“Concerts (not pop), using the bandstand” General comments:
“Theatrical productions” “No commercial developments in the park”
“Bands playing pop concerts” “Keep green spaces”
“School performances” “No noise! Please do not remove natural turf and replace with plastic” “Keep fit events” “How about a bowling green” “Nature walks” “No floodlights” “Treasure hunts for kids” “More dog mess bins” “Sports other than football” “Where are the green issues?” “Music and theatre, sports, youth events” “Management and leadership of the park is key, “All that’s noted above” needs vision and creativity”
Any concerns? “Create many activities for the young people of the area. Get them engaged!” “No” Location based comments: “No, but clear up after event” Lower Morden Lane end: “Frequency board for “Increased traffic, encourage green modes of mobile flying area” transport, please also recycle waste created” “No” Registry office: “Formal gardens with walk through the house” “Move tennis parking from main park to other less used field?” Bandstand and Morden Park area (middle): “Make more use of the bandstand (less bureaucratic)” “Not if properly organised and have proper closure times that are adhered to”
“If they are too big the grass gets ruined. Also need to be policed so that cars don’t race around and bbqs don’t burn the grass and cooking oil dumped on grass”
“Noise late at night”
“No, but tidy up afterwards”
Alternative Activities
4. This task was aimed at finding out what alternative activities people would like to see in the park and where. Using visual prompts, attendees’ were asked to suggest alternative activities and where they might go.
51
Field B: “Tea Room – all the other popular parks attract users because they have tea rooms (Richmond, “Archery, volleyball, badminton, softball” Oaks Park, Windmill Wimbledon Common, Bushy, Nonsuch etc)” “This implies buildings!!! (on comment above)” “Adventure playground, using wood as in the “Designated BBQ area / picnic area, as in New Forest. They are in the shape of giant Australia” animals. Kids love it.”
“Please see the location for changing rooms and “Tea rooms / Café” indoor training facility for outdoor sport on the Association AGM notice. This was chosen after “GO FOR IT! Provide many varied activities, the years of consultation, meetings etc. We need one more the merrier” building to serve all the playing fields” “This beautiful park belongs to the wildlife who Field A: live there. Whatever we do, we must not encroach on their special place.” “More dog poo bins” “Any sport not requiring destroying the grass “Why don’t they bring back the tennis courts areas, except for high/long jump etc, or the here? I do see people using the old courts but if addition of floodlighting” these were up-graded and maintained a lot more people would use them” “Cricket practice is the most popular use at the moment. Practice nets / areas that are vandal “And cricket nets” proof”
Ideas for alternative activities: “No more football pitches!”
“Athletics and archery (all used to be in the “Toilet facilities for sports” playing fields)” “Outdoor swimming pool” “Toilet facilities for park users” “Roller skating rink” “Ensure the area is available for a multitude of activities / pursuits and not dedicated to a few” “Ice skating rink”
“Tea Room / Café and toilet” “No floodlights”
“I would like to see the green, open spaces preserved as much as possible therefore it would be great to have a wildlife area and this could be used for schools and the public”
“Kite flying”
“Natural play areas for little children and one for older children”
“Jogging over the park and middle field”
“Natural play areas”
52 “Model aeroplane rallies” That’s a great activity – getting out (for some)”
“Kite buggying” “No floodlighting! No floodlighting!”
“Outdoor chess tournaments” “No GOALS, no floodlighting”
“Country show” “No to building, they will destroy the park as they did with Sutton Arena” “Local farm show / sale” “Football, netball, tennis, rugby – needs to be “Re-site pool, have water slide sometimes” marked out to get lots of people using the park. People will feel safer if more people are around” “Fitness trails! Expand!” “Encourage young and old (and middle)” “Encourage all people young and old with activities” “Morden Park is a finite resource that needs to be used / managed responsibly for residents nearby” “For disabled people allow access by extending compacted gravel path around whole of park!
4.6 WORKSHOP 4 elements that might make up their perfect park. These included: a leisure centre, football pitches, The format of the 4th workshop differed from the tennis courts, the bandstand, trees, ponds, car previous 3, providing a more structured framework parks, cricket pitch, and cricket nets. for discussion. Attendees were asked to take a Attendees were asked to stick the various items on seat in groups of six after signing in. 51 people to the map in the most appropriate location. Each signed in to the workshop, with only 1 or 2 group’s map was displayed at the back of (young children) who attended but chose not to the room for the rest of the session to allow sign in. everyone attending to view the work of all those taking part. Planning for real – build your own perfect park Attendees were asked to work in their groups to 1. After attendees had split into to groups of 5-6 ‘build their perfect park’, through discussion and people, they were provided with a large map of debate, with the aim at arriving at a consensus of the park and various representations of different any competing views from fellow group members.
53 Leisure centre (blue dots) and sports facilities (yellow dots) The map shows that the majority of residents would like to see the leisure centre remain where it is currently located, and have the sports facilities situated on the playing fields.
Parking (red dots) and access (orange dots) The map demonstrates that residents would like to see access at certain points along the park boundary; in the north east corner, adjacent to Morden South Rail and at the Lower Morden Lane/ Epson Road corner. The majority of residents would like to see parking at the college site and along Lower Morden Lane.
Nature Improvements (purple dots) Nature Improvements such as a hay meadow, pond, nature play facilities and new trees would be welcomed across the whole park, especially in the southern parts.
54 Car park (orange dots) and leisure centre (red dots) Broadly speaking, residents would like the leisure centre and car park to remain where they are, with additional car parking at Lower Morden Lane.
Sports Facilities (Tennis Courts: black dots, Football Pitches: dark blue dots, Cricket Nets: burgundy dots, Cricket Pitches green dots) The consensus is for improved sports facilities to be placed where the existing ones are on the playing fields and at the Lower Morden Lane/Epsom Road corner.
Play Facilities (yellow dots) and Bandstand (purple dots) Residents would like to see playing facilities in a variety of locations: on the South West fields, near the existing leisure centre and on the playing fields. As for the bandstand, its current location is well-loved by residents.
55 “Lack of respect for saving and nurturing our green spaces”
“The challenge of maintaining to a high standard the upkeep on non-commercial sports facilities” • The Community Trust has ideas for meeting part of this challenge • Another way is to charge fees on a not- for- profit basis (i.e. to lower costs only).
“Tackling / avoiding vandalism and litter in the park”
“It is important to take into account the larger communities views. However the impact of decisions falls on those who live nearby. These Constraints – how do we deliver the vision? people’s views need to have higher weighting.”
2.a For the second part of the workshop, “The Council!” attendees were asked to discuss and record the constraints to achieving the vision for Morden “No extreme environmental changes” Park. Attendees were also asked to then consider how the constraints might be overcome and how “Tennis courts: not too many, because of noise the vision could be delivered. The constraints (minority view), maintenance needed” identified by attendees are outlined below: “Pond dangerous for children – would “Geography – flooding / marshy land in place” need enclosure” “Any new building should not be built over Stone Street” “Football pitches - changing facilities needed, maintenance” “Some form of park ranger to make sure that any new buildings do not get damaged by youths – “Putting green – maintenance needed, kiosk to be which will happen!!! And generally to keep the staffed regularly” park clean” “Leisure centre – rebuild where at present? “Lack of manpower e.g. to have and empty more (include swimming pool), staffing levels” bins, clean up litter, police for litter etc.” “All proposals involve cost – initial and/or ongoing (for maintenance and staffing)” “Politics of the Council and politics between the various political parties” “Finance – payments for sports facilities”
“Lack of empathy for needs of young people and 2.b Some of the ideas for helping to achieve the children and the disabled” vision are outlined below:
“Priority in these economic times?” “Grants from sports bodies”
“Safety issues” “Community Trust to leverage in grant funding”
“Lack of coordination, cooperation, and “Additional parking on grasscrete for events communication between departments and lack of such as Wimbledon, concerts – infrequent but clear vision and leadership in the Council” heavy demand”
56 “Information boards in the park should “Not-for-profit fees for use of sporting facilities include maps – no information from (i.e. cover costs of maintenance, as you have with London Road entrance.” pitch and putt)”
“Information centre to sell leaflets etc. See “Encouraging occasional commercial events and National Trust shop in Morden Hall Park.” using the profits to fund the park.”
“Charge for concerts in bandstand and could be “Use the profits from the car park near the used by schools, churches, choirs. Modest charge college/pool to fund the park.” for nature walks led by volunteers.” “Community management committee to supervise “Working strongly with the Community Trust” events/activities to be in keeping with the park/sporting environment.” “Keep all of the land in public hands, no commercial involvement, this exercise should not “As with Wimbledon Common, place levy on local serve as a justification for PFI or similar.” council tax rate payers, say up to ? mile from the park and give money to a community trust to “Make use of local, willing volunteers to keep park manage park and playing fields.” in shape.” “All revenues from the park for the park and not “Involve schools, sports / community work – for general coffers.” youths from college being able to help / have input into the park. Scouts??” “Leave the park and playing fields alone! Why should the council make money out of land? It “Work with Sport England to secure capital and was donated for community use not for profit.” liaise with sporting organisations to encourage use of facilities e.g. archery” “Go with the Morden Park and Playing Fields Community Trust. It is made up of community “Develop a café that will generate revenue as well organisations.” as providing a nice place to have a cup of tea, meet friends etc.” “One paid person to be responsible for organising volunteers for running many/most activities.” “Continue Park and Ride but ask LTA to pay more.” “Run events to raise money. The events should “Use Bandstand for more performances and involve the residents and local groups.” cultural events – build an arena and change people, evening concerts etc.” “More sporting and youth events.”
“A promotional event to encourage interest and support for the park.”
“Encourage the use of volunteers, a new effective voluntary body as ‘Friends of Morden Park’”
“Park and Ride scheme for Wimbledon, as already run.”
“Creating a catering facility, franchising it out, and using the profit to fund the park.”
57 1. We think the most appropriate mix of sports and recreation... 2. We think that facilities for young people... 3. We think any new leisure centre... 4. To support any new facilities, car parking should... 5. We think access... 6. We think safety and security... 7. We want the park to look like... 8. Wildlife in the park should... 9. Events in the park... 10.To make the most of the varied history and heritage...
Each area of the manifesto was complemented by a series of feedback comments taken from the consultation so far, in order to provide attendees with an insight into the differing views coming out of the consultation. Eight vision manifestos were returned, and the results are as follows:
Group 1:
1. We think the most appropriate mix of sports and recreation should be not all things to all people. Some activities / leisure pursuits to be catered for in other locations within the Borough. Some activities for all people. “Pedestrian bridge from Morden South rail station into Playing Field A.” 2. We think that facilities for young people should be better managed and equipped. Duty of care “Commercial organisation to run a is parents’ or “in loco parentis” responsibility. café/restaurant.” Should not include “GOALS” or other commerce.
“Involve students in Merton College and Merton 3. We think any new leisure centre should be Adult Education doing relevant courses/training located on other sites (develop brown field e.g. sports, horticulture.” sites) wherever possible.
