‘Love Parks Week’ took place last week but one councillor is ‘horrified’ about the state of one park in Oxfordshire.

Banbury Town Council celebrated ‘Love Parks Week’ by encouraging people to use their local parks and open spaces, however one recreation ground on Hart Close in Hanwell Fields has not been well maintained.

The space has a piece of play equipment missing, no sign above its front gates and is overgrown with weeds and grass.

Across the front gate a branch of thorny vines has grown, which could be dangerous for families with children.

Councillor Andrew Crichton said: “I was horrified to discover how run down this local recreation ground has become after nearly two decades of Conservative rule locally.

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“Whereas other recreation grounds in this area seem reasonably well maintained, this one has been left to rack and ruin.

“Actions speak louder than words. Instead of just paying lip service to the idea of ‘Love Parks Week’, our Tory-run town council should be making every effort to maintain our parks to a decent standard.

“I have reported this issue to the town council now and hope for a speedy response to bring this recreation ground up to a standard that is safe for local families.”

Love Parks Week took place from 29 July to 5 August this year; the celebration aims to encourage an appreciation of green spaces.

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1

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