Local Students Fit Brand New Snibston Colliery Park Boardwalk

Students from Stephenson College, Coalville, have been doing their bit for the local community with a four-week boardwalk regeneration project at Snibston Colliery Park.

The project, which launched last week, involves a collaborative effort between Leicestershire County Council, Tilbury Douglas and the College’s Level 2 Carpentry and Joinery students.

Whilst on-site, students will be working to make the area safe, accessible and enjoyable for the public by removing the old boardwalk and replacing it with a sturdier frame and secure fittings.

Level 2 Carpentry and Joinery student, Riley, said “This is the first opportunity I’ve had to do anything like this, and I’m really enjoying it so far. It’s been great to get hands-on experience of a carpentry job in the real world, and it will be nice to see the boardwalk functional again.”

Dave Baldock, Curriculum Quality Lead for Construction Trades at Stephenson College added: "Our students have approached this project with focus and responsibility, ensuring all fixings are properly secured to meet safety requirements. Despite adverse weather conditions, they are committed to completing the task without complaints, demonstrating their strong work ethic and cooperation skills."

Located just six minutes’ drive from Stephenson College in the heart of the National Forest, Snibston Colliery Park is a cornerstone of the local community, offering a Heritage Trail, sculptures by local artists, a bike trail, a nature reserve and more. It is also the best-preserved colliery site in the country. 

Based in Coalville, Leicestershire, Stephenson College has a rich heritage of its own, with last year marking the college’s centenary. Specialising in technical and trade qualifications, the college has trained many generations of professionals over its 100-year tenure, with an exciting future ahead.