Friends of Oaklands Park (FoOP) was formed to promote and preserve Oaklands Park and support its use for all users, of all ages. We do not want to take this green space for granted, and wish to improve its accessibility, and enhance its spaces.
There is far more on site than most park-users realise!
So far, we have helped water and keep alive tree saplings suffering during the drought, hosted a fascinating presentation on the history of the park by local historian Andrew Berryman, and a Walk and Talk about the Park Trees and another about its herbs and wildflowers.
Our events are deliberately low key and accessible, and our members have many interests, such as reducing light pollution; enhancing flora and fauna diversity, increasing fragrance and colour, all the while ensuring the Park remains free and fun for all. Some wish to improve access for wheelchair users, others to raise the height of the benches so they are more user-friendly for older people.
As the group continues to grow, we hope to intrigue visitors with informative signage and keep folk informed via a website for those not on social media, as well as a Facebook Group.
We seek to encourage people to use this lovely dog-friendly open space and act as a voice for the many users / friends of the park amongst themselves and with the owners, Chichester District Council.
Oaklands Park is very popular, not only for walking, general enjoyment of lovely green space, and picnics - but also for Rugby, Football, Archery, Softball, Keep Fit, Park Runs, Yoga. Transition Chichester manages a Community Orchard and Garden here. As well as having Football, Racquets and Rugby Clubs and the Festival Theatre within the Park boundaries.
Join us and have your say.
— FoOP secretary 2023