Source: City of Portsmouth
This week, local Councillors and staff from South Western Railway recognised the success and use of the newly opened ‘pocket park’ in Fratton that provides a safe route for individuals on their journey to and from the train station.
Portsmouth City Council was granted funding from the South Western Railway Customer and Communities Improvement Fund to make improvements to the space between Fawcett Road and Goldsmith Avenue.
The park boasts new benches with under seat lighting, bedding plants, and festoon lighting in the trees, whilst offering a safe route through to the train station. Pavement artwork has also been created in the space by local artist, Donna Poingdestre, following a collaborative effort by Portsmouth Creates, MOTIV8, and Articulate-Sage.
The opening ceremony dedicated the ‘pocket park’ to Charles Burns, who played an active role in the Portsmouth Community for many years. Charles supported a number of initiatives to bring together community and culture to make Portsmouth a better place for all. A plaque has been placed in memory of Charles Burns, by the seating area.
Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: “We are really pleased to have marked the opening of the Fratton ‘pocket park’ this week. It is a positive step forward in our efforts to create a greener and safer city to work and live in.
“It was great to see so many people attend the event which is a true reflection of the importance of these initiatives in our city, and we’re continuing to see an increasing number of people taking advantage of this space.”
Peter Williams, South Western Railway’s Customer and Commercial Director, said: “It’s great to see that Fratton Pocket Park, which we were delighted to support through SWR’s Customer and Communities Improvement Fund, is now completed. We’re sure that the local community will greatly enjoy the benefits of this bright, new public space near Fratton Station”
You can find out more about the South Western Rail Customer and Communities Improvement Fund here: Customer and Communities Improvement Fund 2022 | South Western Railway
