Our 'Winter/Spring' 2015 Newsletter
Sydney Gardens is the only remaining Georgian Pleasure Park in the country. The Friends of Sydney Gardens (FoSG) feel strongly that this special place should be protected and conserved to ensure the park can be enjoyed by young and old for many years to come.
FoSG are an enthusiastic group who wish to encourage everyone, with an interest in Sydney Gardens, to become a member. The FoSG newsletter will keep you informed of what is happening to your park. A website has been developed and will be regularly up dated http://www.friendsofsydneygardens.org.
If you would like to become a member of FoSG or have any suggestions on improving or maintaining your park, please contact the FoSG secretary Lizzie, email: info@friendsofsydneygardens.org.
FoSG are an enthusiastic group who wish to encourage everyone, with an interest in Sydney Gardens, to become a member. The FoSG newsletter will keep you informed of what is happening to your park. A website has been developed and will be regularly up dated http://www.friendsofsydneygardens.org.
If you would like to become a member of FoSG or have any suggestions on improving or maintaining your park, please contact the FoSG secretary Lizzie, email: info@friendsofsydneygardens.org.
HLF Bid Update
The Heritage Lottery Bid (HLB) applied for by BANES to fund the reunification of the grounds of the Holburne Museum and Sydney Gardens, plus the refurbishment of both, was initially made in February 2013. The reason given for withdrawal was the need to continue discussions on the impact of the proposed bid on the community and the community involvement in governance and management of the gardens. BANES is proposing a Governing board, with community involvement, to progress a way forward. FoSG will be represented on the Governing board alongside other resident associations. The first meeting in the form of a ‘Steering committee work shop’ is due to take place at the end of Jan 2015. .
The Heritage Lottery Bid (HLB) applied for by BANES to fund the reunification of the grounds of the Holburne Museum and Sydney Gardens, plus the refurbishment of both, was initially made in February 2013. The reason given for withdrawal was the need to continue discussions on the impact of the proposed bid on the community and the community involvement in governance and management of the gardens. BANES is proposing a Governing board, with community involvement, to progress a way forward. FoSG will be represented on the Governing board alongside other resident associations. The first meeting in the form of a ‘Steering committee work shop’ is due to take place at the end of Jan 2015. .
FoSG 1st Birthday
FoSG 1st Birthday Celebration was a great success. All members were invited along with the committee, prospective members and guests. A raffle was held which included prizes donated by, Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel, Green Park Brasserie, Grasse, Lifestlye Pharmacy, John Moore Sports, Eric Snooks Toys, San Francisco Fudge Factory, Sassi Dog Bandanas and the Guildhall Pet shop. The event was an excellent opportunity for everyone to discuss their views and the way forward for what they would like to see happening in Sydney Gardens. Sydney Gardens Toilets
‘Healthmatic’ have been contracted by BANES to maintain and refurbish toilets within BANES. ‘Healthmatic’ applied for buildings application to convert the toilets in Sydney Gardens from the present 8 toilets to 1 toilet and an office. Due to many objections the application was withdrawn. A second application was made for 2 unisex toilets 1 of which would be for disabled and contain nappy changing facilities, this application was accepted. The work has now been completed and a 20p charge is required for use. If there is a problem with the toilets please call the number displayed on the door. |
Network Rail
The work required for the electrification of the Great Western Line through Sydney Gardens is due to run from April to October 2015. The plan is to lower the rail lines, in the gardens, by 200-400cm to give clearance for the cables under the various bridges. The plans also include the creation of a Ha-Ha alongside the track which will lower the foot path and consequently raise the height of the balustrade, required for health and safety. The result will give an open view of the rail line and allow the removal of temporary fencing. Monthly meetings in the Guildhall give up to date information - go to: http://www.networkrail.co.uk/great-western-route-modernisation/banes/ |
Sink Hole
This appeared in Sydney gardens during the summer and after a period of time was filled in by BANES. In a previous year a sink hole in the same area of the gardens was also filled in. The cause for the appearance for the sink hole was given as heavy rain. Volunteers Required
FoSG wish to establish a base of volunteers to help with small tasks in the garden e.g. picking up litter and garden maintenance. If you feel you could give time to support your gardens please contact info@friendsofsydneygardens.org |
Litter Collection
Litter collection in Sydney Gardens is carried out Monday to Friday only and FoSG decide it would benefit the gardens and its users if litter was also collected on the weekends. Therefore a rota of volunteers has been set up and running since July 2014 to collect litter every Saturday and Sunday. The parks department have provided high visibility jackets, litter pickers, gloves and refuse bags. If you would like to volunteer to keep your park free of litter please contact: info@friendsofsydneygardens.org 
Waitrose Community Matters
FoSG was accepted by Waitrose as a local issue for collection during December. A total of £206.00 was raised which will be presented to FoSG in due course. Thank you to all who supported us and thank you also to Waitrose for making the monthly donations to local causes. |
Useful Info
If you wish to report a problem in Sydney Gardens, you can speak to the gardener who is available Monday to Friday. Otherwise call:
Council Connect:
01225 394041.
After-hours and weekends:
01225 477477
If you wish to report a problem in Sydney Gardens, you can speak to the gardener who is available Monday to Friday. Otherwise call:
Council Connect:
01225 394041.
After-hours and weekends:
01225 477477