Charity set to buy Moulton Park and open it to the public

After years of uncertainty Moulton Park could officially be opened to the public by the spring courtesy of a charity set up by a former miller.

The John and Maureen Biggadike Foundation says it is in the process of purchasing 22 acres of the site from South Holland District Council.

It was set up a year ago following the death of the aforementioned John to help good causes in the village.

Its chair Richard Lewis had objected to a previous application to open the park up so long as the council wanted to build houses as well on part of the site.

Now the district council has approached the charity about purchasing all but one acre of the 23 acre site.

The sale is going through legal formalities while a change of use planning application that would allow the park to be open to the public has been submitted.

The foundation also says it will continue to offer the plot of land previously offered to Moulton Parish Council to create a long-awaited play area for children.

“At long last this park is set to be open for the public,” Mr Lewis said. “We’ve a very good relationship with the current leadership of SHDC and they seem very keen for this to go through.

“As soon as the legal formalities have been completed we will call a public meeting and speak to the people of Moulton to see how they want Moulton Park to be used and managed.

“We hope to have the park open for people to enjoy again by the spring.”

Coun Henry Bingham, portfolio holder for assets, said: “We are delighted to be dealing with the foundation and look forward to there delivery of what will be a fantastic space for the community and district.

“Thanks to the patience of the trustees and assistance from ward members and officers, we believe that the right owners have been found for this space.

“I personally look forward to seeing what they can achieve with it.” 

Coun Anthony Casson, said: “We (SHDC) bought Moulton Park in 2016, to protect it from being developed for housing with the intention to eventually open it for public use.

“I am very pleased we have now secured long term engagement with a likeminded partner that wants to buy the park from the council so it can be opened to the public.

“I have the upmost faith they are the ideal people to look after this space.

“I know it has taken a long time, but I am looking forward to it being finally opened and reach a successful conclusion.

“It will be a nice place for the public to walk round the Park and enjoy for years to come.”