A once simple green space in Pen y Fai has been transformed into a safer and more welcoming community area thanks to funding from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
Pheasant Field has undergone a series of improvements designed to make the area more accessible, vibrant and enjoyable for local residents of all ages. The project has turned the site into a community hub where people can meet, relax and take part in activities.
Visitors to the field will now find new safety lighting to support evening walks, inclusive picnic areas for gatherings and accessible gates to make entry easier for wheelchairs and prams.
The improvements also support local wildlife with the addition of a bug hotel and bird boxes. A new community book stop has also been installed, offering residents the chance to share and exchange books within the village.
The project began in 2024 when Newcastle Higher Community Council partnered with the council’s Reach team to carry out a feasibility study. The work involved gathering feedback from residents and completing a full access audit to ensure the space would meet the needs of the whole community.
The study helped secure a Resilient Communities Capital Grant through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, which contributed to the upgrades at Pheasant Field.
Claire Westrop, from the local community, said: “The improvement to this space have made a huge difference to the local community. We’ve wanted a bookstore for many years. Pheasant Field has become a local hub for people of all ages to come together and enjoy.”
Mike Parker, another local resident, added: “With these additions we can encourage people of all ages to get involved and share in the community spirit. There are all sorts of activities we can enjoy in the outdoor area, and in the local pub which looks onto the field. We have live music events, and a fete in the summer along with community groups, such as crochet and floral art indoors.”
Cllr Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, said: “It is fantastic to see how the Shared Prosperity Fund is making a tangible difference right in the heart of our villages. By investing in spaces like Pheasant Field, we aren’t just fixing up a park; we’re creating a place where people feel safe, included, and connected to their environment. This is exactly the kind of grassroots development that makes our communities thrive. The makeover is a perfect example of what happens when local voices and strategic investment team up. It’s a win for accessibility, a win for the environment, and a huge win for the people of Pen y Fai.”
Harris Stone, Clerk and RFO for Newcastle Higher Community Council, said: “This project represents NHCC’s commitment to creating inclusive, sustainable community spaces that bring people together. By listening to our residents and investing in thoughtful improvements, we’re enhancing both the physical environment and community connections.”
The Resilient Communities Capital Grant programme is funded through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, which supports local projects aimed at strengthening communities and improving public spaces.
