Radlett residents get involved with shelter project

Residents in Radlett had their say about a new community project to create a shelter in Phillimore Recreation Ground at a special event on Sunday, 14 June.

Two young children drawing	Youth sharing ideas through art

Local people were invited to share their thoughts, knowledge and ideas at a community fun day which focused on consulting young people on what they want in their area.

More than 50 people got involved and their input will help shape what the shelter will look like.  Hertsmere Borough Council is working with environment organisation Green Heart Partnership and design consultancy Superblue to establish an innovative, eye-catching, sculptural structure at the park, as well as at The Moatfield in Bushey and Furzefield in Potters Bar.

On the day, Superblue used three temporary huts to encourage people to explore what the term 'shelter' meant to them, to think about the kinds of materials, textures and colours that would best suit the environment and to talk about the kinds of ways in which they might use the shelter – for resting, sitting, meeting friends, eating, talking or just to watch the world go by.  Ideas were captured and will be taken on board when the shelter is designed so it is what people want and fits in well with the surroundings.

Councillor Brenda Batten, Portfolio Holder for leisure, culture and health, said: "The vision is to create a small sheltered meeting space for the whole community to make use of and enjoy.

"The event at Phillimore Recreation Ground was a real success with lots of local people getting involved.

"The temporary structures are a great way for residents to start thinking about what kind of shelter they want and we had some great feedback.  Young people especially seemed to enjoy writing and drawing on them.

"We appreciate that some people have concerns about the shelters and that is why we are holding the consultation events so people can have their say.  We value everyone’s feedback so would encourage people to come along to the events and get involved."

Two similar events will now be held for the other two sites:
The Moatfield, Bushey – Tuesday 28 July, 11am to 2pm Furzefield, Potters Bar – Wednesday 29 July, 11am to 4pm

The events are aimed at people of all ages including park users, local residents, sports groups, local schools and community groups.

The project is being funded by the Big Lottery and all three shelters will be installed by January 2010.