Recently, I had the huge pleasure of joining Steve Sawyer and colleagues from the Manor Royal Improvement Business District (BID) for the opening of two significant public realm projects that further enhance Manor Royal: the Woolborough Lane Linear Park and the latest phase of improvements at Crawter’s Brook People’s Park.
Already one of Manor Royal’s most popular and valued green spaces, Crawter’s Brook has been awarded a prestigious Green Flag and is a wonderful “green lung” in the middle of the business estate.
The latest phase introduces the Lost Woodland Gallery, a new public art initiative designed to complement the park’s existing character while encouraging more people to explore and enjoy the space, with three sculptures by artist Andrew McKeown.
These are really beautiful sculptures and for those interested, these comprise “The Green Lung”, combining the form of a human lung with tree roots, branches and trunks to highlight the vital relationship between people and the natural environment, “Propelling Nature”, blending the shape of an early aircraft propeller with a sycamore seed to connect the district’s industrial history with the ecological importance of Crawter’s Brook – and “Crawter’s Molecules”, a sculpture that references the many science and technology businesses based within Manor Royal, taking the form of a molecular structure that symbolises innovation, experimentation and discovery.
Crawter’s Brook is a really lovely and peaceful part of Manor Royal – you could take the family for a picnic and it is well worth a visit for any art lovers to take a stroll and sit and enjoy the surroundings!
Then it was off to the new Woolborough Lane Linear Park. Woolborough Lane serves as an important walking and cycling route through Manor Royal. Improvements include public artwork, benches, tables, seating walls and landscaped grass banks, alongside extensive planting of grassland, shrubs, hedgerows and trees to boost biodiversity and create a more attractive environment.
A series of new spaces has been created for employees and visitors to meet, relax and socialise, including dedicated seating areas and recreational features such as outdoor table tennis facilities. I enjoyed a quick game!
The transformation of these spaces demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnership working with the local councils and a shared commitment to improving the environment for our communities. It was an absolute joy to see these in place, helping enhance the quality of life for those who are local and those who contribute to the growth of our economy. The Manor Royal BID has helped transform the business park over its time in existence, a real example of what can be achieved through a levy and a positive vision for our area.
Cllr Michael Jones
Leader, Crawley Borough Council