“Encourage schools to use the playing fields, park. 4. To support any new facilities, car parking should Use area for learning about wildlife, nature, etc.” be free. New facilities are not to become over demanding on resources. “Use the community as volunteers. (Compare use of volunteers in Morden Hall Park – National 5. We think access could be improved by Trust.)” removing most internal fences, but add fencing between bandstand and Park House (under Vision Manifesto tree) to keep clean for children.
For the third and final part of the workshop, 6. We think safety and security requires attendees were asked in their groups to complete active supervision. a vision manifesto. 10 key areas were covered, with groups asked to work together to complete 7. We want the park to look like a wildlife reserve, the following sentences: natural, open amenity, restrained use of hard features, fences, signs etc.
58 8. Wildlife in the park should be protected, 10. To make the most of the varied history and more diverse, increased. heritage there should be an increase in the number of notice boards, with changing 9. Events in the park should be kept to a information to make it more interesting. minimum. Don’t expect a commercial return on green open space. Any revenue Group 3: should be used for the park. 1. We think the most appropriate mix of sports 10. To make the most of the varied history and recreation should be reinstated e.g. the and heritage there should be football pitches, tennis courts, cricket nets, signs/notice boards at entrances, not in athletics etc. the middle of the park. 2. We think that facilities for young people should be appropriate and Group 2: maintained, with a designated cycle track and improved children’s play area, more “shelters” 1. We think the most appropriate mix of (but not red and blue!) sports and recreation would be to re-instate sports facilities, with no floodlit facilities. Move 3. We think any new leisure centre should retain the paddling pool to a sunny spot and fill it the 33m pool, diving facility, baby and teaching more often. pool and include a sports hall.
2. We think that facilities for young people 4. To support any new facilities, car parking should should be play and fitness equipment. be free – but can charge for special events – and actually used for visitors to the park. 3. We think any new leisure centre would be very nice but who pays for it? 5. We think access should be available to all with improved all year access for the disabled and 4. To support any new facilities, car those with prams and buggies. parking should be free for short stay to visit 6. We think safety and security is fairly good but park – dog walkers, families with children, could be improved by better policing. charge for longer stay, i.e. college parking Reintroduction of park keepers (uniformed). 7. We want the park to look like it does now 5. We think access could be improved with an all but with improvements especially to the weather path all around the park for all to designated sports areas. Provide litter bins enjoy, including disabled, to link all entrances / and improved seating. exits and remove internal fences. 8. Wildlife in the park should be encouraged. 6. We think safety and security requires a park Provide varied habitats, bird and bat boxes. keeper to help everyone feel safe, night light at Provide information and nature walks. each exit / entrance point to park for guidance at night. 9. Events in the park are welcome. More use should be made of the bandstand. 7. We want the park to look like more meadows, wild flowers to relax in and less cut grass areas 10. To make the most of the varied history and (why are old playing fields still mown). heritage more information and education is required – leaflets, booklets and signag 8. Wildlife in the park should be encouraged and protected. Don’t overdevelop the park.
9. Events in the park should make more use of the bandstand, with more local events and no park and ride.
59 Group 5:
1. We think the most appropriate mix of sports and recreation would be free or very low cost, suitable for people of every age, areas for different sports, involving outside sporting bodies (i.e. community sports clubs), and a café meeting space for friends and family.
2. We think that facilities for young people should be fully equipped and maintained sports areas, children’s playground to be extended, and paddling pool to be cleaned and filled more often.
3. We think any new leisure centre should be Group 4: accessible to all for the community, not members only, and include an education centre 1. We think the most appropriate mix of sports with green energy/archaeological society and recreation is non profit making – low-key information, and a café or restaurant. cricket, tennis, putting, natural play for children. 4. To support any new facilities, car parking should 2. We think that facilities for young people not be expanded – it will be abused by those should be as above (in the quotes). using public transport, and be free.
3. We think any new leisure centre is not 5. We think access should be maintained and kept necessary. Maintain the existing facilities clean and tidy; pedestrian access needs to be properly. New refreshment facility with improved i.e. for pushchairs and wheelchairs – decent toilets. not bark chip pathways.
4. To support any new facilities, car parking should 6. We think safety and security requires the be reasonably priced and the money raised maintenance of strong fences, so dogs and should go to the park. children do not run out of the holes in the fence, with some sort of warden, some one to 5. We think access should include better paths for turn to about care of the park. buggies and wheelchairs. 7. We want the park to look like it is natural 6. We think safety and security but cared for, inviting but safe and with wild flower meadows. 7. We want the park to look like a place for relaxation and peace – cleaner, greener. 8. Wildlife in the park should be encouraged in all areas where it can be appreciated, signs with 8. Wildlife in the park should be a priority, information / educational interest, squirrel with habitats cared for. Green spaces are and bird boxes.. very precious. 9. Events in the park should involve the scouts i.e. 9. Events in the park should be low key, profits of jamboree, have exhibitions / competitions in the which should go the park and not too noisy. park and leisure centre, encourage cultural events at the bandstand i.e. mini music / arts 10. To make the most of the varied history and festivals like at Cannizaro / proms in the park. heritage we agree with quotes provided and needs better publicity.
60 10. To make the most of the varied history and Group 7: heritage the Roman Road / Mound to be investigated, have education centre in the 1. We think the most appropriate mix of sports leisure centre, use and information of the and recreation is to channel their energy with Registry Office Building. all forms of ball games, cycling, skateboarding, swimming, athletics, space, freedom and a Group 6: variety of play areas.
1. We think the most appropriate mix of sports 2. We think that facilities for young people should and recreation is a mixture for all the encourage play, imagination, teamwork, community to enjoy at reasonable, low or no education, an appreciation of the environment, cost. Add running track, cycle path, dog- teaching values of space and freedom. walking path round the perimeter. 3. We think any new leisure centre should be 2. We think that facilities for young people are non-commercial and in harmony with the park, inadequate and should be improved to be excellent swimming and diving facilities, comprehensive – young children through gymnastics, refreshments, sports’ hall. to teenagers. 4. To support any new facilities, car parking should 3. We think any new leisure centre could include be well managed, cost effective, adequate and activities outside (e.g. bowling green) as well as in balance with the needs of the park. inside (e.g. pool and gym). If requiring membership could be self supporting. 5. We think access should be more attractive, welcoming and appropriate for all abilities. 4. To support any new facilities, car parking should be appropriate – nominal fee to generate some 6. We think safety and security are paramount. income but not so much as to discourage people from coming. 7. We want the park to look like it’s cared for and an asset to the borough. 5. We think access should be increased at some points, with disabled people and buggies in 8. Wildlife in the park should be encouraged, mind and signs saying that this is Morden Park managed and nurtured. and Playing Fields.. 9. Events in the park should be cultural, musical, 6. We think safety and security needs more park sporting (athletics) of a high standard, family staff and more frequent police control. entertainment.
7. We want the park to look like a well- maintained park! Can we have some more benches? The playing fields need rubbish bins.
8. Wildlife in the park should be encouraged and protected – except for the rats!
9. Events in the park are welcome but should be well planned and managed; and end by 10pm.
10. To make the most of the varied history and heritage have notice boards at relevant points, saying what the history is and have “history” walks.
61 10. To make the most of the varied history and with disabled access and taken down internal heritage local schools should study it. fences. Have ‘Son et Lumiere’ performances and use the house as a period backdrop with 6. We think safety and security should include period costumes. solar powered down lighting on tarmac pathways, not on grass or under trees. Group 8: 7. We want the park to look like; consolidate 1. We think the most appropriate mix of sports tennis courts, cricket nets in the areas between and recreation is to rebuild the sports complex Hillcross Avenue and London Road alongside ` with pool, gym, restaurant etc. on site of old railway line, rebuild changing rooms there with pool and sports facilities for everyone at small car park for access by coaches etc. Keep reasonable cost, tennis courts, football pitches, wildflower meadows, wild areas, nature area cricket nets, basketball in field on London Road. and marshes, with access for residents – timber walkways or viewing areas. 2. We think that facilities for young people, if completed, need encouragement for young 8. Wildlife in the park should continue to be people to use them, always maintain them and encouraged with bat boxes, give access to employ supervisor, encourage clubs and schools marshes and stream, encourage schools to go to use them. for nature sessions.
3. We think any new leisure centre should be an 9. Events in the park to be encouraged if they are improvement of existing facilities with the well managed and a high percentage of community indoor space on site with café with takings/earnings going directly back to the park. views down into park, sited where existing pool is now. 10. To make the most of the varied history and heritage there should be an unstaffed 4. To support any new facilities, car parking should Information Centre sites in sports complex for remain the same but possible additional secure schools with maps, historical panels detailing spaces for bikes. history, access to registry office buildings when booked for tour, brown signposts advertising 5. We think access; improve existing pathways and facilities and advertise Morden Park – where possible set aside some parking for encourage visitors. disabled. Provide toilets
62 4.7 EVERYTHING AND ANYTHING
At all the workshops, attendees were given the opportunity to comment on a series of statements on all aspects of park life. This was offered as a means of feedback for those residents who could only make one workshop.
