The councillors for Middleton South approached the group, ‘Friends of Alkrington Woods’ to offer some money to create a version of a play area for children and asked for a proposal. Members of the group were pleasantly surprised by this and the proposal is below. Hoping that this plan for this underutilised great space in ‘nature’ with all its benefits, will come into fruition soon. Well done FOAW and the councillors (fingers crossed).
Riverside Park – Woodland Play and Event Area Proposal
Following consultation with Ward Councillors, the Friends of Alkrington Woods are seeking Township support to enhance community facilities within Riverside Park.
Why Riverside Park?
Established in 1987, it forms the town centre gateway to Alkrington Woods Nature Reserve. Maintained by the Council, the Friends, and the Green Volunteers, the park remains in excellent condition. It is bordered by mature trees, with paths and seating refurbished in 2023.
The park is ideally located:
• Adjacent to the bus station (with public toilets)
• Within five minutes’ walk of public car parks
• Connected by a cycle route and extensive footpath network linking to Alkrington, Higher Blackley, Heaton Park and Rhodes.
The Friends believe that sensitive, sustainable development of the park will have no adverse environmental impact on the nature reserve and will provide valuable physical and mental wellbeing benefits to the community.
1. Woodland Play Area We propose a small, enclosed woodland-style play area for children aged 2–11, similar to the one at Hollingworth Lake.
• Constructed mainly from sustainable timber
• Low-level play features with a soft, safe surface
• Situated near the main entrance path, adjacent to existing benches and a serviced litter bin
2. Event and Picnic Area The site forms a natural arena with shaded areas, making it ideal for community gatherings and picnics. We propose:
• A circle of half-log seating (using locally sourced timber from felled Borough trees where possible)
• A semi-permeable surface to allow year-round, puddle-free use with surrounding planted wildflowers
• Sustainable picnic tables and a small brick-built BBQ area
3. Wildlife Pond and Orchard The existing wildlife pond leaks and remains dry for much of the summer. We propose replacing it with a new, lined pond (estimated cost: under £6,000) to support amphibians, insects, and aquatic plants. In addition, we would like to plant a small orchard of established fruit trees (approximate value £2,000). The Friends and Green Volunteers would assist with planting and establishment.
Summary These modest improvements would enhance Riverside Park’s value as a community and nature based recreation space, strengthening its role as a welcoming gateway to Alkrington Woods.
