A NEW PAVILION for one of Worcester’s most acclaimed parks is set to take shape when work begins in the new year.
The replacement Sons of Rest pavilion in Gheluvelt Park will, for the first time, provide a snack kiosk and toilet next to the Splashpad – one of Worcester’s most popular summertime destinations for children and families.
Building work begins on January 2 with the start of the demolition of the existing pavilion. Construction of the replacement building will start in the same week.
Coun Alan Feeney, vice chair of Worcester City Council’s Environment Committee, said: “The Splashpad is loved by families across the city and beyond, but plenty of people have told us that it would be even better if you could buy food and drink nearby and use a toilet.
“I’m delighted to say the new Sons of Rest pavilion will give people exactly what they‘ve been hoping for, and make a visit to the Splashpad in the warm summer months even more fun.”
Gheluvelt has been awarded a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence, in recognition of the consistently high marks visitors give it on the popular website. In 2015 it was placed in the top three best parks in the country in the national Fields in Trust awards.
The new pavilion is set to open in June. It will include a kiosk for the selling of take-away hot food, snacks and drinks; a multi-use community room with an adjoining kitchen and toilet with baby-changing facilities; plus five individual unisex toilets, including a disabled one with more baby-changing facilities.
While the demolition and building work takes place the adjoining park entrance from Lavender Road will be closed, and the site will be fenced off for the safety of the public.
The project is being managed on the City Council’s behalf by Place Partnership Ltd, who have appointed contractor Abbey and Lyndon to carry out the work.
Local residents will be kept informed of the project by city council chiefs who will aim to tackle any issues which occur.
Normal working hours on the site will be 8am-5pm from Monday to Friday, although there may be occasional working on Saturdays.
