Parks may see parking fees, attraction closure and nursery cuts as Birmingham seeks savings amid budget pressures.
The council proposes some controversial changes, including parking charges in parks and the possible closure of a major attraction. The council also wants to boost park income. Car parking charges may come to three parks: Sutton, Lickey Hills, and Sheldon.
A council member called the charges unfair, while the council leader says income is needed. A cabinet member stated that Birmingham has nice parks and that they must maintain them.
Sheldon Country Park Farm could close or be transferred to a new owner. The council also wants to partner with other groups, which they say could improve service delivery. The council is trying to find solutions.
The city wants to maximize park income and plans to review contracts and activities. New commercial options are being considered, including ideas like a high-ropes course. One councillor worries about commercial ventures and is wary of long-term leases. The council states that commercial ventures do not use much space.
Kings Heath Park nursery may close, despite over 3,000 people wanting it to stay open. A council member says closure is bad. The council says they cannot run it as a nursery; however, alternative uses are being explored, possibly involving a third-party group. Coleshill Nursery might also close, and staff could move to grounds maintenance work.