A new network of parks, public art and outdoor spaces celebrating the people, businesses and heritage of Manor Royal Business District has officially been launched.
Manor Royal Links is a initiative created, delivered and maintained by the Manor Royal Business Improvement District (Manor Royal BID), bringing together a growing collection of parks, landscaped spaces, improved entranceways, walking routes and public artworks that reflect the unique identity of one of the South East's largest and most successful business districts.
The initiative has been developed to create attractive, accessible places where employees, visitors and local people can meet, relax, walk and enjoy the outdoors while discovering the unique stories and history that have shaped Manor Royal over more than 75 years. The network has been inspired by extensive engagement with businesses, employees and the wider community, with many of the improvements reflecting the area's rich industrial heritage, pioneering companies and the people who have helped make Manor Royal what it is today.
The launch is accompanied by a dedicated website, www.manorroyal-links.org, providing information and maps to help guide visitors around the various park areas and points of interest they can now find throughout the business district allowing them to plot their own route and discover the area in their own way, depending on how much time and how ambitious they feel.
The Manor Royal Links network includes established destinations such as Crawter's Brook People's Park, The Terrace, the Manor Royal Central Superhub, murals and a growing number of landscaped pocket parks. Together they form a network designed to ensure that employees have access to high-quality outdoor space within a short walk of where they work. As well as being responsible for their delivery, the Manor Royal BID is also responsible for their long-term upkeep and maintenance
Steve Sawyer, Executive Director of Manor Royal BID, said:
"Manor Royal Links represents much more than a collection of parks and public spaces. It is about creating places with purpose, spaces that support wellbeing, encourage people to spend time outdoors and celebrate the remarkable story of Manor Royal.
“Every mural, artwork, park and new point of interest has been inspired by the people and businesses that make Manor Royal unique, helping create a stronger sense of place for everyone who works, visits or invests here. We are deeply appreciative for the support from our partners, Crawley Borough Council, West Sussex County Council, the Crawley Growth Programme and the Towns Fund who have supported us in bringing this long-held vision for a better Manor Royal to life."
The creation of Manor Royal Links forms part of the Manor Royal BID's wider commitment to improving the business environment through investment in infrastructure, green spaces, sustainability and placemaking. By combining high-quality public realm with art, heritage and biodiversity, the initiative aims to support employee wellbeing, encourage active travel, enhance biodiversity and reinforce Manor Royal's reputation as an outstanding place to do business.
For more information about Manor Royal Links, including maps, trails and information about each location, visit www.manorroyal-links.org.
