GROVE Park in Weston-Super-Mare could be set for a major makeover as part of £20 million plans.

A planning application has been submitted by architect We Made That, on behalf of North Somerset Council, for changes to the site.

If approved, the scheme would see the current toilet block – closed due to vandalism – demolished and replaced with a more accessible facility, as well as changes to the site entrance and improved drainage.

The Grove Park application outlines plans to:
* redesign the park’s main entrance to include additional planting, new seating, installation of a sustainable draining system, re-surfacing and signage.
* remove the existing public toilet block, and construct a new public toilet block, including an accessible toilet and baby changing facilities, near the café. The current block, which is planned to be demolished, has been closed since December 2023 due to vandalism.

The council said the project was part of it’s ‘placemaking vision for the town’, boosted by a £20 million grant from the UK government.

A new toilet block would be built within Grove Park, in Weston. Picture: We Made That/North Somerset Council

Cllr Mark Canniford, executive member responsible for placemaking, said the proposals had been shaped by local people, community groups and organisations after a series of engagement events led by We Made That, in collaboration with Super Culture, including the free Grove Park Gathering in June.

“It’s great to see these proposals being submitted for planning approval,” he said.

“If approved, the work would make a positive difference to the park’s main entrance from the High Street and relocate the public toilet block back into the park.

“We want to draw more people to and from the town centre to enjoy this beautiful town centre green space, encouraging more footfall and trade into the town.

“It’s a key priority for the council to involve the local community in shaping plans. I was delighted that over 120 people attended the Grove Park Gathering event in June and to see that those people’s comments have fed into these proposals.”

If approved, the makeover is expected to be completed next year.

Grove Park would see a number of big changes under the plans. Picture: We Made That/North Somerset Council