About Friends of Sandy Lane Park
We aim to make a brighter space for everyone in our community.
What we’ve achieved so far
And we’re only just getting started…
Our wonderful community volunteers have already made a fabulous start on clearing steps and pathways, blub planting and more. We’re also proud to support the installations of a new contactless bird feeder and defibrillator at Sandy Lane Garage.
Our committee is delighted to have recently secured a grant from Severn Trent which will provide a fantastic boost to kick-start some of the ambitious plans outlined below.
Our plans
Renovate the Sandy Lane Park Steps
The steps by Sandy Lane Ferry have the potential to be a stunning riverside spot, but they are currently in a state of disrepair. Recently, our dedicated team of volunteers worked hard to clear the weeds, preparing the area for repointing and levelling. We are thrilled to have commissioned local artist Nikki Pinder to create a colourful mural to decorate the steps. The artwork will celebrate the natural beauty of the local area. This exciting addition will transform the Sandy Lane Park steps into a vibrant focal point where people can gather and enjoy the picturesque views.
Design & Install Interpretation Signage
We are working with Cheshire West & Chester Council to produce interpretation signage similar to that at Jubillee Park. Interpretation signage is a type of informational display designed to help visitors understand and appreciate a particular site, feature, or area. It goes beyond simply presenting facts by offering engaging explanations, stories, and context related to the natural, historical, cultural, or environmental significance of a place. Its goal is to provide a deeper, more enriching experience for visitors.
Build a Tool Storage Shed
We intend to install on-site storage facilities to securely house tools and equipment used by our dedicated team of volunteers. This will make it much easier to maintain and enhance the park efficiently, as everything needed will be readily accessible. To support this initiative, we are reaching out to the community for assistance. If you have any unused tools, gardening supplies, or equipment that you no longer need and would be willing to donate, we would greatly appreciate your generosity. Every contribution helps us keep the park beautiful and well-cared-for. Please get in touch with us if you would like to make a donation.
Create a dedicated picnic area
Under the shade of the large, mature tree located on the Sandy Lane Park field, we plan to establish a dedicated picnic area where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Resurface the Riverside Path
The riverside path is currently pot-holed and damaged. Our plan is to carry out a complete resurfacing of the entire path, ensuring a smooth and even surface that will greatly improve accessibility and safety for all users. Once the resurfacing is complete, we will enhance the space further by adding a series of floor-painted games.
Introduce a beautiful, nature-friendly planting scheme
One of our key strategies for enhancing Sandy Lane Park is through thoughtful, continuous planting and careful maintenance. This will be achieved through regular monthly events and our collaborative “Adopt a Plot” scheme, involving Boughton Heath Academy, Cherry Grove Primary School, The Bishops' Blue Coat Church of England High School, and other valued community groups. By working together, we aim to create vibrant, beautifully maintained green spaces that everyone can enjoy. Stay tuned for more details and opportunities to get involved – exciting updates are coming soon!
To achieve all this, and more, we need your help.
Get Involved ⟶
About Sandy Lane Park
Sandy Lane Park is situated upon the banks of the River Dee, approximately 2.5 miles east of Chester city centre and includes Sandy Lane Aqua Park and the adjacent play area which looks across the River Dee to the Meadows. The park has beautiful views of the local area, which provides a stimulating play environment and the Aqua Park/Water Park includes a 10 feature spray facility close to a grassed picnic area.
The area has been neglected in recent years and is need of regeneration. That’s where we come in!
