Funding breathes new life into popular community space
Thursday 05 March 2026
Things are looking a lot brighter (and greener!) at Pheasant Field in Pen y Fai, thanks to funding which has transformed the community area into a safer, more welcoming, and vibrant space for residents to enjoy.
The enhancements have been delivered thanks to a successful funding bid through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. What was once a simple green space has been transformed into a far more inviting community hub. The upgraded green space has also been made more accessible, safer, and turned into a vibrant community recreational area.
Visitors will now find brand-new safety lighting for evening strolls, inclusive picnic areas perfect for a weekend get togthers, and accessible gates that make entry much easier for wheelchairs and prams. The improvements also support local wildlife with the introduction of a bug hotel and bird boxes, alongside a new community book stop for the village’s avid readers.
The project kicked off in 2024 when the Newcastle Higher Community Council teamed up with the council’s ‘Reach’ team to conduct a feasibility study. By involving the views of local residents and running a full access audit, the team ensured the improvements were suitable for the whole community. This feasibility study led to a successful bid for a Resilient Communities Capital Grant contributing to the Pheasant Field enhancements.
“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. "
“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.”
"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.”
"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 is funded through the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund.
For more information on this funding, visit the council’s funding webpages.
