January 27, 2016

For Immediate Release

MHA Calls on City to Ensure Local Park is Maintained:

Bidgood Park offers immense benefit to families and must be supported and maintained in Goulds Region

Keith Hutchings, MHA for the District of Ferryland, is calling on the City of St. John’s to ensure the quality, protection and access to the Grand Concourse is maintained. The recent budget decision by city council to alter the funding model for the Grand Concourse Authority must not obstruct access or lessen the quality of the 31 acres of Bidgood Park enjoyed by residents of the Goulds.

"Residents of the Goulds, the former Provincial Government, multiple community partners and the Bidgood Family have all shown immense support for the establishment of Bidgood Park. As Member of the House of Assembly for the district of Ferryland, I call on the City of St. John’s to implement the appropriate measures to ensure Bidgood Park is maintained and protected,” said Hutchings.

Bidgood Park is a remarkable recreational space that offers numerous benefits to the families in the Goulds and beyond. Initiatives such as these support outdoor healthy activities during all seasons of the year. The park was made possible through the philanthropic efforts of Roger and Jennie Bidgood who donated the 38 acres of land to the City of St. John's for its development. This area showcases the views of our local scenery and pays respectful homage to our past.

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Media Contact:

Heather MacLean

Director of Communications

Office of the Official Opposition

(709) 729 6105

heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca