Riverside Gardens, the new Government-grant-funded park at the heart of Shrewsbury’s long-term regeneration plans, opened today.

Riverside Gardens is the first phase of the Smithfield Riverside programme, which is set to transform the area between the River Severn and The Darwin shopping centre.

There was a small ribbon cutting ceremony attended by members of the local business community, Big Town Plan Partnership and Shropshire Council officers and councillors.

Shrewsbury Mayor Bernie Bentick and Councillor Rob Wilson, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for transport and regeneration, cut the ribbon to officially open the brand-new park to the public - joined by Rachel Robinson, our deputy chief executive.

The main section of Riverside Gardens has opened six weeks ahead of schedule with visitors able to explore the play area, open recreational area, and the distinctive climbing boulder and rock formations – made out of English sandstone, limestone, basalt and granite including locally sourced Grinshill sandstone.

Alongside being a destination in its own right, the park also enables a through route from Frankwell to Raven Meadows. This is supported by a new lift, enabling access from Frankwell car park across the footbridge. Step-free access is via Welsh Bridge.