The full record of comments left next to each statement are outlined below:
SPORT, RECREATION AND PLAY
Statement: There is not enough opportunity for people to play sport in the park • Agree • In so far as they can be accommodated in the Comment: defined area • Agree • No, people can mark out areas themselves • Yes • Yes, but no floodlit golf range please • Agree • Yes, the park is used by Asian teenagers • Agree practising cricket – there are no facilities to • There’s no limit if people organise it themselves practice in Merton for this age group • Depends on what sport. Space enough to • Yes organise a football game • Yes • How about a new putting green or crazy golf • Agree • Yes, vandal proof tennis courts, cricket nets, • Yes basketball court needed • Yes • Yes • Better facilities and too many • Agree • Yes • More sports pitches with changing facilities • Yes, but they need to be managed to prevent required to maximise use of the park damage and keep them looking good to • Agree encourage use • Yes • There are no pitches marked out permanently • Council to use fund from park events for young people to play informal matches. (Wimbledon L.T.A, fireworks etc) to demolish These could be marked out in Fields A and B existing changing facilities • New facilities to have an environmentally low Statement: impact Any new sports facilities must be free to use by • Stop park and ride, the air gets polluted, the the local community soil eroded, no grass. Cars are not a sport, unless machine racing Comment: • Agree • Yes • reasonable cost Statement: • Reasonable cost We need more sports facilities in Morden Park • They don’t to be free and not for profit • Agree Comment: • Agree with above – no large profit involved • Yes • Yes, not for profit, teenagers use the park for • Yes sport, they cannot afford £8 a game • Agree • Reasonable cost • Agree • They don’t need to be free
63 Comment: • Yes • Yes • Agree • Agree • Agree • Agree • The areas are already there, they need to be better equipped and managed • Agree with the above. Children’s play facilities need to be maintained properly • Yes • Yes • Agree • Yes • Yes • Yes • Yes, not for profit • Yes • Yes • Yes, where adult facilities (pool, college etc) are • Reasonable cost nearby e.g. between the bandstand and pool • Yes • Yes • Not for commercially run organisations • Yes. They need to be accessible i.e at the top • Reasonable costs okay – “accessible free” not of the park, and they need to be maintained so “price free” that they are a good experience. Please fill the • Reasonable cost paddling pool more often • They don’t need to be free to all, but could be free to youth and rented out to leagues Statement: Areas should be clearly demarcated for sports use Statement: The park should be free from all sports and ball Comment: games • Yes • Should be available to the public except dogs Comment: • Only in the defined sports area • Disagree • Agree with the above • No • Yes • Totally disagree • Yes • No totally disagree • Yes • Disagree • Yes • Disagree • Yes • No, it must be open to all dog walkers and • Many spaces do not require demarcation families, youth playing sport • Archery should be demarcated (if this is • No included) • No • Cricket nets, tennis courts should be maintained • No well • No • Yes • Don’t agree • Some sports, yes, but not all • No Statement: Statement: Morden Park Pools is a vital community resource We need more play facilities for children
64 Comment: • More trees • Yes • More trees and plant okay • Yes • Yes • Yes • Yes • Agree • Yes • Agree • Yes • Yes • Yes • Agree • Yes • Yes • The park provides a place for relaxation and • Yes peace. The first priority for all residents is a • Yes cleaner, greener environment • Yes, if improved • Strongly agree (related to comment above) • Yes • Yes, and that is why people visit, just to enjoy a • Yes quiet space • Yes • Yes, but needs updating Statement: • Yes, but needs updating and on the same site There should be an orchard or allotments in and same footprint Morden Park • Agreed, but it needs updating. We may even need a brand new leisure facility Comment: • Yes and therefore needs to be looked after and • Allotments – YES!!! I live opposite the park have money spent on it so more people can and I would love a local allotment. I have some enjoy it mobility problems so cannot go far from home • Allotments in field A would be great! Orchard LANDSCAPING, NATURE, HERITAGE AND OPEN would be nice too SPACE • NO • No, because this would make these areas Statement: exclusive to the allotment holders. There are Morden Park has a good variety of trees and also underused allotments in Merton already plants • I think that there are plenty of disused allotments nearby. I do not support the idea of Comment: allotments here. It would be not in keeping • Good variety of trees, yes. But not of plants. with the overall landscape character Could do with meadow and wild flowers • Great care would be needed in choosing the • Good variety of trees but so much of plants right place for an orchard • Good variety of trees but not of plants, • Don’t mind orchard, but not allotments meadow and wild flowers • Yes • Yes, but would it be possible to have a pond or nature reserve with some public access • Could be improved • Yes – I agree – the landscape reflects the history of the park as an 18th Century parkland landscape associated with Morden Park House. The recent addition of managed wildflower meadows is welcomed. These assets should not be harmed by any future changes • Yes, but could be better • Agree • Yes, but could be better • Start adding more meadow flowers like poppys etc
65 • Not allotments • No, do not carve up the park (“budgetary and • Great short-term conditions”) • No allotments at all – would an orchard work? • Would make it too contrived / artificial • No allotments, they are scruffy and only open • Some areas yes, but carving it up would be a to the allotment holder not everyone. shame • No • No allotment, orchard okay Statement: • No allotments Morden Park has good mix of wildlife • Orchards should be a natural space • Definitely no allotments. Flower gardens would Comment: enhance its features • Too many rats because of too much LITTER! • No. It’s a park, not a farm • Too many rats encouraged by litter • Yes Statement: • Yes, if you stop to look We should clearly mark out different areas within • Yes, could be improved? the park for different activities • Yes it does – it needs to be managed in such a way as to increase biodiversity. The introduction Comment: of wildflower meadows could be further extended • No – don’t agree • Yes • I don’t think that it is necessary, though an • Yes enclosed area for families / children safe from • No idea other activities • Let’s conserve what’s there • No, the beauty of the park is that is isn’t • We should be conserving any wildlife that is left obviously organised • More bird boxes and wildlife habitat • Not necessary • Yes • Only if this can be done in a way which • Yes respects the overall 18th Century parkland • Yes landscape character • Yes • Disagree, it should be obvious • Yes, but could do better • I suppose it’s necessary but is it enforceable • Yes • No- not necessary • Needs improving and looking after • Dog walkers are the main users but fence off • Okay, but not enough area in the middle for families • Yes • No • Yes • No • No Statement: • Yes Morden Park should stay exactly as it is
Comment: • Not really practical. It needs to be properly maintained and meet the need of the local community • Would be happy with this but should be maintained properly • Yes • No, it needs to be cared for and managed • Improved open space • Not entirely – there are ways it could be improved. Any changes should seek to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the Conservation area
66 • The sections of chain link fencing and the associated concrete posts should be removed • The derelict pavilion buildings, building footprints, cricket nets, and tennis courts should be removed and the land restored • No • It’s a living thing – it cannot stay the same • I do have sympathy with this view • I would have no problem with the park staying as it but do we have a choice • Playing fields were given for children’s sport. NO to commercial development • No, repair sports practice areas, Repair fences. No building or buildings. • No • No, they fulfil different needs. • No Older children and young people would • No appreciate some challenging play equipment. • Yes Perhaps it would then give them something • The Council’s statement “the status quo is not positive to do an option” is not a fair statement. The values • Yes behind the endowment of the park to the • Need a lot more benches, bins (being emptied people should be at the centre of any changes regularly), toilets to enable people to stay in the to the space. The entire space should not be park for long time carved up! • Some features need improving and should be Statement: play areas for youngsters Morden Park has a rich heritage and we should • No. All things evolve but due consideration make more of it needs to be taken so that the widest possible set of needs can be met. Comment: • Absolutely Statement: • The main heritage is open space for the Natural play facilities are better than conventional community at large to enjoy playground facilities • Yes • Yes, that’s true. The boards around the park go Comment: some way towards this, but they need to be • Not necessarily maintained • Have no opinion • Yes • There should be opportunities for both sorts of • Yes definitely – there is scope for interpretive playground in such a large area panels to explain the history and the historic • Both required features that survive. • Yes – provided they use natural materials, • Swimming baths hall building is a fine example especially timber, to integrate with the of 1960’s architecture which complements its landscape setting setting. It is a locally listed building within a • I agree, but we need both Conservation area and it should be retained, • They look better refurbished if necessary, and continue as • The are another option, not a replacement swimming baths. • Yes, nature play facilities are better • Yes • Yes, but they have to be yob and graffiti proof • Yes • Yes • I don’t know what it is, but I imagine we should • Yes • Burial mound • Yes, for older children • Toilets yes
67 • No we need proper lighting in the evenings • Yes, I regularly walk my dog and go out to clear my head before bed after 10.30 at night, The park is really beautiful by starlight
Statement: Morden Park is accessible to all
Comment: • Yes, but some outside organisations abuse the goodwill of the local residents. Extremely loud music is audible from a long distance from the perimeter of the park. This should be adequately policed and prevented from annoying the local area • Agree, everyone should know a bit more about • Needs disability improvement the history of the park i.e back to Saxon times • Yes • Exhibits on Roman Road. Get a replica built. • Yes Displays on old Ha-Ha and pond • Limited disabled access, could be improved by • Yes exploiting that ‘all weather’ path right around • Yes the park • Yes • Yes, plenty of car parking in local roads • Yes • Yes, accessibility to all is important. Disabled • Not the burial mound. A section of the roman access could be improved road could be excavated to become a precious • Yes commodity • Yes • Yes • Yes • Yes SAFETY, ACCESS, EVENTS AND LEISURE • Yes PURSUITS • Not if you’re in a wheelchair
Statement: Statement: I feel safe in all times in Morden Park There is no problem with anti-social behaviour
Comment: Comment: • This is an unfair question. Any open space – 24 • Yes there is hours – by implication is not safe at all times. • Do not agree, have been shouted, rude But, I feel as safe as one can be in Morden Park comments by teenagers hanging around park • Most of the time on seats near Bow Lane entrance • I do not feel safe in the winter months at • I have never encountered anti-social behaviour 6.45am • (same comment as above) • Yes, I walk my dog after dark frequently and • Only encountered it once in many years walk from Bow Lane to Merton College every • Get rid of graffiti covered old changing rooms day throughout the year for work that attract yobs • Agree • Have never encountered anti-social behaviour in • Yes, I do feel safe during the day. Would feel my years of using park vulnerable after dark • From time to time there are very late night • I do not feel safe in double fenced outer path. drinking, parties or BBQs on playing fields Take down inner fence • What is done to engage youth? The tree • Yes planting morning was superbly attended. Ask • Not in the evening for more volunteer orientated events • No, I don’t think there is. For a huge open
68 space which is almost completely unsupervised • Buggy – no. Depends whether frenetic, if so, there is very little vandalism to the plants and please no trees. The bins are set alight, but if they were • Chess – why not? emptied they wouldn’t burn! • Outdoor chess – good idea • Possibly! Statement: • No view Morden Park is the perfect place to hold large • Yes, why not? events Statement: Comment: Clear open space in the park creates a feeling of • For some events, yes. Where the whole safety, even when it’s dark community benefits e.g. Bank Holiday events • Yes Comment: • Yes, it has its own train station, bus routes and • Yes, too many buildings or like can harbour tube. Use money to pay for park’s upkeep unfortunates • Not using park as a car park, let people walk • Many parks are closed after hours • Keep to bandstand speakers facing in, not a • Bus routes are much improved around the park new facility or Rutland Drive, where sound will • Please avoid intruding in to green space with bounce lighting the space excessively • Agree • No. You need lighting when it’s dark • It is a good place, but not on a regular basis • Please don’t put lighting up. The access parts • From time to time. Much of the value of the are lit, but the park should stay natural park playing fields’ is peaceful space • Without the woods, it would not be a park – I • It is a ‘good’ place but far from perfect think the actual incidence of attacks is very • No! Ground erosion an issue. Un-supervised small location • Open in the dark can still be scary if you feel • Not very large events all the time. Just vulnerable. We need the trees to make it a occasionally park and not just a grass field • Yes it is, but that is not what it should be used • Whilst being a truism it must be irrelevant – this for too frequently is a park with woods • Yes • No, we need the trees. This is a park after all, • Yes not just a green space • Yes • Keep large open spaces for visibility but more • Yes trees around the outside
Statement: We should use the space for alternative leisure pursuits, like outdoor chess or kite-buggying
Comment: • Yes • Outdoor chess • Bridge Club • Bandstand area convenient location for schools, amateur, professional concerts, picnics • Yes, too many buildings or like can harbour unfortunates • Kite buggying and musical concerts; open air for plays/theatrical events • Keep large outdoor fields to enable different activities, do not put buildings on it, keep it green
69
Age
12
11
10
15 or underunder 16 - 19 8 20 - 24 7 7 7 7 7 25 - 29 r
e 30 - 34 b
m 6 35 - 39 u
N 40 - 44 5 5 5 5 45 - 49
50 - 54 4 4 55 - 59 60 - 64
65 - 69 70 - 74 2 2 2 75 or over 1
0 15 or under16 - 19 20 - 24 25 - 29 30 - 34 35 - 39 40 - 44 45 - 49 50 - 54 55 - 59 60 - 64 65 - 69 70 - 74 75 or over
Age Groups 4.8 BANK HOLIDAY EVENT Sex DEMOGRAPHICS In total 77 questionnaires were returned from the final event, along with an additional 4 further comments slips.
