BRIDGNORTH is to get an updated public play area with a BMX track following a £50,000 shot in the arm from Government funds. Work on installing the new equipment at Lodge Lane, which will include a new climbing unit, zip wire and a big ‘bird’s nest’ swing, is set to start later this month and will take about three weeks.
The money has come from the Playbuilder Programme, which is funded by th Department for Schools, Families and Children and run by Shropshire Council’s parks and countryside sites team, whose aim is to create 22 new or largely refurbished play spaces throughout Shropshire over the next two years.
“The play area at Lodge Lane is very dated and is in desperate need of refurbishment,” said local Shropshire Councillor Christian Lea. “We are keeping play equipment that is in good working order, such as the swings and slides, but the climbing frame will be replaced. This will be a fantastic new play area for local children that will be complimented by planting and natural surfacing,” he added.
The contract has been awarded by Nottingham play area specialists Proludic Ltd who will be installing the equipment on bark or grass matting to create a more natural feel to the area. “A consultation event took place on Saturday to get the local community’s views on their local greenspace,” said Amy Davies, greenspace support officer for Shropshire Council.
“Many good suggestions such as more benches, more planting and more equipment for both the toddler and teenage groups were given and a two-year plan is being created by Shropshire Council, which will be unveiled later on in the year. The aim is to create a park that can be enjoyed by all members of the community.
“We are hoping to secure funding throughout the next two years to create seating areas, plant up the play and woodland areas and also provide play equipment for older children.
“A BMX track is also to be built on the site to replicate the one that existed there 20 years ago. There will be a community event where everyone can bring their shovels along and shape the jumps.”
Future community events will be advertised on the site, but further information can be obtained from Amy Davies on (01743) 255912, email amy.j.davies@shropshire.gov.uk
