We accomplished the amazing feat of transforming 3 dowdy rose beds, about to be grassed over, into well stocked shrub beds of sustainable all year round colour. The coldest start to year hampered our first attempts to plant up but in contrast, the warmest end to year allowed us to bask in sunshine whilst we added winter pansies and spring bulbs. We had fun at our own events and joining in other groups’ activities and conferences, as well as exploring the rich history of Kings Norton.
But I would say that 2011, has really been the year of the Consultation… we have had fascinating conversations with hundreds of you, at the Farmers Market, Kings Norton Festival, in our park and other green spaces, planting trees on the nature reserve, at The Fields Millennium Trust magical event and the Fold Christmas fete. We also undertook a programme of visits to local community groups, nursery, infant and junior schools.
Like all good tours, we have to thank those involved so... lets say thanks to everyone who has contributed in anyway and their own way. You may have talked about us, shown us opportunities, provided an encouraging word, visited us for a quick chat at one of our community stalls, joined our email list or got your hands dirty… whatever it was, thank you!
Special thanks Sue Amey, Northfield and Constituency Parks Manager and Steve and Adam our Lickey Hub Rangers, who have each gone out of their way to steer us in the right direction and take part in our activities. Especially, in these very difficult economic times, when council jobs are being lost, workloads are increasing and pay is reducing, it would have been so easy for them to have become despondent.
Also thank you to PCSO, Andy Ryan who is committed to working closely in our community and Sarah Royal from BOSFA for some wonderful training.
Without you talking to us, we would be merely guessing how our community feels and wants. We would much rather find out and try to get some of your ideas incorporated in any improvement plans. We will do our best but have learnt that our aspirations need to be matched with what we can realistically be achieved at any one time, and that that it is highly dependent on what funding and support is available!
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