THE BRAND new Talbot Park was officially opened in Kidderminster on Saturday.
The newly-created vibrant green space was officially unveiled with a ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by Jean Talbot, the wife of Charles Talbot MBE who the park is named after, Wyre Forest District Council leader, Coun Marcus Hart, and chairman, Coun Paul Harrison. The Mayor of Kidderminster, Coun Doug Hine, also attended the event.
The thoughtfully designed park has been delivered through investment from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund and represents a cornerstone of the council’s ambitious Kidderminster 2040 vision.
The revitalisation of Worcester Street has created a welcoming community space, complete with elegant, winding steps connecting to Bromsgrove Street car park, a lively children’s play area and seating for relaxation and socialising.
The site – once home to several well-known shops – has been transformed into a modern and inviting urban green space.
Picture by Colin Hill. s
Charles left an impressive legacy to the town – he founded the Youth Centre, served as trustee of the Museum of Carpet and he campaigned to create Kidderminster Town Council.
He was also involved long-term in the town twinning between Kidderminster and Husum.
The Talbot family has contributed to professional life and public service in Kidderminster, with seven mayors spanning seven generations.
Charles served on Wyre Forest District Council for three years between 1976 and 1979.
He was awarded the MBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours in 2017 for services to the community.
Coun Hart said: “Talbot Park is a shining example of our commitment to revitalising the town centre, creating an attractive, accessible space that will inspire further investment, encourage visitors, and support local businesses.”
He added it was a place where the community could come together, adding the future of Kidderminster town centre felt more exciting than ever.
Coun Dan Morehead, the council’s cabinet member for economic regeneration, planning and the green agenda, added: “Talbot Park is designed for everyone.
“Whether it’s families enjoying the play area, workers taking a break outdoors, or residents and visitors meeting in a welcoming central space, this park will quickly become a valued part of daily life.”
Picture by Colin Hill. s
Stuart MacKenzie, Director of McPhillips which carried out the transformative works, said: “It’s been a real privilege to work on this connectivity scheme that will make such a lasting difference to Kidderminster town centre.”
Visit: wyreforestdc.gov.uk/talbotpark for more on Talbot Park and: www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/edr/ for more on Wyre Forest’s regeneration.