26 The demographic information of those who Male returned the questionnaire is: Female 38
Disability
7
Yes No
70
71 “Because there are many of these already and it’s nice to have open spaces.”
“I prefer natural look/state of park.”
“Open pitches yes, but no building.”
“It’s good to have some green spaces first for walking without other activities.”
“There are ample places to play football and tennis in the area already.”
“More football pitches and tennis courts would be welcome, but my worry is how these facilities will be maintained and managed.”
SPORT, RECREATION AND PLAY “This needs to be considered very carefully. There The first section of the questionnaire dealt with are many sports fields locally operating without sport, recreation and play. The general consensus public subsidy. Additional provision in Morden revealed in this section was that sport is an park could undermine the viability of these other important presence in the park, but that much facilities unless there is significant suppressed could be done to improve the facilities. demand (which I doubt.)” A detailed review of each question follows. One person stated “Do not know where the 1. The provision of more sporting facilities, such as playing fields are sorry!” football pitches or tennis courts is welcomed and that the most appropriate location for such 2. Current play facilities are inadequate, with the facilities would be on Morden Park Playing Fields. playground located behind Morden park registry office needing significant updating. A mixture of In total 71 people (91%) agreed with the natural and more traditional play facilities are statement and 7 (9%) disagreed with the desired, providing activities that young children statement. Of those who agreed with the can enjoy. statement, a few expressed certain conditions, such as that more sporting facilities be provided in 74 people agreed with this statement (96%) and moderation and not by private business. These only 3 people (4%) disagreed. Those who agreed comments are noted below: with the statement noted that the tennis courts and playground needed to be updated. These “As long as it is football pitches, not Goals.” comments are noted below:
“In moderation, do not destroy the wide “The paddling pool should remain as this is open spaces.” great (needs new toilets though.)”
“Yes, but not by private enterprise.” “Fix the tennis courts and build a basketball court.” “But, rather than building new ones, use and update old ones.” “The playground badly needs upgrading. There should also be a more direct access routes Those who disagreed with the statement noted from Hillcross Avenue via the Playing fields.” that it was because they preferred the open space of the park, or because they felt that there were Those who disagreed with the statement already adequate facilities. These comments are expressed the following comments: noted below:
72 “I see lots of children enjoying the traditional Once more, the majority of respondents (66 facilities – just add to them.” people – 88%) agreed with the statement, with few disagreeing (9 people – 12%.) However, many 3.While a wide range and mix of sports and of those who agreed with the statement noted recreational facilities is desired, there is little conditions, such as that the facilities be appetite for this to be provided through supervised, which are noted below. Others made commercial or private enterprise. further suggestions for provisions for teenagers:
69 (92%) of those who responded to this “Do not forget the swimming pool. question agreed with the statement while 6 Teenage boys have fantastic fun diving – people (8%) disagreed with it. A great number of just watch them!” comments were expressed in this section which follow below: “Fun more adventurous playgrounds.”
“This has created major objections. I refer of “Also hand gliders.” course to a possible private company’s involvement. This should not be considered.” “Which would stop some of them vandalising the buildings.” “This is a public asset and should be managed for public benefit.” “But supervised”
“All that has been suggested and rejected is “Provided only the former cycle track can be football. There is far more to life than football.” utilised for this purpose.” Those who disagreed with the statement noted: Those who disagreed raised concerns about safety “Private enterprise could have the potential to and noise which are noted below: provide better facilities.” “If all the facilities in the Playing Fields area come “More privately owned sports facilities would give about there will be plenty for all ages to do: leave young people more to do, for a small fee.” the Park for walking and sitting in peace.”
“I sympathise with the view expressed, but given “Because skate boarding and BMX riding is not the lack of funds available from the borough to the only thing teens like.” ensure the vision, my sense is that this option should not be ruled out before further “Uncertain about safety issues and excessive exploration.” noise.”
“I am not sure it matters who provides the facilities, provided they are available to all at reasonable cost/concessions for the young, elderly and disabled.”
“All resources should be considered. Non- public funding should be given firm guidelines on how/what they do.”
4. For older children – particularly teenagers – there is nothing to do in Morden Park. The provision of some facilities, such as a stakeboard park or BMX track, would be a welcome addition o the park.
73 “These activities may encourage more rowdy NAUTRE, LANDSCAPING AND WILDLIFE behaviour in the evenings.” The next section of the questionnaire dealt with nature, landscaping and wildlife. This section “Too noisy and dangerous – would need revealed that nature and its preservation is an supervision.” important factor for Morden Park users. Two statements were proposed in this section and the “Teenagers seem to have plenty of options in the majority of respondents agreed with both: Sutton area.” 1. The landscape of Morden Park is appreciated 5. If funding became available, then the and should be maintained. While Morden park modernisation of Morden Park Pools would be Playing Fields are appropriate for sports and welcomed. The current 33-metre pool and diving recreation uses, the rest of the park should not area is well liked and efforts should be made to see significant change. ensure this remains in any new leisure development. 70 people (91%) agreed with this statement while 7 (9%) disagreed with it. Only one comment was 100% of people who responded to the expressed by those who agreed with the questionnaire agreed with the statement, with the statement which was that no significant change following comments being expressed: should be seen to the landscape of the park. However, those who disagreed with the statement “The size of the pool is the only good aspect of expressed detailed comments which follow below: the current centre. All else needs to be upgraded. The location is good.” “The ground around the house needs attention – old woody plants taken up – new more suitable “Another important feature of the pool must be plants to surround the house.” retained: that it has natural light.” “Morden Park is under-used mostly used by dogs “Merton always seems to run out of money when and their owners.” it comes to Morden pools.” “I would prefer to see much of the playing fields “The pool is well liked but the pool and the developed as parkland and resource for nature complex are too dirty, the changing rooms are conservation.” awful.” “There should be an overall plan for the whole “Yes! Yes! Yes! The only decent swimming pool in park.” the borough. Good for diving and serious swimming.” “It needs more all weather paths and pathways for walkers and cyclists.”
“We should maintain it, but more work to be done on its history, Roman Road, Mound etc, let’s make more of this.”
2. The protection and enhancement of nature and wildlife in Morden Park is a high priority, with a clean, easily accessible pond and more trees (especially along the park boundaries) as key aims.
72 people (95%) agreed with this statement, with only 4 people (5%) expressing disagreement with it. One comment was noted by those who agreed
74 with the statement, which requested that the stream be accessible. Those who disagreed did so because they believed that the enhancement of nature was not a high priority. Their comments follow below:
“There are sufficient areas of water and trees (which will self-perpetuate in time.”
“I think there are enough trees.”
“A pond may be dangerous for unsupervised children. I agree with more trees around the boundaries but not inside. The open aspect provides a feeling of safety.” “There are already boards around the park giving information about the various “Not a high priority, regard as medium priority.” aspects of the park.” “It’s about right as it is.” “There are lots of signs.” “There are four ponds already in the park and “Ruins Park.” playing fields all of which are fenced off. Where would a new pond be located?” “May be vandalised” ACCESS AND SECURITY “Ok as it is.” The third section of the questionnaire looked at access and security in Morden Park. The 2. A warden or park keeper would increase a consensus that emerged in this section was that feeling of safety in the park, helping to deal with generally speaking access and security should be anti-social behaviour as well as the problem of improved in the park. litter and the proliferation of dog mess. 72 people (92%) agreed with this statement, with 1.Morden Park requires better signage at entry 6 people (8%) disagreeing with it, often on the points with information boards outlining the grounds of funding. A number of comments were facilities available and the wildlife in the area. expressed by those who agreed which are included below: 72 people (94%) agreed with this statement, while 6 people (8%) disagreed with it. However, “99% of people clean up after their dogs, it’s some of those who agreed with the statement having bins to put it in that’s needed. Also noted that in addition, more rubbish and dog rubbish bins. After an event (circus/fireworks) the waste bins are needed. These comments are park needs rubbish bins.” noted below: “But the public has to be more conscious of “It also needs rubbish bins and dog waste bins at keeping the park clean and safe – get voltuneers.” entry/exit points.” “I’m amazed there isn’t one already – never seems “So long as new signs are on external roads and to be any troublesome behaviour when I’m there brown signs.” though.” Those who disagreed with the statement, did so on the following grounds:
75 2 people disagreed with this statement by saying:
“I have seen people in wheelchairs, scooters and on crutches able to negotiate the park. A few more benches around might help.”
“I think they are adequate, though perhaps not perfect. It would take away from the natural if paths were too unnaturally ‘resurfaced.’ I have in the past taken a friend in a wheelchair around parts of the park.”
One person noted that they did not have enough knowledge of disability requirements to be able to comment on the statement. The following comments were expressed by those who disagreed with the statement: HISTORY, HERITAGE AND EVENTS The final topical section of the questionnaire “I think there should be a grounds man to looked at the history and heritage of Morden Park maintain the general tidiness and upkeep of the along with the events that are held there. This park – but not a warden controlling what goes on section clearly revealed that the people of Morden in the park.” are proud of the history and heritage of Morden Park and are keen to make the most of it. “People may still continue to litter or use verbal abuse to the Park Keeper.” 1.The park should include display boards that outline the history of the park and direct visitors to “Waste of funding.” Morden Park House, the Ancient Mound and the site of the Roman Road. “Most people who use the park are pleasant and a park keeper would probably make things 98% of respondents agreed with this idea, with a worse.” few conditions being expressed which are as follows: “Wardens are not effective without powers.” “But this should not be excessive.” “I am not convinced that the extra cost is necessary.” “Vandalism proof.” 3. The current paths into and through the park are unsuitable for disabled people and should be “To make people feel more welcome.” improved. “It already includes these.”
Of those who responded, 69 (96%) people agreed “Yes, but there should be vandal-proof, otherwise with the above statement, expressing the very good idea elsewhere in Merton Park.” following comments: 1 Person disagreed: “They could be improved by making sure there is space.” “There are already boards around the park giving information about the various aspects of the “Need cuttings back more often” park.”
“In order to make a park barrier free you have to provide much more – walkways etc.”
76 2.Any events in the park should be used to create “But at an affordable price for families to be able profit to go towards the maintenance and to attend.” improvements of the park. “With reservation regarding the ‘events’ – NOT an 71 people (92%) agreed with the statement, with organisation such as GOALS.” 6 people (8%) disagreeing with it. However, some of those who agreed in principle with the idea 3.The bandstand should be utilised more, expressed limitations and conditions in their particularly by local groups. comments, which are noted below: 74 of those who responded to the questionnaire “And we should be able to see the effects of this (97%) agreed with this concept and 2 people did policy and not use the funds for any other not agree with the statement. Those who agreed projects.” with the statement expressed enthusiasm as well as raising concerns over finishing times of “Depends on the event. No Goals or the like.” concerts, ticket prices and noise levels:
“Any chance of events in the park being free – so “Bring back the bands!” no need to worry about what to do with the profits?” “But not too late at night.”
“Yes, Including park and Ride monies for “In the 50’s and 60’s Sunday evening band Wimbledon fortnight.” concerts were a regular, well attended event.”
