2009 Yearbook

r e v i e w 39 The listed main gates to Mary Stevens Park in Stourbridge, erected in 1930 at a cost of £5,500 by Messrs Hill & Smith, of Brierley Hill, who were members of the Birmingham Guild. raising expectations if an event is well planned. Whatever approach is taken, whether through a participation, engagement or consultation exercise, community involvement is always a positive and integral part of any process of formulating future management or proposals. Each approach does require a different level of resource and commitment, both by the consultant and the client, but common principles do exist. In broad terms, applying these common principles means ensuring that: • the event is as accessible as possible • sufficient time and resources are made available for community involvement at different stages of the process • participants understand what realistic results and opportunities can be achieved • the event is well publicised and targeted • and, perhaps most importantly, the event generates and maintains public interest both during and after the event. In applying these principles, especially in terms of accessibility, many factors need careful consideration. These include the cultural and linguistic diversity of the audience, setting dates for meetings that maximise attendance, and making presentations The visioning exercise for Mary Stevens Park, Stourbridge engaged local stakeholder and community groups in the future vision and priorities for their park. It was an important event, underpinning a Round 1 Parks for People application to the Heritage Lottery Fund. or other information available to those who are unable to attend. Facilitation, listening and mediation services were deployed by Heritage Initiatives for a series of community participation events for Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council to establish a long term vision, aims and objectives for the restoration of Mary Stevens Park in Stourbridge. The first of these events brought together representatives of the 20 groups that use the park, from the model boat club to the croquet club and local football league. In facilitating the meeting Heritage Initiatives set out the parameters and aims of the event, enabling the participants to understand its context. Then, in smaller groups, a series of round- table discussions allowed all those involved to communicate their aspirations. The final step was to mediate between complementary but at times conflicting users’ concerns, reflecting their differing needs and aspirations. The result was consensus on the long term vision, aims and objectives for the park. This approach has led to the creation of a partnership forum for the park and a charter which has at its core a vision statement in which all the signatory groups illustrate their adoption of and commitment to the approach. Heritage Initatives is a specialist historic environment consultancy. Its work includes supporting local authorities in characterising urban areas, formulating plans and bid submissions for revitalising historic towns and villages, and bringing public parks back to life. Heritage Initiatives’ business model utilises highly respected and experienced consultants working in project teams to deliver cost-effective and appropriate solutions for clients through a multi-disciplinary service. Concentrating on a small number of engagements at any one time allows the company to focus on the needs of their clients and on meeting deadlines. Heritage Initiatives has secured registration under the IHBC’s Historic Environment Services Providers Recognition (HESPR) programme. Nathan Blanchard, the company’s HESPR Designated Service Advisor, is a chartered town planner and a member of the IHBC, the Urban Design Group, and the Institute of Parks and Green Space. He believes that being a member of HESPR is vital as it allows his company to clearly demonstrate to clients its professional credibility, adherence to standards and positive approach to quality assurance, which have become increasingly important as local authorities move towards the central procurement of services.