More improvements at Ely Country Park

Ely’s award winning Country Park is now easier to access thanks to a new gateway which has been installed.

The Springhead Lane entrance now has a new gate design and the loose stones along the path have been swept helping to make the surface much sturdier underfoot.

This work has created improved access for wheelchair users and pushchairs following consultation with local access groups and users of the Park.

The next improvement work will include the creation of a resting point at the ramp coming off Springhead Lane and the Council will also be assessing the success of the summer toilet trial which comes to an end this week.

The toilets, which consisted of three portable units (male, female and baby changing/disabled), were be cleaned and stocked daily by an external cleaning company and were open between 8am and 6pm.

Councillor Richard Hobbs, Chairman of the Commercial Services Committee, said: “The Country Park really does go from strength to strength as it becomes a venue for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy nature. A lot of hard work went into clearing the gateway at the Springhead Lane entrance and I’d like to thank those people who went beyond the call of duty to improve the area’s accessibility.

“As we enter the autumn, we are also coming to the end of the toilet trial in the park. We have had great feedback from visitors to the site so we are now looking at what we can do for next year. Rest assured, we know how much people have come to value and love the Country Park so we will continue to improve it so everyone can continue to enjoy it for generations to come.”

This trial formed part of the Ely Country Park Improvement Plan 2015-17 which was developed following user feedback and Council obligations. The improvement plan will also focus on assessing seating provision.

Ely Country Parks is an open space which has a number of features including children’s play area, sculptured walking routes and spectacular views of Ely Cathedral. There are also wildflower areas, riverside meadows and old gravel working pits.