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Update from Clare Parish Council on Clare Castle Country Park

As we move into 2012, we know that one of the major events of the year will be the final settlement of what happens in the Country Park.  It is 40 years since this very special town amenity was established and it has been, and continues to be, a highly important part of our community - exemplifying much of our history and the beauty of our natural surroundings.  

The Town Council feels strongly that the Country Park should be maintained as a key part of life in Clare. We know that it has been the focus of many community events in the past e.g. hosting theatre, music events, fairs and celebrations, and Councillors are keen for it to once more become a central vehicle for strengthening our community and attracting visitors. The divestment of the Country Park by Suffolk County Council (SCC) has the potential to create many exciting opportunities for Clare. However, we are mindful that it also brings huge financial responsibilities which must be correctly managed so that the future is truly positive.  

Discussions between SCC, St Edmundsbury, Clare Town Council and interested groups have been taking place during most of 2011.  Progress has not been as fast as we would have liked but we are pleased to announce that, in early February, it is planned that the options for the future running of the Country Park will be put forward for consultation to the Clare community and the surrounding villages.  We have agreed with SCC that no decisions will be made on the future of the Country Park prior to consultation or without the support of the Town Council and wider community. The main options are likely to centre around:  

-      A proposal that St Edmundsbury will manage the green areas of the Park while SCC continues to identify uses for the station master's house and the Visitor Centre.  These uses could include the Clare library and other activities including commercial options.

  -    The Town Council would be very happy to work with St Edmundsbury to agree how the green areas of the park can be best managed as they have significant expertise in managing parks to a high standard.  However we would prefer that the station master's house and the Visitor Centre be retained for community use for the benefit of community groups that require a more permanent base than can be provided elsewhere.   We could envisage the two parts of the Visitor Centre being turned into one larger space for more flexible use.  For example, the Clare Amateur Dramatic Society (CADS) has made use of this space and strong interest has been received from the "Budding Artists" group, the Scouts and Cubs leader and a group of youths who want to re-establish the Youth Club.  We would hope that the Library could also be accommodated and further ideas from other community groups would be very welcome. Additionally, we hope that there would be many events within the Park for our community and visitors to enjoy.

  -     A third option has been raised by the recently formed Friends of Clare Country Park - that of creating a charitable trust which would take over the ownership and running of the Country Park in its entirety.  As it currently stands this option would not involve either SCC, St Edmundsbury or the Town Council.   We hope therefore that further details of this option and its under-pinning financial plan will become available in time for the consultation.   

In conclusion, we would like to assure all Townioners of our commitment to Clare Country Park, and we will continue to work in the best interests of our Townioners and the wider community.  Like you, we wish to see all Townioners, community groups and many visitors using a vibrant and successful Clare Country Park for many years to come.  

With best wishes for a very Happy New Year.      

Clare Town Council

Date : 21-12-2011

   
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