Druitt Gardens re-opening marked with Family Bike Ride

The Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr Peter Hall has performed a 're-opening' ceremony in Druitt Gardens in Christchurch to celebrate work which has been undertaken over the past few months to open them up.

The improvement plan for the Gardens has seen the removal of non-native and poor quality trees which has opened up the gardens allowing more light into the site. A large number of young native species of trees and ground cover shrubs have been planted which will be enhanced by bulb planting in the autumn. Several sculptures have been introduced making use of some of the interesting tree stumps on site.  New lighting has been installed and seating and the provision of bins and signage will follow soon.

On performing the re-opening ceremony the Mayor said: "I'm delighted to unveil the revamped Druitt Gardens which now provides a much more open and pleasant environment for all to enjoy."

The event was followed by a Family Bike Ride starting at Druitt Gardens.

The plan for the Gardens has also included the construction of new pedestrian and cycle shared surface paths, a new Toucan crossing in Sopers Lane and further cycle lane works through Barrack Road Recreation Ground and along Barrack Road itself to its junction with Stour Road junction.

These works have been jointly funded by Dorset County Council, Christchurch Borough Council and Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity supporting the Links for Schools and Communities scheme.

Cllr Peter Finney, cabinet member for highways and transportation at Dorset County Council, said: "This is a very good example of co-operation between Christchurch Council, the County Council and Sustrans to provide an important link in the National Cycle Network, one of many schemes which the County Council and Sustrans are providing for local people."

Kevin Humphreys, Dorset Area Manager for Sustrans, added: "Walking and cycling for everyday journeys is great for our health, the environment and it's fun too.  Sustrans is delighted to be able provide funding to support the local community in its wish to create this important off-road route to The Priory School and to the High Street."

The Family Bike Ride went from Druitt Gardens to Mudeford Quay and back to Christchurch Quay where Christchurch's first Sustainable Transport Fayre was held.

Seventy six people took part in the bike ride which received the largest number of children (18) under 16 years of age since its inception in 2008. Olivia ****well, Rachel Smith, Sophie Day, Archie Hoggan and Kimberley Young received prizes for their participation from Harbour Hotels, Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre, Kids and Family Bikes, Dorset County Council and Sustrans.