
Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services and Assets