East Bridgford play area has received a revamp and is now fully accessible with new inclusive play equipment for all families to enjoy.
Rushcliffe Borough Council (RBC) granted over £30,000 of its Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) allocation to the project matched with over £13,000 from East Bridgford Parish Council to replace old equipment and transform the play area into a modern and inclusive site.
The park located on Butt Field in the village has now welcomed new sensory equipment, a wheelchair accessible roundabout, specialist swings and a trampoline that wheelchairs can be used on.
RBC representatives recently joined East Bridgford Parish Council Members and local resident Jamie McKean, her daughter Delilah and her son Jimmy who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy, at the play area.
RBC’s Director for Development and Economic Growth Leanne Ashmore said: “This is an impressive play area which has undergone a big transformation to make it more accessible for families such as Jamie’s.
“The play area is located next to St Peter’s CE Primary School and is well-used by local schoolchildren and residents. It’s the only play area available nearby so it’s important that these facilities ensure all children of all abilities can play together.”
Jamie added: “It’s just great that the park is completely accessible for everybody, for all ages and abilities. Especially for a small village, these are fantastic facilities.
“It’s made a huge difference for the family, before the new upgrades to the park, Jimmy couldn’t get into the park at all. Now he can enjoy playing at the play area with his sisters.
“The park is heavily used in the summer and after school so it’s great so many children can enjoy it.”
East Bridgford Parish Clerk Sharon Ellis said: “East Bridgford Parish Council would like to extend our thanks to RBC for their support through their REPF grant in making the first part of this project a reality.
“The funding has played a key role in transforming the play area into a modern, inclusive space that is accessible to everyone. Without vital contributions like this, these areas would remain outdated and unable to meet the needs of our community. We are proud to offer a safe and welcoming environment where all individuals can come together and enjoy the benefits of play, regardless of age or ability.”
In a further stage of the project, the Parish Council secured £90,000 from the FCC Community Fund and provided additional funding to widen the entrances to the play area with new gates and a flattened surface for wheelchair and pushchair access along with additional play equipment. Braille signs on all entrances and notices will also be installed in due course.