Work to refurbish the play area at Church Lane Park in Arnold is set to begin later this month, marking an exciting step towards a refreshed play space for children and families.
The £100,000 project, funded by FCC Communities Foundation, will create a more modern and inclusive play area, with new equipment designed to be enjoyed by more children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Contractors are due to begin work during the week commencing 17 August, with the play area closing to the public from Monday 24 August while the refurbishment is carried out.
Subject to favourable weather conditions, the works are expected to be completed towards the end of September, with the play area reopening to the public shortly afterwards.
The funding was secured through a partnership between Gedling Borough Council and the Friends of Church Lane Park, following consultation with the local community. Feedback from residents highlighted the importance of improving the play area and creating a more accessible and inclusive space for local children.
The refurbishment is the first phase of wider improvements planned for Church Lane Park, with further plans being developed for additional facilities for young people as part of a second phase.
Councillor Viv McCrossen, Portfolio Holder for Climate Change, Parks and Environmental Health, said: “We’re very pleased that work is now set to begin on this much-needed upgrade to the play area at Church Lane Park.
“This is a well-used space, and these changes are about making sure it continues to be somewhere children can have fun, be active and spend time outdoors with their friends and families.
“We are grateful to residents for their patience while the play area is temporarily closed. I’m sure it will be worth the wait, and it’ll be lovely to see families back using the space once the work is complete.”
FCC Communities Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that supports community, conservation and heritage projects through the Landfill Communities Fund.
Cheryl Raynor, Grant Manager at FCC Communities Foundation, said:
“We are delighted to be supporting the refurbishment of the play area at Church Lane Park. This project will transform a valued community facility, providing modern, accessible and inclusive play opportunities for children of all abilities.
We are particularly pleased to support improvements that have been shaped by local residents and will benefit families for many years to come. We look forward to seeing the new play area become a vibrant and welcoming space at the heart of the community.”
Leanne Gilchrist, Chair of the Friends of Church Lane Park, said: “It’s fantastic to see this project moving forward and work beginning on site. The Friends of Church Lane Park have worked closely with Gedling Borough Council and the local community to help secure the funding and shape the plans for the play area.
These new facilities will make a real difference for local families, and we’re looking forward to seeing the refurbished play area completed and open for everyone to enjoy.”
