02/06/2026
So glad to be a part of this too
Firstly, some good news to share from the Uredale Community Partnership's Youth & Community Cohesion Working Group.
Over the past year, the group, working alongside Ripon YMCA, Harrogate & District Community Action Power of 10, North Yorkshire Youth, the Ripon Youth Council, local schools, Ripon City Council ward councillors and many other partners, has been listening to young people about the spaces they want to see improved.
That work is now starting to show on the ground.
Recent progress across Ripon's parks includes:
🛹 Skate Park - basketball nets replaced, Heras fencing removed, and a sweeping brush provided so young people can keep the surface clear. The graffiti wall is being prepped for new artwork, and Ripon Leisure Centre is now welcoming young people using the park to pop in for toilets, water and a safe space if needed. A multi-generational trim trail is also being explored.
⚽ Paddy's Park - football nets replaced, tree guards removed, and seating to be cleaned and repositioned.
🌿 Paddling Pool Park - moss and ivy cleared from the play areas (works to the paddling pool itself are awaiting a suitable contractor).
🌳 Spa Park - football nets to be moved to allow the ground to rest and regrow and nets replaced.
🎾 The Pavilions - exploring the possibility of converting one or two tennis courts into a multi-use games area for young people.
Now it's your turn 🗳️
North Yorkshire Council has opened public consultations on proposals for five play areas across the Uredale area, and the team would love to hear from residents, families and young people. Both links below take you to a short online form where you choose the play area you'd like to comment on.
🔗 Allhallows Ripon, Bishop Monkton and Masham recreation ground: https://shorturl.at/4RwAB
🔗 Grove Lane Ripon and The Oaks Masham: https://shorturl.at/cN6V4
⏰ Closing date for the consultations: Thursday 2 July. You'll need to complete a separate form for each play area you'd like to give feedback on.
A huge thank you to the young people who have shared their ideas, to the partners delivering the work, and to everyone who has championed these spaces. This is what happens when a community is listened to. Please share these links far and wide, the more voices we hear, the better the results will be.
