Hardie Park has been recognised as a successful park that demonstrates excellent potential for changing the way that a public space is used and managed. Rob Groves is leading the Performing Parks project in Thurrock and is working with five other parks that have the potential to create a similar model in their area. A package of learning and support will be created over a two year period in order to spread the approach and empower local communities with the management skills to ensure sustainablility. This is an innovative project, part of NESTA’s national ‘Rethinking Parks’ Programme funded by The Big Lottery Fund and Heritage Lottery Fund.

Exciting times ahead for Thurrock communities. The park projects we are working with are Bonnygate in South Ockendon, Aveley Rec, Daisy Fields in Tilbury, Gobions in East Tilbury and Grays Beach. If these are areas close to you and you would like to get involved with the project then please contact Rob Groves on 07803 295374.

Rob Groves pictured with Chris Norris and Tiffany Gregor from NESTA

Contact details: Hardie Park Cafe, Hardie Road, Stanford-le-Hope, Essex. SS17 0PB Phone: Rob Groves: 07803 295374 Email: info@friendsofhardiepark.co.uk Twitter: www.twitter.com/LoveHardiePark Facebook: www.facebook.com/LoveHardiePark