Outdoor gym, nature trails and swimming pool among ideas as Nunthorpe residents have say on open space

Residents in Nunthorpe have been getting their thinking caps on for how they would like a new area of open space used.

An outdoor gym, nature trails and even a swimming pool are some of the ideas which have so far been put forward for three hectares of land set to be developed as a public open space south of Guisborough Road.

“We want to hear residents views about that they would like to see on this open land which will be provided,” said Charlton Gibben, senior planning policy officer at Middlesbrough Council.

“We want people to suggest whatever they want to see on that site - ideally suggestions that would suit both the older and younger generations.

“After the consultation has finished at the end of the month, we will then be starting the masterplan and the suggestions people have put forward will then be assessed.

“They will then go to a steering group made up of parish councillors, community councillors, councillors and local residents.”

From left: Charlie Rooney, executive member regeneration, June Bonnington, community council executive, Alan Bonnington (back) Lesley McGloin, chair of community council, David Leyland, parish councillor, Dave Budd, deputy mayor and Cllr Brenda Thompson on the proposed site

The outdoor amenity, equipment and facilities will be funded through money from the nearby Grey Towers Village housing development.

The initial plans that have been drawn out show the open space will be two patches of land either side of Marton and Nunthorpe Recreation Club.

The land surrounding them has been set aside for 250 homes in Middlesbrough Council’s ‘Local Plan’.

But local resident, Alan Bonnington, who has lived in Nunthorpe for 40 years, said the council should consider having one larger space of open space instead to two smaller patches.

“I am very happy we are going to get an area of open space but I would like to see it as one patch of land,” he said.

“Having just the one area would be a lot better for many reasons such as safety and to lessen any conflict which would arise for two patches apart.”

Lesley McGlorn, another local resident, also agreed there should be one larger area rather than two smaller open sites.

She said: “Everything has been taken away from us here in Nunthorpe - we have nothing, so I am pleased as this is something to give back to the residents although I do think the council should consider one patch of land as it makes more sense.

“All we have is that open area with the spectacular views of Roseberry Topping and that is what we are fighting for.”

Brenda Thompson, Independent ward councillor for Nunthorpe, said: “I think this is brilliant that this has been set aside for Nunthorpe.

“An area of open space is something we are lacking here so this will address the problem.”

The final drop-in session for local residents to have their say is being held next Tuesday, February 24, from 10am until 12.30pm at Nunthorpe Methodist Church.