Works to begin on people’s choice play areas

The people of South Derbyshire have spoken, and their choices for two new play areas are set to come to life!

Following an initial consultation and public vote, new play areas for Maurice Lea Memorial Park and Swadlincote Woodlands are set to begin development. Following the approval of £280,000 at Full Council in February 2024, the process to revamp the District’s play areas began.

An initial public consultation was launched in April which was followed by a further consultation where people were asked to select their preferred option between five possible designs put forward.

The voting for the new play area designs closed on 9 August and attracted over 1,000 responses. The two designs that were voted the most popular are now being brought to life to transform the play areas.

Councillor Robert Pearson, South Derbyshire District Council Leader said: “This investment is vital in ensuring our parks and green spaces are inclusive places that will serve all our communities well into the future.

“Our residents’ needs have been at the forefront of this redevelopment, and this was reflected by how many responses we had to our consultation. I would like to thank everybody for their input and look forward to seeing the completed play areas.”

Works are to begin at both outdoor park areas starting Monday 4 November. Maurice Lea will take approximately two months to complete, Swadlincote Woodlands one - subject to weather conditions. During this time, the Council asks park users for their understanding for any disruptions whilst the work is underway.

These new play areas are on top of the refurbishments announced for Oversetts Recreation Ground in Newhall and the creation of a Bevin Boys Mining Memorial Garden in Eureka Park, Swadlincote.

31 October 2024