Moses Gate contemplative space approved by Bolton Council

This came after the council agreed to give the go-ahead to a plan to create a “contemplative space” at Moses Gate Country Park for families who have lost a loved one.

For Maxine Whalley, of Burnden Park, who lost her son Arron when he took his own life aged 31 in 2022, this is the realisation of a long-held wish.

She said: “Health and wellbeing are one of the council’s core visions for residents and it is important that we look at how we can address this issue.

“Tragically, in the past three years alone, at least four well known young people have taken their own lives and that is just in the Farnworth area.

The contemplative space will be found close to Rock Hall (Image: Newsquest)

“The contemplative space is for anyone who is struggling personally along with people who have lost people close to them, and of course those who can offer support.”

The idea was approved by the council’s executive member for the environment at a meeting on Monday, February 12 this year.

The new contemplative space will be found around 200 metres from Rock Hall and can be accessed by the Avon Bridge, also known locally as the Red Bridge.

Maxine said: “I am very grateful to Cllr Richard Silvester for agreeing to meet with us and others to see the project through to the next stage.

“When I received the news on Monday night that Cllr Silvester had formally approved the proposed contemplative space in Moses Gate Country Park, I was over the moon.

“Now that the proposed location has been agreed, we hope to move onto the next stage which is to install seating at locations within the triangle.”

After the loss of her son, Maxine had decided that she would look at ways to help people who were contemplating taking their own lives.

She was joined in her mission by Janet Fitton, of Moses Gate, whose son Daniel tragically died in a moped accident aged 18.

Janet said: “It is hoped that the project will complement and enhance the recently installed ‘chatty benches’ that have been put in place locally.

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“In the contemplative space, people can reflect and find support from others who can relate to their feelings of deep sadness.

“Following discussions with council officers, we aim to secure a path around the triangle and then install our first few benches.

“We then hope to add further furniture and information boards.”

Both women said they wishes to thank council officers Jon Dyson and John Gregory for their help and support.