The county and city councils are exploring stronger links in a joint quest to raise Watermead Country Park’s profile as a top visitor attraction.
The closer working relationship between Leicestershire County Council and Leicester City Council is now clearly visible with more than 50 new signs, including interpretation boards, now dotted around the two sites which cover more than 350 acres.
The signage includes the joint branding of county and city councils’ logos as both authorities work together to improve connectivity.
Historically Watermead, which has the River Soar and Grand Union Canal running through it, has had separate identities – the south section at Rushey Mead being managed by the city council, and the north section at Wanlip Road, Syston, including King Lear's Lake, being managed by the county council.
But both authorities are now committed to a ‘shared vision’ for Watermead, which has since April this year attracted more than 245,000 visitors.
I’ve got a shared vision with Sir Peter Soulsby in the city of the two parts of Watermead park being in closer unity.
"It’s already happening with greater collaboration between the rangers and we want to bring a real sense of shared commitment to the country park to attract more people.
Person:County council leader Nick Rushton
It’s not just about the important economic benefits of more visitors to Watermead, but we want to make sure we harness the park’s full potential for promoting health and wellbeing.
Person:City Mayor Peter Soulsby
Discussions have also started on the possibility of providing a more permanent link between the two sections of the country park, but the talks are at a very early stage.