The scheme has been specifically designed to support sites in Newark and Sherwood that are not owned by the District Council, enabling Town and Parishes to invest in safe, accessible and high-quality play opportunities. 

Grants of up to £10,000 are available, with the requirement that applicants provide match funding equal to at least 50% of the total project costs - meaning some parks could see improvements of up to £20,000! 

This initiative aims to ensure that communities can enhance their play areas by working in partnership and pooling resources. 

Councillor Simon Forde, Portfolio Holder for Climate and the Environment at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “I encourage any Parish or Town Council with a park or open space within the district to apply for the scheme as this is an amazing opportunity to help improve parks across Newark and Sherwood. 

“Residents have told us may times through feedback and surveys that parks and open spaces are important to them. Through this scheme, we’re making sure everyone across the district has the opportunity to see improvements to their local park, no matter where they live.” 

Town Councils, Parish Councils or Parish Meetings can each submit one bid and more information on how to apply can be found here: www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/parksandopenspacesplan/  

All applications must be submitted by Friday 31 July 2026. Final decisions will be communicated in November 2026. 

For further information, please contact Parks Development at: Parks.Development@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk . 

This work forms one of three initiatives outlined in the District Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Development Plan.  

The Town and Parish Parks Legacy Fund is running alongside other Council plans which could see significant improvements totalling more than £500,000 in parks and open spaces.  

Plans could see a new modern Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) installed at Cherry Holt Play Park in Hawtonville, while a ‘pump-track’ for BMX’s and scooters could also be installed on Turner Lane in Boughton. 

Before a final decision on those schemes in the Autumn, the District Council is asking for residents to feedback on designs. Artist impressions showing what aspects of the parks could look like are available. You can share your views online here: www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/parksandopenspacessurvey 

The deadline to provide feedback is Sunday 19 April 2026.

Councillor Simon Forde, continues: “I’m incredibly proud to see these initiatives underway and it demonstrates our commitment to not only protecting parks and green spaces but improving them for future generations to enjoy.” 

Once these plans are delivered, more than £1.5 million will have been invested in parks since 2023 by the District Council, which includes £350,000 in 2023 across ten sites and a further £500,000 for the redevelopment of Sherwood Avenue Park, which recently regained its Green Flag status.