“With limitation. Any proposed revenue within “But also groups outside Merton, e.g. theatre these activities should have restrictions.” groups and orchestras. End-time to be enforced by 11pm.” Those who did not agree with the idea of profits from park events going towards maintenance of “Yes, but not at night because of noise to local Morden Park did so on the following grounds: residents.”
“Pricing will restrict access. Need is there for a “Not always to be paid for.” free venue for activities.” “Yes – but it can be overheard at times.” “Because the people who are using the park may not have money to pay for some of the events.” “Provided that music played here should not be too loud. Current events are too loud and almost “A park is essentially public and should be shake the ground in our garden.” paid for by the council.”
“In order for events to be accessible to all parts of the community, all events should be on a non-profit basis.” “Depends on the event! If a community event, does the Council charge for this?”
“Events should also be available for the benefit of residents or local churches/homes/schools.”
“Agree with the aim but its too rigid to apply freely and approachable activity- wise.”
77 As seen in comments raised by those who agreed • Maximising revenue opportunities in the park with the idea of using the bandstand more, noise – through commercial events or commercial levels were also raised as a reason not to hold development – is the best way to fund future concerts in Moden Park. The following reasons improvements in the park. 34 Agreed with were given by those who disagreed with this 42 Did not agree with this statement. the statement: • A levy on Council Tax payers in the locality, “The bandstand area is quite small within the similar to that for residents living close to hedges. If it is to be used it would need to be a Wimbledon Common, is the best way to bigger area.” provide funding for the future of the park. 35 Agreed with this 38 Did not agree with “Yes and no. Not just local groups. Maybe this statement. classical concerts.” • Volunteer forces should be set up to provide “Consideration must be given to regulations the necessary support to maintain and regarding noise. Previously unacceptable noise enhance the park. 69 Agreed with this levels at music activities has caused major 5 Did not agree with this statement. nuisance. If additional activities are considered, a warden must be provided.” Following this exercise, residents were asked is they had any further idea on how to provide the DELIVERING THE VISION necessary financial support for delivering future The final section of the questionnaire looked at improvements to the park. A great number of delivering the vision for Morden Park. A number different ideas were expressed. Some residents of options were presented in the questionnaire suggested raising money from facilities such as and people were asked to tick whether they allotments, a café, park and ride and summer agreed or disagreed with these options. The fairs. Others suggested community partnerships, results of this follows below. lottery funding and volunteer staff. A few people suggested more commercial solutions such as • A community trust is the best way forward private sporting facilities. All of these ideas are for helping to deliver the vision, run through noted below: grant funding independent of the Council. 69 Agreed with this 4 Did not agree with “Allotments = rental. Café = revenue.” this statement. “Lottery funding.”
“Why don’t you use the Park and ride scheme revenue, from Wimbledon Tennis for future improvements to the Park and playing fields.”
“Levy on council tax payers in the locality.”
“Use the money obtained from the fee paid by Wimbledon lawn Tennis Club for the parking of park & ride during Wimbledon fortnight!”
“I don’t know, but Wimbledon Park is always popular and nicely maintained. How do they do it?”
“I think the council should pay for most facilities but a few commercial events to raise money would be good.”
78 “Do the odd antique fair every summer Bank Holiday as well as everything else and every stall pay a few pounds towards funding for a good future for Morden.”
“If allowed – have allotments – you can charge rental for them! They would also provide extra security for the area as people would be working on them both day and evening.”
“Apply to government, if independent, for grants or different charities like the Woodland Trust.” volunteer “Claiming from the Lottery Fund.” forces – i.e. like the Park Police and specials.” “The Park and Ride scheme for Wimbledon Tennis must create a huge amount of money which could “I have lived close to the Park for over 20 years be set aside for park improvement. A café in the and have used it for running. Unfortunately the park would bring more people here and a small trail has been left to break down, I would like to levy could be applied to food and drink to go se this updated and returned to its original state.” towards a park fund.” “The park was left to the community by Mr “All these options should be considered, together Hatfeild. It should be up to the council to with further exploration of a commercial venture. maintain it to the standard he left it.” There is a precedent in the Borough i.e. the David Lloyd Centre on George’s Playing Fields. “Option 3: if you did this for Morden then it That has worked.” would have to be done for all the other parks in “Listen to the young people, it’s their buy-in you Merton. need the most.” Option 4: I thought the woodland trust was involved in this.” “Fun days!” “Fundraisers.” “Community based partnership.” “Option 1 is a good idea in principle. Unless “Cycling paths and picnic areas should be allowed. someone is prepared to put themselves forward… Use some area as allotments.” Option 2 – This is the wrong time to ask for additional funds. There are already question “Make people from outside Merton pay for using marks over funding. the park. Remove Merton College from near Option 3 – Volunteer forces should not be Morden Park.” necessary. There is already a community order in place by the courts. This should/could be utilised “Apply for lottery funding – anything that is to good effect for all going. Population of Merton is growing rapidly. Option 4 – This was always the crucial question Advertise its facilities and communication that required an answer. Resolve of this project transport with Mitcham.” will be analysed with interest.”
“National Lottery Fund?” To conclude the questionnaire, residents were given to opportunity to express any further “Lottery Funding” comments they had on Morden Park or the consultation process. These comments are noted “I think it would need a mix of paid staff and below.
79 weeds that there is very little space to walk by. Its quite dangerous.”
“Well done, this consultation has been professionally designed, managed and delivered.”
“I would like to see more paths in this park, more seating, an area for dogs (fenced off) an area for young mothers and children with fenced enclosures, no dogs, and small play equipment.”
“No building on any part of the park. Planting more trees. Kick out the Tory Councillors. Bring in more wildlife. More park information.” “Do hope the Council will take note of our views and act accordingly.” “Please preserve the swimming pool at all costs. Far less expensive to upgrade than build a new “Morden Park is a lovely area with some stunning pool. It is the only pool for serious swimmers for views, it just needs to be maintained. Having park miles around.” keepers back to look after it would help, also just keeping the grass cut would enhance the park. “Not mentioned anywhere – but it would be nice As the grass grows and dries the shabbier it to have the cycleway going all round the park – becomes.” like the one in Richmond Park – as there are so few cycles it would double as an ‘all-weather’ “We hope you act accordingly to these proposals.” path suitable for the disabled and for parents with child buggies.” “Thank you for asking for our views/opinions – we hope that you will be able to accept them and act “More litter bins. Leave leaflets at Travelodge to accordingly.” tell young travellers to clean up after themselves. Start day event “we clean up” in co-op with “Undecided on volunteers, what legal authority schools, residents etc..” would they have to deal with human problems?” “The play facilities in Ravensbury park are “I think a café by a pond would be a nice focal excellent; it would be great to have equipment point. Don’t ban dogs. Sometimes, dog walkers like that in Morden Park.” are the only park users in the winter.” “More signage from the main roads to indicate “To implement the outdoor gym which we had, how pedestrians find their way in – I spent a very but just fell into disrepair. I have contacted long time looking for an entrance with not too Merton Council about this, but there was no much asking ‘where?’ Especially banners, which interest to implement new equipment even could be re-used year after year to enable though we are in a society of increased obesity.” newcomers to attend.”
“I hope the council will actually listen to residents’ “Any arrangement (commercial/voluntary etc) to views and take note of Dialogue’s report and act provide tea, coffee etc, perhaps near to the on it!” playground would be very welcome.”
“Something should be done to clear the path “I would be willing to support any further ventures along by the stream by the cricket pitch. The part in improving the park. Thanks for your efforts in by the side of the tree bank is so overgrown with bringing to the public he importance of the park.”
80 “Refurbish toilets in swimming pool (They are 4.9 HOLIDAY CLUB terrible at the moment.) Café in park would be a good idea. Don’t’ leave quite so much wild – it is On the 5th of July 2009 Dialogue attended a a park not an open woodland.” holiday club to ask local children about what they would like to see in Morden Park. The majority of “A new perimeter path would be great to allow a young people noted that they would like to see good distance walk/jog/cycling/prams or improved sports facilities in the park including a wheelchairs. With information boards at points basketball court and cricket nets, indeed, this and this would encourage access to lesser used emerged as a priority. The young people noted parts of the park.” that they would also like to see more facilities such as benches and picnic areas. In addition, “Outside Gym.” some noted that a youth centre would be a valuable addition to the park. As seen with other “Please put up banners advertising this event. demographics, nature and upkeep was an There are several entrances where they should be important feature of the park. Enthusiasm was clearly displayed at least a week before hand also expressed for music events in the park. “Bank holiday” etc So if you didn’t hear or read about it, you would see it passing by in the car or Sport and leisure on the bus …as I did. Bins by stallholders would be helpful for their discarded coffee cips that blow “The pool should be a bit cleaner.” about otherwise.” “Pool filled” “What has happened to the Children’s Play Park, like Priory Park Reigate? What about golf course “New swings” and driving range? What about all weather football areas? What about paths for cycling, “Cricket Square!” running, walking all round the Park. Thanks.” “There should be a better play area.” “Skate Park – yes yes yes!!! If you do go ahead with a skate park, please ask skaters what they “More facilities for ages 4-13.” would like!” “Basketball cage.” “Please make the changing rooms cleaner and a pleasure to use. They are too dirty. Improving the “New swimming pool e.g. make it more hygienic.” park with sport facilities is a great idea.” “Football fields.” “Cheap teen gym. Free swimming hours.”
“Band competitions for the bandstand. Get bands from schools in Merton to compete.”
“All profit from car parking should be for park and playing field maintenance.”
“Would like a gym where parents who cannot afford the fees for the gym to be able to come to the park and exercise with their children.”
81 “Cricket fields/netball courts.” Youth Centre
“Repair cricket nets.” “Have a children youth club centre to discuss what becoming an adult really means. Run different “Jacuzzi.” tasks each week.”
“Where there’s the slide and that, I think there “Youth clubs.” should be stuff for older children.” Nature “More sports equipment.” “A Lake.” “Astroturf.” “I think it should have some flowers so it “basketball and rugby.” looks inviting.”
Facilities “introduce a bit of wildlife.”
“benches” “Pond and deer, just a few!”
“Picnic area” Upkeep
“The park could be more for older children “Graffiti cleared.” than younger.” “Cleared of litter” “Make the wooden things safer.” “No dogs allowed.” “More apparatus.” Events “Free internet café.” “Gigs on stage.” “I would like it to be more entertaining because when I go there all I do is walk around but then I “Music concerts with indie and up-to-date music.” get bored.” “recording studios.”
“I think you should maybe have a bandstand for gigs and a nice playground, but nothing that will take over because it’s already a really good park –loads of people like it as it is!!!!!!”
“Just leave it.”
“It’s the best park in Merton.”
82 4.10 LOCAL SCHOOLS “Have a rope swing.”
Aragon Primary School “Horse back riding.” Student Council – Years 3 to 6 “Better toilet facilities. Indoor café. More things The following comments were made by students for older children in the park. Deeper paddling during a visit to Aragon School: pools and re-filled more. Woodland areas and an adventure play area.” “More Play areas.” “In Morden Park there aren’t any flowers and “Benches on hill for lunch of some things. Pond.” people leave food and rubbish there.”
