Friends of Victoria Park started as a loose-knit campaigning group in 2013 to oppose poorly controlled parking of caravans and cars on Victoria Park in August during the National Bowls Championships.

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With the massive support of over 1,500 signatories to our petition, we ensured that caravan parking was moved elsewhere and that car parking is better managed in a much smaller area than previously.

 

Since 2017 when we formalised our organisation, with a Constitution and elected Committee, we have had many interactions with Warwick District Council in our efforts to protect and improve the park.

 

Milestones have included:

• September 2013 -  over 1,500 sign petition to protect park from extensive car and caravan parking 

• March 2017 - Friends of Victoria Park launched as formal not-for-profit community organisation

• April 2018 - online survey co-sponsored with District Council attracts record 1,059 responses 

• End 2018 - Friends play lead role in defeating two planning applications to tarmac parts of the park

• October 2020 - Friends help evaluate contractor bids to design & install new £350k play area

• 2021/2022 - Friends' pressure helps maximise public access during the Commonwealth Games Bowls

• June 2022  - spectacular and hugely popular new play area opened 

• July 2023 - Friends and District Council co-sponsor second online survey to identify park user views on recent developments and future development opportunities

• 2024/25 - Friends conduct History Group Walks around Victoria Park & Environs

• 2025 - to provide safety at night, installation of lighting around the circuit and over the skatepark 

• 2026 - Friends helped press Council to rectify major technical issues and reopen new paddling pool

• After 7 years of campaigning, Friends are have been assured that a Fields-in-Trust Deed of Dedication will be progressed to protect Victoria Park in perpetuity!