Friends of Sandall Park

The Friends of Sandall Park are a group of like-minded people who are dedicated to the improvement of the park for the benefit of its human visitors, birds, and resident wildlife.

The group is primarily made up of volunteers (professionals; skilled workers – working and retired; local people) who work alongside professionals from various agencies, committed to regenerating the park. They are enthusiastic, forward thinking and will continue to develop the park in a way that reflects what the visitors want.

We are committed to improving the park for the benefit of its less abled visitors, and accessibility is key to every project that is undertaken. Wheelchair accessible picnic benches; inclusive play and fitness equipment; car parking spaces; sensory trails; revamped existing toilet for the disabled – have all been developed by the group. A Paws Park with disabled access is also planned. The Changing Place, the current campaign, will be the crowning glory for the park.

Over the last four years we have developed a Junior Ranger scheme which encourages youngsters into volunteering for, and looking after, their park. The scheme is a huge success and boasts in excess of 40 youngsters currently engaging with the volunteers and the council. As it has grown and the workload had become too much, the council Safer Communities Team now take the lead on the Rangers.

The FoSP were the first (in 2010) voluntary group in Doncaster to receive the Queens Award for Voluntary Service (the MBE for voluntary groups).

The group continues to develop, grow and introduce new members and initiatives to ensure the park develops and grows for future generations to enjoy. The five year Business Plan which ties in to the joint Management Plan with the council reflects this ongoing commitment ensure the longevity of the 69 acre urban oasis.

Just look around the park and you will see a variety of changes brought about by our group. Walk and jog on the fitness trails, stroll around the nature trails or relax and have a picnic in the picnic area while studying the wildlife information boards. You may just wish to walk around the lake and rest on any of the numerous new benches.

Sandall Park is an important and unique resource for the people of Doncaster as a whole, and the local community in particular. Enjoy the facilities and please consider becoming a ‘Friend’.

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