Bulbs bloom as Erewash parks get £1m investment boost

By Esther Ogonya

Spring has arrived in Erewash, with almost 170,000 bulbs now in bloom at Ilkeston’s Victoria Park.

Council leader Cllr James Dawson said: “It has been a cold wet winter. But here in Erewash the good news is that the future now looks so much sunnier.”

More displays and improvements to green spaces are expected throughout the year, following new investment in parks. Erewash’s latest budget includes over £1 million for parks and open spaces.

The displays have already caught the attention of visitors from further afield, including 66-year-old Shaun Sheehan, who was born in the area but now lives in Detroit, Michigan.

He said: “Back in Michigan – the state where I now live – we can get 4ft of snow around this time of year so it is heart-warming to see such lovely spring blooms.”

Planned improvements include upgrades to paths, lighting and children’s play areas.

The council says its financial position, alongside increased government funding, means it can invest more across the borough while remaining debt-free.