By the time you receive this newsletter the landscape works in Ouseburn Parks will be completed. Although there will still be some additional works to implement and the inevitable snags to contend with, I think I can safely say that the major period of disruption is over. This has been the largest single investment in the Parks since Lord Armstrong began laying out Jesmond Dene in the 1800s. If he were alive today I think he would be pleased with the works and happy that the City Council has kept to their agreement under the deed of covenant. The list of improvements is too long to mention here, but I would like to point out some notable features:- The new Visitor Centre is now fully open and provides a base for staff working in the Parks. The building is modern in design but fits into the landscape well. The building is starting to win awards, including one from the Royal Institute for Chartered Surveyors and one from the Royal Institute for British Architects. The footpath network throughout Jesmond Dene has been vastly improved with new edging and surfacing. This has been complemented with more areas for sitting, where people can relax and take in the peace and tranquillity. You will soon notice interpretation boards situated at notable features throughout the Parks including the Banqueting Hall, St Mary’s Chapel and King John’s Palace, allowing visitors to learn more about them and their history. I would recommend a trip to Heaton Park to take a look at the new entrance off Heaton Road. The old bowling green has been relandscaped and the ancient King John’s Palace is now set in wonderful surroundings with paths, planted areas and seating. Although the building and landscape works are nearing an end, work on the project continues apace and the army of people, who give up their time for free, help to move this forward. Volunteers have been involved in a vast range of projects to make the Parks a better place for you. These include practical tasks, planning and organising events, researching the history of the Parks, leading guided walks, developing the website, attending Friends’ meetings, writing this newsletter, recording wildlife and bee keeping - to mention a few! I cannot over emphasise the importance that we place on the volunteers. The passion and commitment that I have witnessed over the past few years is astounding. The number of people who are coming forward to help is increasing, but there’s always room for more. Without the help of the volunteers this project could not achieve half as much as it is achieving at the moment. Seamus Tollitt Ouseburn Parks’ Manager
Ouseburn Parks’ Events October 2011 to March 2012 (Contact the Rangers for more information, 0191 281 2082 or 07966 264391) Sunday 2 October, 1.30 - 3.30pm, Bulb Planting and Autumn Nature Trail. Education Classroom - Ouseburn 6