VICTORIA PARK COMMUNITY CAFÉ DEVELOPMENT UPDATE

Newbury Town Council is pleased to share an update on the new café development at Victoria Park while also addressing a recent incident that has affected a cherished part of the Park play equipment.

We are pleased to announce that planning permission has officially been granted by West Berkshire Council for the new community café refurbishment at Victoria Park.  This much-anticipated project promises to offer a welcoming space for park visitors, families, and local residents to relax and enjoy refreshments in the heart of our green space.

Cllr Roger Hunneman, Chair of the Town Council’s Victoria Park Sub-Committee said, “The project will move to the next stage on 29 April 2025, when we open the tender process to construction companies. We are particularly eager to hear from local developers, as we aim to support the local economy while delivering a space built with community values in mind.  We are aiming for the café build to be completed before the end of the year, in time for residents and visitors to enjoy it during the festive season”.

In contrast to this positive development, we regret to report that a Park favourite with visitors, the ‘Mega Tower’, was vandalised over the recent bank holiday weekend.

James Heasman, the Town Council’s Parks & Open Spaces Supervisor said, “This act of criminal damage has been reported to the police, and we are currently working with them to investigate the matter. Sadly, due to the extent of the damage, the Mega Tower has had to be closed for the foreseeable future to ensure the safety of all park users.                               

He continued, “We understand how much the community values this play equipment, and we are very disappointed that we have no choice but to close it. If you have any information that could assist with the investigation, please contact the police at https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ or by calling 101 quoting Crime Reference Number: INC-20250423-1437 

You can also contact Crime Stoppers https://crimestoppers-uk.org/ anonymously or by calling on 0800 555111”.

 

Contact:

Toby Miles-Mallowan, NTC CEO toby.miles-mallowan@newbury.gov.uk 01635 35486

James Heasman, NTC Parks & Open Spaces Supervisor james.heaseman@newbury.gov.uk 07775 434475

Cllr Roger Hunneman, Chair Victoria Park Sub-Committee roger.hunneman@newbury.gov.uk  07818 422285