Cash boost for garden town's community improvements

The improvements are part of decade-long plans to transform Didcot

More than £500,000 will be invested in improving a town's green spaces.

South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse district councils approved the funding as part of their decade-long plans to transform Didcot after it was awarded garden town status in 2015.

Money will be spent on signage in the town to "improve wayfinding" in the area, the authorities said.

It will also be used to encourage food growing and public art projects, as well as improving the national cycle route 544 to make it safer for users.

The proposals are intended to help people easily find where they want to go, highlight local spaces and encourage people to walk or cycle, the councils said.

The strategy will also promote "notable destinations" and connectivity in Didcot.

Sue Caul, Vale of White Horse District Council lead for housing and infrastructure, said it was a "significant sum of money" that would ensure the continued development of "Didcot garden town".

She said it would have a "real, positive impact" on residents.

“The wayfinding improvements will not only help people discover the best bits of Didcot, it will also help promote a sense of community and belonging,” she said.

'Bring the garden to Didcot'

Robin Bennett, South Oxfordshire District Council deputy leader, said: “We know how important green spaces are for people’s physical and mental health.

"Approving the funding for these projects means we can make it easier for our residents to access and enjoy them."

He said the strategies and funding would provide "vital first steps" towards increasing local biodiversity and reducing climate impact.

It would help "bring the garden to Didcot garden town", he added.