Work got under way last week on a new play area at an award-winning park in Stafford.
Contractors have moved on to the site of the old play area in Stafford’s Victoria Park to start work on the major revamp.
The plans were drawn up after members of the design team visited nurseries, schools and colleges in the area to get youngsters’ ideas on what features they wanted. Consultations were also carried out with local community groups – including the’ Friends of Victoria Park.’
The £650,000 scheme will see the two existing play areas replaced with a range of new equipment and landscaping to fit in with the rest of the park. A dedicated youth area will be created, along with a new toddler and junior playground. The existing paddling pool will be replaced by a new sand and water play feature.
Victoria Park retained its ‘Green Flag’ for the fourth year running last July – an award given to the best parks and open spaces in the country. The park was originally opened in 1908 and named the Victoria Park Pleasure grounds and the layout has changed very little since this time.
Cabinet member for leisure, Councillor Mike Smith, said: “I'm pleased the contractors are now on site and I'm sure the local community will eagerly observe the progress of this very exciting project.”
Cllr Smith said the council had received an excellent response from youngsters, their parents and local community groups about what they wanted to see in the new play area.
“It is a huge investment for the younger members of our community which is why their feedback was important to help ensure we deliver a scheme that they will enjoy using, and that we can be proud of.”
