Wolves Foundation are heading up a partnership with the City of Wolverhampton Council aimed at reducing antisocial behaviour and bringing underused green spaces back to life.
Supported by funding from the Premier League Foundation, ‘Your Space’ is an extension to the Premier League Kicks project and will target four areas which have become associated with nuisance behaviour and low-level crime.
By filling these spaces with positive activities and a regular community presence, the initiative aims to create safer, more welcoming environments where residents feel proud and confident to spend time.
And local voluntary and community organisations being encouraged to get involved.
The first phase will begin later this month at Weddell Wynd in Bilston and Chervil Rise/Long Ley in Heath Town, with Peace Green in Whitmore Reans and Tennison Avenue in Bushbury and Low Hill following soon after.
These locations have been chosen using crime and community data that highlight long‑standing concerns about safety, visibility and the need for more positive neighbourhood activity.
Tom Warren, general manager of Wolves Foundation, said: “Our open spaces should be places where young people feel safe, welcome and able to be themselves.
“Through this initiative, we’re working alongside local community organisations to bring positive, visible activity into parks and green spaces that matter to local people. By using activities as a way to connect, we’re helping communities reclaim these spaces and build a stronger sense of belonging.”
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, added: “Local communities can look forward to enjoying a range of activities designed to encourage people to return to these green spaces.
“Plans include family-friendly events, sports sessions, arts and cultural workshops, nature activities and youth-focused programmes, but residents will help to shape what is delivered in each area, thereby ensuring activities reflect their interests and needs.
“And, as well as creating safe, vibrant, and welcoming community spaces, having a regular presence from local groups, outreach teams and volunteers will reduce the likelihood of criminal or antisocial behaviour at these locations.”
Wolves Foundation secured match funding through a successful Premier League application, allowing it to lead the programme while working in close partnership with grassroots organisations city-wide. The ambition is to build a model of collaboration that can be replicated across the city, giving residents more chances to connect, participate and shape what happens in their communities.
Community organisations have the opportunity to play a central role in the project, with voluntary and community groups invited to submit expressions of interest to join Wolves Foundation in delivering activities over a six‑month period. For more information, please contact kurrankullar@wolves.co.uk by 17th April.
