Agenda item

A briefing note will be supplied that outlines investment in parks and play areas in the ward.  

Councillor Palmer gave an update regarding the provision of play equipment in the ward. He explained to the meeting that funding had been received for the ward from two sources – “Playbuilder,” a Government initiative to provide play equipment for 8-13 year-olds, and the Big Lottery Fund for schemes aimed at 2-8 years. Both of these would be used to provide play equipment for a wide age range. In total, there was just under £500,000 available.

Councillor Palmer explained what had already been done in planning the work, and the current position. The Parks Team had looked at possible sites in the ward and identified two options, 1) update existing sites, 2) find new sites. Any site had to match certain criteria such as flat land, accessibility and safety. Young people were being asked for their views on the type of equipment they wanted.

Areas that had been suggested included the Sturdee Road recreation ground (although there were concerns that this may not be big enough), the Exchange Park or the Spinney. Councillor Palmer suggested that it may be appropriate to have one larger area for all ages, across from the Exchange, as this was a suitable and visible area, and would be convenient when the proposed redevelopment of the Exchange was completed.

Members of the public made suggestions, including the following:

• Nearby residents need to be considered, such as if the area was placed near to the bungalows as the residents may be disturbed.
• There is nowhere to play in the middle of the estate, but there is plenty of space. (Councillor Palmer responded that there wasn’t a site big enough to have a safe play area.)
• There are road safety concerns – appropriate crossing arrangements are needed. If the proposal to build it on the Exchange Park is agreed, it would be near to a bus lay-by.
• Land near the Scarlet Pimpernel may not be suitable due to narrow roads and dangerous parking.
• The area for very young children should have a safety fence.
• Investigate the possible provision of other activities, such as skateboarding, adventure course, freerunning complex.
• Consider the need for floodlights.
• Don’t forget traditional equipment, such as swings, which are always popular.

Councillor Palmer said that gates, safety fencing and floodlights would be considered if necessary. He stated that work was being done to try to provide a freerunning facility, as there was demand for it. A group of young people were actively trying to get this set up. He invited a member of the freerunning group to explain to the meeting what it was and what they were trying to do.

The memer of the group explained freerunning and Parkour. Parkour concentrated on the gymnastic side, showing off skills, and freerunning involved finding a means of escape across an urban environment, turning it into an obstacle course. They were trying to get funding to build a site near the bike track. It would include a variety of materials and equipment. Skills were built up in a gym to build confidence and to allow each person to assess risks. Councillor Palmer thanked him for the explanation and members of the public applauded him and wished the group well in their efforts.

Councillor Palmer said, with regard to the play area funding, that comments would be taken on board. Proposals would have to go through a proper planning process, but developments would be reported back to the meeting.