Woodlands Park marks start of year of investment in Play

Children from Belmont Primary School have given their seal of approval to the newly renovated play area at Woodlands Park, as South Derbyshire District Council marks the start of its year of investment in Play.

The new play area has benefited from an £80,000 capital investment, and forms part of the Council’s ongoing efforts to provide high-quality, accessible recreational spaces for children and families across the District. In 2024/2025, South Derbyshire District Council will have invested more than £280k in play area improvements, as part of a £1.3m five-year investment plan to enhance parks and recreational spaces for local families.

The new and improved play space was designed and installed by the Council’s play equipment supplier, Sutcliffe Play, in response to feedback from residents, who played an essential role in selecting the scheme, ensuring that it meets the needs and wishes of families in the area.

Getting ready for warmer days ahead, the play area now benefits from a second zip line, so children can now race each other across the park, as well as a nature-themed area designed specifically for toddlers. These new additions, combined with the existing play structures, provide a stimulating and safe environment for children of all ages to explore and enjoy.

A group of children from Belmont Primary School recently joined the Chair of the Council, Cllr Sean Bambrick, and his fellow local Councillors, Cllr Angela Archer (Vice Chair), Cllr Mick Mulgrew, and Cllr Neil Tilley, to officially declare the improved facilities open.

“We are thrilled to have created this exciting new play area for our young residents,” said Cllr Bambrick.

“The improvements at Woodlands Park show our commitment to providing more accessible and enjoyable play opportunities for all children. We hope this will be a destination for fun, adventure, and memories for years to come.”

One of the key priorities in the Council Plan 2024-2028, is to Support Our Local Communities, ensuring ‘people and communities are supported to live safely, healthily and independently’. This programme of works will do just that; prioritising the local community’s health and well-being, encouraging active outdoor play, while also fostering social interaction among children and their families.

24 January 2025