Council hopes for top award for Doncaster park after £750,000 investment in renovation

Work is now complete on a variety of projects across Elmfield Park following an injection of £750,000 ahead of its centenary year.

The park’s rose garden has been resurfaced to enhance accessibility around the garden, including new paving around the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry statue, to match the style of the recently renovated Cenotaph memorial.

A number of new rose beds have been planted and ornate columns introduced to add height and support new varieties of roses across the garden.

A new pathway has been introduced around the park as well as new trees, wildflower areas and lots of additional bulb planting.

There are new benches, new bins and the entrances to the park have also been improved making it more accessible for users.

Following the introduction of a new play facility and outdoor fitness equipment, residents will now benefit from newly resurfaced tennis courts.

The council hopes the park will be awarded Green Flag status which is given to parks of a certain standard.

In 2019, the park secured around £300,000 of Section 106 funds following the approval of a nearby development and in 2020, Doncaster Council used £450,000 from the Accelerated Town Fund from a pot of Government funding.

Trevor Mountford, Treasurer of the Friends of Elmfield Park, said: “The works were much needed and have changed the nature of the park. It used to be a litter-strewn place that looked neglected and suffered from a bad reputation.

“Now with the new playground, the improved entrances and particularly the works around the rose garden it feels like a pleasurable place to be.

“I’ve already noticed more people making use of the new seating in the rose garden; the restored, widened paths make it feel much safer.”

Doncaster mayor Ros Jones said: “Elmfield Park is looking fantastic. We have transformed the look and feel of the park to provide a first class experience for residents.

“With Elmfield Park being close to Doncaster town centre, people from across the borough can pop down to get back to nature, explore the wonderful planting and features or simply enjoy some leisure time with friends and family.”

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