“Horse back riding, café, pond and more play “Karaoke on the big stage. A big trampoline with areas. Benches on hill for lunch of something.” a net around. Some new exercise equipment.”
“Have more bins for fire works night because it “Horse back riding lessons. Private area for gets messy.” camping. Café. Play area for babies.”
“People should work in the park and pick up the “Horse back riding, café, sand box with dog dog poo and the litter.” digger.”
“Trees, green space, more swings (grown up “it could be improved if you have new things for ones), roundabout fixed.” older people. Better toilet facilities, indoor café, a deeper swimming pool more often re-filled in the “More atmosphere, e.g more flowers. Fix the little summer.” park roundabout. Fix the monkey bars and trim “Make more play equipment.” trail.” “Make fire works night much more noticeable so “Put football goals in but don’t put Goals up (12 more people come.” pitch goals.)” “Grown up kids swings, climbing frame, bigger “Picking up the litter, more playing things, get the play equipment.” roundabout fixed, get some monkey bars/fix them.” “More activities, more plants, deeper swimming pool, fix roundabout, get more swings, more space to run around.”
Hatfeild Primary and Abbotsbury Primary Schools - this is a ‘word cloud’ showing suggestions from children attending the aforementioned schools.
83 4.11 BAITUL FUTUH MOSQUE
Demographics: 50 47 45
40 39
Sex 35
r 30 e b
m 25
2 u N 17 20 Male 15
Female 10 6 5 3 Did not 0 Disclose 14 or under 15 - 40 41 or over Did not disclose 66 Age Groups
How frequently do you use the park?
35 35
30
25 22
r 20 e b m
u 16 N 15
10
5 3 3
0 Almost every day At least once a At least once a Less often Hardly ever week month Frequency What do you use the Park for?
70 3 6
60
7 4 50 r
e 40 b m u N 30 2 0 2 2
6 20 1
8 10
0 Walking/running Somewhere to Playing sport Cycling Park events Other meet friends Activities
84 Should the following activities take place in Morden Park?
90
79 80 78 75 72
Yes 70 Yes No No Net 63 63 Net 61 59 60 56 56 54 52 51 49 50 48 47 r 46 e 45
b
m 43 u 41 N 40 39 40 37 35 34 34 33
29 30
23 23 22 21 20 20 20 19 19 15 14 14 12 10 10 10 9 10 7
3 1 1
s s y s 0 g e t s l i s l n s n s s s t o i s i a n e s o t t e i h h m n m h s e u n t o h e i e h n t u a o o u r a i r g c m s k c n a P o c i c b A t P s u l u c i e P a g R L A m i a a e c b r P T g e n t n g t i o l i d c e C l r s n g i a n c l n c m o l t o i e m i n v c l a y y g i o b i i a o n R l a b C m n v u r P v d n G i r F c i t / a P p r t u e o o é w h g r l p u R f s o S C n o O a s i e y F / f C l r v h b l l a l s t a o a B e n v y m H h u n c b r r s I t o i n s t s r u e N e p i o i l R t t l i p i s l a i S v e i b i c t t t i a c o l F A o i F c l a a F i c i f i t r A Activity A c t i v i t y 85
Running paths: No 7 Yes 79 Net -56 No 1 Net +78 Facilities run by the local community: Yes 59 Cycle paths: No 10 Yes 75 Net -49 No 3 Net +72 Facilities run by private business: Yes 20 Gymnasium No 39 Yes 43 Net -19 No 23 Net +20 Cricket: Yes 63 Café/ Restaurant No 9 Yes 23 Net +54 No 45 Net -22 Normal football pitches: Yes 48 Swimming pool No 14 Yes: 41 Net +34 No: 29 Net +12 Outdoor tennis: Yes 52 Sports hall/Changing rooms No 15 Yes 47 Net +37 No 33 Net +14 Any other sports: Badminton, Volley ball,
Bars serving alcohol: “it is good for public health and fitness” Yes 10 No 61 “Charity Work” Net -51 “Use for local activities” Activities involving flood lighting: Yes 34 4.12 OTHER REPRESENTATIONS No 35 Net -1 MPWIR response to consultation
Public Access: 1. Merton Park Ward Independent Residents Yes 56 (MPWIR) has represented Merton Park Ward No 10 since 1989 as an Independent party sponsored Net +46 by the Merton Park Ward Residents Association. Artificial football pitches for private business: Yes 21 2. The railway line to the east of the Park forms No 40 the boundary between the ward and the Park. Net -19 Our residents in London Road and Links Avenue are particularly concerned for the Picnic area: future of Morden Park as their most accessible Yes 63 open space, although residents from other parts of the ward also value its amenities.
86 The mosque of the Ahmadiyya Muslim 5. In the longer term Sites A & B should be Association (AMA) is situated immediately west returned to their former use as playing fields, of the railway line and forms the largest faith subject to evidence of sustainable demand. organisation in the ward. The AMA has The Park should be retained as a natural area specific requirements for sport and recreation, for conservation, informal recreation and play. which they will convey directly to Local These roles should be distinct, with no spillover Dialogue. of facilities for organised sport into the Park.
3. MPWIR’s response to the consultation is based 6. It has been suggested that Sites A & B should on discussion with our members at their recent be kept much as they are now, but that would AGM, attendance at the AGM of the Morden be a wasted opportunity. They present an Park & Playing Fields Association (MPPFA) and uninteresting vista of rough grassland, used the Morden Community Forum in July and only by a few joggers and dog walkers. All of participation in the final workshop facilitated the activities currently carried out here could be by Local Dialogue on 18 July. We are transferred to the Park, with minimal personally familiar with the Park from many inconvenience to users - the two Sites offer no visits over the years. unique or irreplaceable benefits. Because they slope slightly to the south-west, the Sites offer 4. Today Morden Park gives the impression of a an impressive view of the AMA mosque which park that has lost its identity and is suffering should be preserved in any future from benign neglect that can only erode its development. (However the view would be character further, causing a drop in user most improved by replacing the ugly girders on numbers. A series of small and simple the railway bridge with a lower parapet.) measures could arrest the impression of neglect and improve its user friendliness, 7. Sites A & B should not simply be restored to pending major decisions on future land use: the state they were in when leased to the London Playing Fields Society (LPFS) however. - Barriers between sections of the Park eg. User requirements have moved on since then, Sites A & B, the main car park and the and the Sites must offer modern facilities if Park should be made permeable and they are to attract bookings in a competitive rubble removed to create safe and visible marketplace. This probably means some all transition points. At present it is not weather playing surfaces and floodlighting to apparent there will be any exit point on ensure a reliable flow of bookings through all reaching the far side of the field. seasons. The quantum of non-grass pitches - Entrances to the Park on London Road will ultimately be a matter for the planning should be clearly signed with name system, but needs to be managed sensitively to boards respond to conservation interests. Technical - Maps should be provided at all main improvements have minimised light pollution entrances and car parks to identify the from floodlighting overspill, and further specific location (“You are here”) screening can be achieved by siting all weather - Toilets should be provided close to the pitches against the railway embankment. main car park - Building rubble from the residual footprint of buildings that have been demolished should be cleared to ensure the sites are safe - Tennis courts and other hard play surfaces that are being used informally should be stabilised to allow informal use to continue in safety.
87 8. Changing rooms and clubhouse facilities will 11. The children’s play area adjacent to the car have to be built, with access and parking from park is poorly equipped in comparison to most London Road using the existing access to the of Merton’s parks (cf. Ravensbury for example), car park, rather than reinstating access from and is much in need of the additional funding Hillcross Avenue. The construction of these that has now been promised. facilities should take account of the requirements of likely users, including the AMA 12. The Mound stands at the epicentre of the Park community who will need segregated facilities and is the highest point from which to enjoy for male and female users. views over the surrounding suburbs – or would be, if some undergrowth were cleared. But 9. If the development of Sites A & B as modern paths lead past the Mound rather than to its playing fields is to be cost neutral for Merton summit, and its historic origins are underserved council, both the capital costs and the ongoing by the rather limited information board. Given management will have to be funded from the proximity of the Roman road, much more other sources. The formation of a Community could be made of this natural feature. Trust would open the way to sources of grant funding not open to the council, provided the 13. The absence of hard surfacing to the paths stakeholders in the trust were representative of and tracks is appreciated by walkers and the wider community of potential users and joggers, but almost impossible for wheel chair residents bordering the Park. Founder users to negotiate. Given that cyclists cannot stakeholders should be in a position to bring be prevented from using the Park, it might be users and revenues into the trust; this will better to provide some hard surfacing for bikes entail some trade off between attracting and wheelchairs to achieve segregation from sufficient revenues and minimising the walkers than continue the present pattern of environmental impact. mixed use.
10. The two principal assets of the Park are 14. The swimming pool is evidently close to the Morden Park House and the Mound, the end of its life, but the advantages of its full highest viewpoint. Since its restoration by length (33m) and 4m diving pit over the likely English Heritage, Morden Park House has replacement of a 25m pool of 1.8m maximum gained popularity as a wedding venue and is depth make the case for extending its useable also used for citizenship ceremonies. But it life for as long as possible. Architecturally, its could be used more widely; the courtyard in modernist design fits well in the parkland particular would make a good tea garden (with setting and any replacement should retain this entrance from the rear gates) and could even site. be used for open air concerts. This is a natural focal point for users of the Park, sited en route Cllrs Karin Forbes, Peter Southgate and Krysia from the car park to open expanses of Williams grassland. Merton Football Club – The future of Morden Park
1. Merton Football Club is part of the Morden Park and Playing Fields Community Trust Proposal for the future development of Morden Park. We believe that this is the best solution for the future of Morden Park and secures its use for the benefit of a wide community.
88 2. Merton Football Club is the oldest Amateur Football Club in the Borough. It celebrates its centenary next year. It has about 130 members and a wide following. It runs 6 adult men’s teams a Youth team and a Women’s team. The home ground is Joseph Hood Recreation Ground in Raynes Park where it has a small clubhouse and bar. For all its 99 years of existence it has been reliant on renting Council pitches for its games. (For more info see website www.Mertonfc.co.uk )
3. Over the past years it has become obvious that budgets for playing field maintenance and facilities are being squeezed 6. The Community Trust Scheme and though the staff do all they can to has all the following advantages; maintain standards without the money the - It involves a wide cross section of the standard of facilities is deteriorating and we Community embracing different sports, believe this decline cannot be halted without different culture, religions and different an increase in funding. In the current climate ethnic backgrounds. this is very unlikely. It also seems unlikely that - It provides new state of the art sports the Council will be able to provide any new facilties for a wide variety of games, state of the art modern football facilities in the (Football, Rugby, Cricket, Hockey, Tennis Borough out of ratepayers funds and i do not etc etc etc ) believe they have any plans to do so. - This makes use of the grants that are available from various bodies (Eg. Football 4. We have joined the Consortium because it Foundation) and does not require funds would provide new state of the art sporting from the Ratepayers of Merton although facilities for the London Borough of Merton at they will have the benefit of these no expense to the ratepayers and we would facilities. Several organisations from get a new home ground that would secure our within the Consortium have agreed to future for the next one hundred years. put up large capital sums to support the scheme 5. Currently the situation at Morden Park is a - The scheme has widely drawn support public disgrace. from within the community - The sporting facilities have been - It will ensure Public use of the Park by the vandalised and no sensible scheme to community at large. bring them back into use by the public has been adopted by the Council after all this time. - This park was left by a benefactor to the Community and the Council are failing in their duty as trustees by not getting them back into public use and then, even worse, trying to rent them to a commercial organisation. - How much time and public money has been wasted on all this?
