Phase two of £550,000 Rossmere Park revamp beginning

Work is expected to begin the week of Monday 7th October to the pond and surrounding areas, and will include repairs to surfacing and footpath edging and the installation of non-slip decking and a timber rail to improve access.

Floating islands will be installed to help address nutrient levels within the pond and also act as a refuge for fish. No works will be carried out on the pond island to avoid potential impact on wildlife.

The project was developed by Hartlepool Borough Council following public consultation on its masterplan for the park in 2015, and is being funded by Mondegreen Environmental Body - a regional grant-giving organisation which distributes money from the Landfill Tax to community initiatives. Dawson Landscapes are the main contractor.

People can find out more and view phase two proposals at a drop-in event on Tuesday 1 October from 2pm until 6pm at Rossmere Community Centre, Rossmere Way (between Ardrossan Court and Alford Court). 

Councillor John Tennant, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Neighbourhood Services Committee, said: “These significant park improvements have given the park a new lease of life, and it’s exciting to know we are now entering the final phase of the works.

“As well as enhancing the appearance of the pond and improving the environment for the wildlife in it, we are looking forward to making this area much more accessible for all residents with the installation of the non-slip decking and timber rail, meaning everyone can enjoy the fantastic facilities the park has to offer.

“None of this would have been possible without the funding we have received from Mondegreen Environmental Body, for which we are very grateful.”

Neil Carrigan, Director of Mondegreen EB, said: “Mondegreen is delighted to have been able to support this exciting project, which will greatly enhance the natural environment through improving the water quality of the pond, encouraging new species and giving the park a richer biodiversity.”

Phase one of the works saw the introduction of an on-site car park and covered events space. The toddler play area was also relocated near to the cafe, complete with a range of new equipment, and a separate all-new junior play area was also created. 

People who can’t attend the drop-in event but would like to find out more should contact Project Manager Steven Abbey at the Council on 01429 401990 or email steven.abbey@hartlepool.gov.uk