Leavesden Country Park shortlisted for national award

Leavesden Country Park has been shortlisted for the prestigious Local Government Chronicle Awards 2020. The park, which is owned and run by Three Rivers District Council, was officially opened in July this year, after a £1 million programme of heritage, environment, arts and community facilities, funded by the Council, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden.

The LGC awards are the biggest celebration of excellence in local government and celebrate the teams and individuals making the greatest difference to their communities. The Leavesden County Park National Lottery Heritage project has been shortlisted under the Community Involvement category. This year has seen  a record number of entries to the awards and so to be shortlisted is an outstanding achievement by Three Rivers.

The awards recognise the  innovative nature of the project, which had extensive community involvement. This resulted in a much-used Heritage Trail with interpretation boards, the Leavesden HIVE, a heritage and environment education centre, extensive restoration works, the presence of a full time Park Ranger and the many park activities.

Following the shortlisting announcement, council officers will make a further presentation to a panel of judges to demonstrate the impact, value and community involvement in the park. The results will be announced in March 2020.

Of importance in this accolade is the Council’s relationship with local people and local communities to deliver the invigorated park. Community involvement and engagement is increasingly important as a way of shaping Council thinking and service, and throughout this project the hopes and aspirations of the community were embraced. This award is intended to showcase the whole range of public involvement including community consultation, artist’s workshops, Steering Group contribution, the development of the interpretation boards, the growth of the ‘Friends’ group, the inclusion of local history groups, and the significant community feedback.

Councillor Sara Bedford, Leader of Three Rivers District Council, commented: "‘I am thrilled that the innovation and hard work of Three Rivers and the huge contribution of the local community has been recognised nationally. This  is an important award to be shortlisted for and demonstrates that Three Rivers District Council has listened to the community and delivered an outstanding project."

Councillor Chris Lloyd, Lead Member for Leisure, said: “I am delighted and proud that we have delivered this project with, and for the community. I would like to thank all our partners.”