Park Team Secures £300,000 for New Community Hub

The volunteers and staff of the charity operating Park View 4 U have expressed considerable satisfaction after successfully raising £300,000 for the construction of a new community center. Annually, more than 20,000 individuals utilized the eco-pod at Park View 4 U in Lytham for educational sessions, wellbeing activities, and as a gathering point for community groups. However, the wooden structure suffered irreparable damage from water ingress, rendering it structurally unsafe. Park ranger Julie Norman described the park, situated on the Fylde Coast, as “the heart of the community.” She stated that local residents established it 21 years ago, and it was initially “just a boggy, wet field.” Ms. Norman added, “We have fundraised over the years for the things the community asked for.” Available amenities include a toddler area, a sand play area, a skate park, a BMX track, a kitchen garden, and a cafe, in addition to the pod. Ms. Norman explained, “Unfortunately the way the pod was designed meant water was seeping in through the roof without us knowing over an eight-year period so the whole wooden structure has rotted away to the point it became structurally unsafe.” The facility has been out of commission since 2023, with the charity dedicating the past 18 months to fundraising efforts. Construction has now commenced on the new center, facilitated by contributions from Lytham School Foundation, Fylde Council, and BAE Systems. The forthcoming center will feature a multi-purpose community space, equipped with solar panels, underfloor heating, a large projector screen, a kitchen, and toilets. The reopening of the hub is projected for the spring. For further engagement, individuals can listen to BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can also be submitted via email to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk and through Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.