89 90 Section 5. Feedback analysis and recommendations This sections sets out a series of recommendations, based on the feedback received during the consultation period. The points put forward are not designed to represent a short- term view of what must be done; rather, they provide a guide for the future of the park over a much longer time frame. The constraints and context of today will not necessarily be the constraints and context of the future. The recommendations provide a guide for the future of the park; not a definitive, immovable instruction on what happens and when. depend on the level of commercial development, as residents have made their views very clear on large-scale sports or recreational facilities. However, this was another area where opinion was split fairly evenly.
• Volunteer forces could be set up to provide the necessary support to maintain and enhance the park. Building on the Community Trust option, there are a number of individuals and groups within the locality who would give their time in this way.
The issue of how funding is secured is the most fundamental issue for the future of the park. While the consultation has unearthed some ideas 5.1 DELIVERING THE VISION on how this might be done, further work will be needed to establish which of the options above As clearly stated by the London Borough of could realistically be taken forward. Merton at the beginning of this community engagement exercise, the Council have no 5.2 SPORT AND RECREATION revenue or capital subsidy available to deliver any outcomes from the visioning exercise. Therefore, The responses from the workshops, stakeholder the question of how to deliver the vision is of interviews and the questionnaires revealed that crucial importance. most respondents believe that there should be sports facilities in the park, however there is No clear consensus has emerged on the most debate as to what type of facility, how many there appropriate way forward for providing the should be, and their locations. necessary revenue streams or capital funding, though a series of options that came out of the The presence of sporting and recreational facilities consultation deserve further exploration on their in the park is clearly the most controversial issue, deliverability: within the context of previous proposals for the playing fields area. Discussions around this area • A community trust, comprising a wide range were therefore heavily dominated by the of local groups and organisations, run ‘commercial question’. The clear steer from the through grant funding independent of the local community is that every effort should be Council. This will need further work to made to ensure that sports and recreational establish how external funding will be secured facilities are provided with out commercial and how ongoing revenue will be generated. involvement.
• A levy on Council Tax payers in the locality, This is not a universal. There are individuals within similar to that for residents living close to the community who believe that commercial Wimbledon Common, could provide an investment in facilities on the playing fields would ongoing revenue stream for the park. This be beneficial. However, they are in a minority. was suggested by a number of people during the consultation and, although not universally Cricket, football and tennis were found to be the popular, was considered a good idea by as activities that participants most wanted to be able many who thought it a bad one. to play in the park. Locations for cricket nets were favoured in the north east corner of the playing • Maximising revenue opportunities in the park, fields as well as the south east corner of the park. through either commercial events of Locations for cricket pitches were preferred to be commercial development. This would clearly in the north east corner of the playing fields as
92 well, and just north of the leisure centre. The most the gym closer to the existing leisure centre, play appropriate location for tennis pitches was facilities and car parking (see map X). Some of the thought to be adjacent to the railway tracks in the comments received in favour of location B north east of the playing fields. Football fields included, “it is nearer car park and swimming, were preferred for the traditional location of whereas Location A has no buildings and it would Playing Fields A and B. See map X for more detail. be shame to ruin the prettiness of the natural area.” This reflects the general attitude that the There were numerous comments about making more southern areas of the park should be left as the park and any eventual facilities open to the natural possible making it an unattractive option public and specifically schools and school aged for any type of development. children. It was felt throughout the workshops that better coordination with schools would Overall it appears that sports and recreation are increase the use of the park as a venue for sports felt to be important aspects of the park. However, and recreation. it varies as to how much of the park should be used for sports fields and facilities, but there is a Numerous respondents mentioned that Morden general agreement that Fields A and B are where Park should be taking advantage of the these facilities should be, that the Green Gym heightened awareness of sports and recreation in should be closer to existing facilities and that the promoting a healthy lifestyle as part of the run up pool should be refurbished versus relocated. to the 2012 Olympics. This was expressed in the questionnaires, workshops and the stakeholder RECOMMENDATIONS: interviews. • Sports and recreation facilities are desired and The possibility of finding funding to replace needed in the park and should be located in Morden Park Pools showed that most respondents the Playing Fields area. felt that the pools themselves were the most important aspect. In relation to this many felt that • Commercial development is not welcomed, refurbishments were greatly needed, with some even if it is the only means of providing regular users making comments on the cleanliness organised and managed facilities. of the pools and the changing area with one of the youth from the Holiday Club responding with, • Football, tennis, and cricket should be the “new swimming pool e.g. make it more hygienic.” priorities for sports provision, while also acknowledging that people would like as Many people also showed concern that should the wide a range as possible. pools be redeveloped that the new pools be of similar length. Some people expressed • A green gym would be hugely welcomed, apprehension that in the past when pools were though concerns remain from individuals that replaced they went from being lane swimming it will be vandalised. pools to leisure pools. • Should funds become available, the A restaurant and café were the second most refurbishment of Morden Park Pools in its important aspects of the Morden Park Pools current location would be supported; the should it be redeveloped. It was felt that due to most popular facilities to include would be a the size of the park, and the lack of services and swimming pool, café/restaurant, gym, amenities surrounding it that people would have teaching pool and a community indoor space. to leave the park to grab a bite to eat or drink, which discouraged people and their families to • The 2012 Olympics should provide the context use it on a more regular basis. for driving forward the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, which involves use of the Between the choice of an AdiZone or Green Gym park. for Morden Park the Green Gym was the preferred option. Generally of the three location options proposed respondents preferred the option with
93 5.3 NATURE, LANDSCAPING field were on the lower area of the park in the AND WILDLIFE West, close the boundary with Lower Morden Lane and also due north of the bandstand, on the It is clear from both the responses to the edge of Field B. questionnaires and the workshops that nature is the cornerstone of Morden Park and is held very Some residents raised concerns that the highly by the residents of Morden. This sentiment hedgerows be conserved as natural habitats and was also echoed by the local young people at the that deciduous trees be planed whenever possible holiday club at St Teresa’s Church and at it order to encourage native wildlife. Abbotsbury, Hillcross and Aragon Primary Schools.
Protecting and preserving nature is therefore of central importance to the majority of residents, as Along with the addition of more trees and plants well as enhancing it and helping it to flourish. the majority of people who responded to the Indeed, the questionnaire at the final bank holiday questionnaires felt that a pond would make the event revealed that 96% of those who completed most valuable contribution to Morden Park. Local the questionnaire felt that the protection and young people also suggested a lake and enhancement of nature and wildlife in Morden introducing more wildlife into the park, including Park was a high priority. deer. Four different locations were proposed for a pond in the workshops: the areas bordering the cricket pitch on the far southern boundary to the Residents agreed that there are a good variety of Epson Road, the areas immediately to the north of trees and plants in the park, but many people the cricket pitch, central to field B of the Morden stated that they believed that the park could Park Playing Fields and towards the north west of benefit from more trees being planted. The whole the park, close to the boundary with Hillcross perimeter of the park was seen as the most Avenue. appropriate place for more trees to be placed. The perimeter opposite Morden South Rail was the This is clearly a feature that ties in with the most popular area for trees since it would shield importance of visual attractiveness expressed in the park from the London Road. the questionnaire, and is also closely linked with Both the older and younger generation agreed the concerns with wildlife and nature. Indeed, that more plants and flowers would make a attracting and maintaining wildlife was seen to be valuable contribution to the park. Among the a very important consideration in landscaping for suggestions for flowers and plants, the most the residents of Morden. Many residents noted popular were for wild flowers and hay meadows. that biodiversity should be encouraged and nature A consensus emerged that the Morden Park area protected. The addition of a pond would attract should be a natural field. Preferred locations wildlife to the park and therefore would be a for a hay valuable attribute in aesthetic, ecological and educational terms.
Residents were not very positive about allotments and an orchard in the questionnaire, with only very few people naming them as what they saw as the most valuable contribution to Morden Park. At the workshops residents were more positive about an orchard, but concerns were raised as to where the orchard could be situated. In the workshop activity, residents suggested the allotments be placed on the boundary with Hillcross Avenue. Feelings were torn over allotments at the workshops, with a few residents expressing
94 very positive comments about them, and others dismissing them completely. The reasons that residents were against having allotments were because there are already disused allotments in Morden, concerns that they could look untidy in the park and worries that sections of the park would therefore become exclusive to allotment holders.
Residents were in agreement that the park needed to be better maintained and that more could be done to improve the space. Most notably, people stated that the derelict buildings should be removed. Other suggestions included shrubs to adorn the Ancient Mound and a fountain in the area close to the Registry Office. However, which would be safer for children. residents noted that changes should seek to preserve or enhance the character and appearance At the workshops, the majority of residents agreed of the park. that natural facilities were preferable to traditional play facilities, especially for older children, but Attendees of the workshops stated that they were many stated that both facilities should be made against Astroturf, a fountain, more car parking, available. However, concerns were raised over park and ride facilities, more lighting and more graffiti-ing on such facilities. roads. The final event revealed that residents saw the playing fields as an appropriate location for RECOMMENDATIONS: sporting and recreational facilities, but that they did not wish to see significant change in the rest • The maintenance of Morden Park’s of the Park. landscape is a big priority. While it is acknowledged that the Playing Fields would Many residents were adamant that there should be the most appropriate location for sports, be no commercial development in the park, with this should not be done to the overall many noting that they were completely against a detriment of nature and wildlife in the park. Goals development. • A well managed and maintained pond, Opinions are divided on the subject of specifically more trees and flowers would be welcomed. designated areas in the park. In the questionnaire, responses showed that by a very small majority 5.4 PLAY people were not in favour of having an area for dog walking, but they were in favour of having an The general consensus was that Morden Park area for outdoor sport, an area for exercise and could have more play facilities for children, and running and a family area. that these facilities should cover all ages of youth. For younger children the consensus seems to be However, at the workshop, the majority of for traditional play facilities such as swings, slides, attendees stated that they would not be in favour sand pits, wooden climbing frames, a paddling of having specifically designated areas in the park, pool and a bouncy castle in the summer months. with many expressing worries that it would appear For older children suggestions included artificial, and others saying that it would be a pity skateboarding, paths for roller bladers, cycling to “carve up the park.” Despite these objections, paths, natural play facilities and BMX and others were in agreement as long as such divisions skate parks. respected the overall landscape of the park, and some saw the benefit of having a family area,
95 A typical response from local parents of teenagers was that that natural play facilities and even traditional play facilities were geared towards younger children leaving little for teenagers and young adults to do, and she speculated this may be contributing to the vandalism and drinking that many respondents raised concerns over.
