WORK will start in a few days to build five new Essex play areas, with families calling the £1 million project “excellent” news reports the Local Democracy Reporter.
Castle Point Borough Council is overseeing the “substantial investment” in the play areas in Benfleet, Hadleigh and Thundersley. The works will begin in April and are expected to be completed by the end of September.
Hadleigh Memorial Park will see a new castle-themed play tower, offering climbing and “imaginative” play for children. Richmond Park, Benfleet, will benefit from a full playground “rejuvenation”, including a “striking” ship-themed central play structure.
At South Benfleet Playing Fields, the council will open its first “accessible and inclusive” playground, designed for children with a wide range of needs. At Woodside Park in Thundersley, there will be a new multi-use games arena for community sport and Thundersley Common Recreation Ground will get a second new multi-use games arena, giving young people even more options for active play.
The council says residents may see some temporary closures at these parks while works are carried out but that it will “keep any disruption to a minimum” and will provide “clear” updates as the project continues. More than 50 residents posted online, with many supporting the new playgrounds, calling it “a good start in the right direction.” Another pleased parent added: “This will be great for the little ones in the area.”
Michael Fuller, the councillor responsible for the environment, said it “demonstrates” the commitment to creating enjoyable, high-quality outdoor spaces for families. He added: “These improvements will encourage children, including those with disabilities, to explore and be active for years to come.”
