“Thanks to funding from the Hinkley Point C (HPC) Community Fund, managed by Somerset Community Foundation, Bridgwater Town Council is inviting tenders for the redevelopment of Mansfield Park.
Led by Bridgwater Town Council, the project aims to transform the existing park into a vibrant space for families and young people.
The redevelopment will include high-quality play and sports equipment, the installation of a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), and improved football facilities.
Recognising the importance of this initiative, the Hamp Community Association (HCA) has also pledged funding towards the installation of the MUGA and new play equipment.
Cllr Leigh Redman, Hamp Ward Councillor and Secretary of Hamp Community Association, said: “The approval of this grant application reflects the hard work of many dedicated individuals. As a local resident and secretary of Hamp Community Association, I am thrilled about this project. Mansfield Park has been underused for years, especially after the changing rooms were condemned, limiting its potential.
“This project will give young people the opportunity to enjoy the park once again. I hope we can get plans in place and see the space being used to its full potential soon.”
Amelia Thompson, Senior Programmes Manager at Somerset Community Foundation, said: “The redevelopment of Mansfield Park is a brilliant way for the funding to support the Hamp community, especially children and young people. The funding plays a part in the wider work going on in Hamp and we’re hopeful it becomes a vital piece of the social infrastructure of Hamp for years to come.”
Sam Smith, Founder & Secretary of Rhode Lane Wanderers, a junior football team from the Hamp Estate, said, “This is truly a momentous occasion for the Hamp estate. Mansfield Park has been home to adults and children’s sports for decades, with multiple generations of families using it to its full potential. This announcement means we get to put that back into motion once again, with health, wellbeing and community at the forefront of the project.”