Overall, play facilities were acknowledged to be important for children and young people and should be included in the park. However, the type of play facilities that should be provided was an issue of conflict as it should appeal to a variety of age groups while taking into account the park’s appearance and those people who use the park Play facilities present a series of advantages and more relaxing activities. The recommendations disadvantages, which were discussed throughout below reflect a need to provide facilities for the consultation. It was acknowledged that they children of all ages. would give children and young people more activities in the park and that this may help cut RECOMMENDATIONS: down on anti social behaviour in the park. Although the advantages were apparent the • More conventional and traditional play disadvantages they presented such as reducing the facilities for young children were the preferred amount of open green space, ongoing option, and provided in areas, which are maintenance and ensuring that they are used secure and fenced off from dogs. appropriately were also raised. • The provision of facilities for older children When youth from the Holiday Club were asked for such as a skateboard park or BMX circuit their opinions on the park comments such as, should be explored. “more facilities for ages 4-13,” “new swings,” “there should be better play areas” were received, • If natural play facilities are to be incorporated however some children also said, “just leave it,” they should make as little visual impact as and “it’s the best park in Merton.” possible on the park’s landscape.
When asked specifically about natural play 5.5 ACCESS AND SECURITY facilities responses were generally favourable, although concerns over maintenance and the ACCESS appropriate appearance of the facilities were also raised. It was felt the simple natural play facilities The public consultation has revealed that the majority of people believe that Morden Park is made of wood and integrated into the existing accessible enough for the elderly, cyclists, landscape would be the most appropriate (see pedestrians, children, and for major events. Early picture). consultation did not provide a clear consensus on the issue of access for people with disabilities. From a safety point of view the two major issues The questionnaire in the final event was therefore for respondents about the natural play facilities constructed in such a way in order to try to were ensuring that they were fenced off from achieve a consensus. The result was that 97% of dogs, as well as designing it so that parents able those who responded agreed that the current to easily keep an eye on their children. paths are unsuitable for disable people.
96 The results of the questionnaire show that only RECOMMENDATIONS: under quarter of people surveyed do not feel restricted from pursuing a certain activity in the • Entrances should be clearly marked and where park because of poor access. Of the activities that artificial entrances have been created over were not carried out because of poor access, the time, these should be either formalised or most common were: walking because of the lack closed up. of signs and footpaths, walking alone, walking with a pushchair and walking with elderly or • Depending on the availability of funding, disabled people. routes for disabled people should be improved with more hard standing surfaces. Many believed that the elderly would have better access to the park if a path were installed around SECURITY the perimeter. Similarly, if a cycle path were built around the park, and the inner fence at Hillcross Throughout the whole consultation process the Avenue taken down residents believe that access majority of residents stated that they felt safe in would be improved for cyclists. the park at all times.
As regards to better access for pedestrians, Those who felt unsafe in the park noted that it residents proposed more ‘all weather’ paths and was when it was dark, around the old changing compacted gravel, better signs and information rooms, near the old sports buildings, around the boards, better upkeep and more seating. Similar car park and when groups of young people suggestions were made to improve access for congregate. people with disabilities. A third of those who responded to the Other issues concerning access that were raised in questionnaire stated that they felt restricted by the workshops were that traffic is dangerous for feeling unsafe. Of the activities that were not young children at the entrance and that access carried out in the park because people felt unsafe, would be improved if internal fences were taken the most common were walking alone and down. As regards to parking, the majority of those walking after dark. In addition, some residents who responded to the questionnaires agreed that stated that they do not allow their children to run there is adequate parking for visitors in Morden free, and that they too not walk in the woods Park. because they feel isolated.
In terms of entry points, the attendees of the The overwhelming majority of suggestions to workshop noted that better pathways, hard improve the security of the park was for a warden surfaced paths and more wood chippings to or a park ranger. This was also supported by 94% prevent the build up of mud could improve the of those who responded to the final event Bow Lane entrance. It was also noted there are a number of unofficial entrances, particularly on the eastern side of the park, that should be equipped with proper gates or closed off permanently. The mapping activity in the questionnaire showed that residents wanted to see more entry points in the park, especially along Hillcross Avenue and at the corner of Lower Morden Lane and Epsom Road. In addition, it was noted that the lower part of the park is often waterlogged in periods of heavy rain and that this presented an issue for access to the park in this area.
97 It seems therefore that whilst most are in agreement that litter and graffiti are serious problems, the problem of anti-social behaviour is predominantly perceived by the older generations.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
• To employ a warden or park ranger to help improve security. It is clear that residents feel that they would benefit immeasurably from such a presence.
5.6 HISTORY AND HERITAGE
It is clear that there is a base knowledge of the history of Morden Park. Most people knew of the questionnaire. It was felt that a warden would Mound, Morden Park House and the Roman Road increase a feeling of safety in the park, as well as that runs under the park, and many felt they help deal with anti-social behaviour, litter and dog would like to see the history and heritage more mess problems. It is clear therefore that the widely displayed around the park. However, from presence of a warden would be the most valuable the fun history quiz it is also apparent that beyond contribution to make people feel safer in the park. the basic knowledge of the park’s history there is Others suggested community police in the park little awareness, and many commented that they who could supervise and control young people should or would like to know more. who intimidate others with anti-social behaviour. In addition, residents suggested taking fencing Local people feel that the history of the park down, removing the old changing room, installing should be given more profile and prominence and better lighting, better paths, cyclist speed limits, be something that local schools could involve emergency phones and CCTV. However, in themselves in. Broadly speaking, the focus of contrast, others stated that better fencing would people’s attentions, as would be expected, was on help them feel safer, especially with young the three most known about features – the children. Mound, Registry Office and the buried Roman Road. Early consultation revealed that many residents felt that open space in the park creates a feeling of Suggestions for the Mound included clearing it safety, and many stated that better lighting also and putting in stairs to get to the top. More improves security. It is clear that open space alone imaginative local history enthusiasts suggested is not enough to make residents feel safe in calling in the “Time Team” to excavate the Mound Morden Park. and reveal its secrets. The majority of those who answered the Similar suggestions were put forward for the questionnaires believed that there are behaviours Roman Road as people also appear keen to and issues that cause problems in the park, indeed discover what is below the surface as, “excavate only less that 10% did not feel that there were and personally display a section of the Roman any such problems. Road,” was a common sentiment from those who responded. There was also a suggestion of The main problems highlighted in both the discovering the exact route of the Road through questionnaires and the workshops were anti-social the park. behaviour from groups of young people, along with litter, dog faeces and graffiti. The younger generation were also in agreement that there are problems of anti-social behaviour in the park, and highlighted litter and graffiti as the main problem.
98 While most people appear to know that the • Building on the point above, more could be Registry Office is a building of historical done to promote Morden Park House as a importance there were few suggestions as to how focal point in the park, perhaps opening up to incorporate it into a wider part of the park’s the gardens to the public or providing heritage. One respondent commented, “the house occasional events for the local community is now in use – but it would be nice to access that did not impact on its commercial viability. parts of it – ‘open days’ perhaps? The gardens could be developed.” The Registry Office is an • Involve local schools and after-school example of success in Morden Park since it has programmes in activities that specifically relate been refurbished and turned into a profitable to the history and heritage of the park. These business within a well-liked building. could be combined with programmes involving nature There were many suggestions throughout the workshop for putting up interpretive nature panels 5.7 EVENTS and even having a centre dedicated for this in the park. Similar ideas were also suggested on The majority of residents felt that the bandstand enhancing people’s awareness of the history of the should be used for music and theatre. The young park, especially for local children and schools. people we spoke to at a Youth Summer Club also stated their interest in seeing live music in the One specific suggestion was to, “provide an park. Although the kinds of music and theatre interpretive panel showing a map of the area as it suggested varied a great deal, from jazz, folk and was in the late 18th century when the area was indie to classical and opera, there was an parkland associated with Morden Park House.” It underlying commitment to the community in that was felt, with both history and nature that by most people proposed that the bandstand should providing people with the context and be used for and by local people, and in particular, understanding would help contribute to the park’s local young people. wellbeing in the future. It was suggested that local youth groups, schools Young people, themselves, made no specific and churches could use the bandstand, while mention of history and heritage. This, perhaps, is others saw it as an opportunity to promote young an indication that there is a lack of awareness talent. Some proposals were more far fetching amongst younger people that could be remedied than others, with a few people suggesting a music by incorporating some of the ideas above. festival of sorts.
Residents were keen to see the bandstand used There were also specific comments directed at for other activities as well as music and theatre. involving local schools by teaching children about Alternative suggestions included family events, the history of Morden Park. There appears to be a general consensus that the history of the park should be on display for those who use it, and for the youth of the Merton area to learn more about their local history.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
• The park could provide a source of information on its history and heritage – this could be achieved by displaying information boards in prominent locations around the park (especially entrances), or by utilising Morden Park House as a centre for local history.
99 holiday camps, charity auctions, car boot sales and of the park would be disturbed. Another key outdoor seating for a café. At the workshops, it concern for such events would be that the ticket was suggested that the park could hold prices remain affordable for the whole community. commercial events such as wedding shows, garden equipment shows and country shows. It Residents underlined the importance of having the was noted that the profit raised from such events bandstand as a community hub, accessible and could be put towards the upkeep of the park. affordable to all. Residents were also keen to see Those who responded to the questionnaire at the the profits of such events going towards the final event also supported this idea. upkeep of the park. It was also noted in the workshops that it would be very important for Others suggested that Morden Park would be an litter to be cleared up after such events. In ideal place for sporting events to be held. This addition, concerns were raised over increased idea was proposed a few times at the workshops, levels of traffic and parking. but residents were quick to underline the fact that they did not want to see commercial investment There is also a risk that large events could affect and that it was important that such events would the landscape of the park, in particular the grass. be community based. Other proposals included This was noted by residents in the workshop, and exercise classes and keep fit events that would would therefore be a condition to larger events. benefit the whole community. Finally, residents noted that it was important for In addition to sport and music events, some events to be properly policed so that the closure residents thought that the park should host nature times are adhered to and that people do not race and heritage events including nature walks and their cars and burn their barbeques into the grass. lectures held in Morden Park House. It is clear that residents feel that it is important to celebrate RECOMMENDATIONS: the diverse wildlife and heritage of the park. • The bandstand should be utilised more, As noted, it was felt by many people that park particularly for music and theatre events and events should be aimed towards children and local groups should be given priority in using young people, and indeed, certain people this facility. suggested that the park be used for school events, treasure hunts for children and youth events. • Profits from park events should be put Other residents wanted to encourage more local towards the upkeep and maintenance and events, such as fun fairs on bank holidays. could provide a vital stream of income.
Many residents felt that Morden Park was the • Ticket prices should be affordable for the local perfect place to hold large events, thanks to the community and noise levels carefully size of the park and good transport links. monitored to ensure minimum impact on However, the feedback on the bandstand surrounding residential areas. uncovered some concerns, most notably noise levels and that the peace 5.8 YOUNG PEOPLE
Encouraging youth participation in the consultation was an important aspect of putting together a holistic vision for Morden Park. To do so Dialogue staff went to three local primary schools, holiday clubs, addressed the Merton Youth Parliament, spoke with the leader of the scouts group, representatives from the Merton Football Club and received feedback from a few young people who attended the workshops and filled in the questionnaire.
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