Durham County Council is planning to demolish the historic bowling green in Elvet, Durham City, a beautiful green space that has been lovingly restored over the last eight years by a dedicated team of volunteers and residents, to install an estimated £250,000 worth of unwanted outdoor gym equipment.

What was once a disused, abandoned eyesore has been radically transformed into a thriving community garden, wildlife refuge, multifunctional communal green space, and public park by the team at Hemp Garden Community Association CIC.

Over the years, the park has become a powerful symbol of community cohesion and civic pride, enjoyed by young families, disabled and neurodiverse residents, dog walkers, students, tourists, community groups, live-action role players, yoga classes, and many other diverse groups and individuals. 

The Council's proposed destruction of the bowling green and park to install outdoor gym equipment is strongly opposed by residents and the local community, yet the council will not listen to the many genuine concerns and objections of the public. 

Consequently, we are calling for: 

1. An immediate halt to any plans to destroy the green and install outdoor gym equipment in Elvet.
2. A full investigation into the legitimacy and lack of transparency of the planning and 'public consultation' process. 
3. A guarantee to protect the bowling green, community garden and public park.
4. The council is to work with, not against, the local community, residents, and other relevant stakeholders.
5. The reinstating of the historic covenant to protect the grounds for public recreational use in perpetuity.

This is about far more than outdoor gym equipment. It's about protecting the right of the public to shape the future of their communal spaces, respecting the wishes of local communities, and resisting top-down decisions that do not reflect the needs or wants of residents. 

Help save this unique volunteer-led community asset, protect our ever-dwindling public green spaces, and stop the needless destruction of a thriving community garden and beloved park. 

Sign the petition now and make your voice heard!

Thank You!

HGCA