Who are the Friends of St Andrew’s Park?
The Friends of St Andrew’s Park [ FoSAP] is a group of people who love our beautiful Park and want to actively contribute to its protection, enhancement, and greater biodiversity. Although it has a formal Constitution [which is very helpful in bidding for grants !], a Committee, and four official posts of Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and Membership Secretary [which are elected annually], it is a relaxed, friendly group, and new, active members are always welcome.
Working with the city council.
Established around 20 years ago, FoSAP has developed a close working relationship with the city council and local people. We are very fortunate to have a regular park keeper, Mickey, who does a brilliant job on the many aspects of day-to-day management that are required in one of Bristol’s most popular and intensively used parks.
Where does the money come from for Park projects?
Local authorities across the country have had ever-diminishing funds for a considerable time now, and Bristol is no exception. This has inhibited the city council’s investment in its Parks , especially new projects and major improvements. However, during this difficult time, FoSAP has been able to identify and successfully bid for funds from many different sources, including:
Heritage Lottery;
Landfill Trusts;
Police Commissionaire;
Individual and group Donations;
Crowdfunding;
Community Infrastructure Levy and specific council grants;
Recent Projects.
FoSAP projects include:
Development and maintenance of the Pond and Wildlife area;
Signing and Information Boards;
Major Play Area improvements;
Creation of the Meadow Area;
Toilet block mural;
Tree Carvings;
Tree Guide/ Walk;
Promoting better recycling by Park users.
Other schemes initiated by local people and actively supported by FoSAP include:
Development and maintenance of several perennial flower beds;
Development of a small Community Food Garden;
Occasional Park performances.
Volunteering.
Some of the above schemes are very dependent on ongoing maintenance work by volunteers, either on a regular or seasonal basis. These activities are very enjoyable and rewarding and contribute greatly to the Park. There will be postings on the website re work dates.
Get involved with FoSAP.
FoSAP formally meets six times a year, usually of an evening in the Derby Rd Bowling Club which has a bar and relaxed atmosphere. Everyone is welcome to join us if you wish to get actively involved in FoSAP’s important and enjoyable work to protect and enhance our beautiful Park.
Steve Perry [ Chair]; August 2022.