Open Newtown, has joined forces with Tir Coed to embark on an exciting project aimed at creating a unique seating area in Dolerw Park.

Focusing on community engagement and inclusivity, the project seeks to design a functional space that caters to the specific needs and desires of the town's residents.

To ensure a comprehensive and diverse perspective, representatives from various community groups were invited to provide feedback and contribute to the project's development. This inclusive approach allowed for a wide range of ideas and preferences to be considered.

The primary objective of the project was to create a versatile space capable of hosting workshops and events. The initial planning process involved a collaborative discussion among organizations representing different groups and interests. Together, they devised a preliminary plan that would serve as the foundation for the project.

During the discussion, participants expressed a preference for an open space on unused land within Dolerw Park. The choice of materials was also deliberated, with earthen berms and wooden benches emerging as popular options. The consensus was to embrace natural, asymmetric shapes to cultivate an inviting and accessible environment that could accommodate both educational activities and children's play.

Considering the open nature of the chosen location, concerns were raised about potential misuse and vandalism. In response, the seating area will be situated in a highly trafficked public space to mitigate such risks. Sturdy materials will be used in the construction process to ensure durability and minimize the likelihood of damage. By involving the community throughout the project, Open Newtown hopes to foster a sense of ownership and pride among residents, further discouraging any acts of misuse.

A vital aspect of the project's ethos is inclusivity. With the seating area set to be constructed by community volunteers, the design has been tailored to accommodate individuals with varying skill levels and abilities. The use of power tools will be avoided, and the size of the earthen berms will be limited to enable everyone to participate in the construction process.

The innovative seating area will cover a portion of the 25 acres of Dolerw Park, providing a tranquil and accessible space for both organized events and individual use. This development is part of Open Newtown's broader vision for the town's green spaces, which aims to create thriving natural environments that can be enjoyed by both residents and visitors.

The construction of the seating area is scheduled to take place on June 22nd and 29th. Participants are required to meet outside Hafan yr Afon, and spaces are limited. To secure a place, individuals are encouraged to book via the following link: eventbrite.co.uk/dolerw-park-seating-area-build-day.

For any further inquiries or information, please reach out to Jerry at [email protected]. The Open Newtown team is eager to answer any questions and provide additional details about this exciting community project.