MPC(23)84.02
Beresford Drive Play Area Consultation
Background
The Beresford Drive Play Area consultation has now closed. The consultation took the form of an open day on the 3rd June, flyers to 800 properties and an online consultation that ran until the 30th June.
Results
83 responses were received in total and of these 68 used the play area and 15 didn’t, mainly because of their age.
All the equipment is used and the flat swings (currently out of action) are the most popular.
The most asked for equipment:
Slide
Swings
Roundabout
Climbing Frame
From the ‘other’ section the most requested were:
Football goal/Astro pitch – 12
Zip wire – 11
Benches/picnic benches – 10
Basketball hoop – 10
Unfortunately, the space is probably not big enough for a football goal or Astro pitch but a basketball hoop and benches could certainly be considered. There might not be sufficient space or funding to install a zip wire and there is already one provided at the Recreation Ground. The lessons learned from installing equipment at the Jubilee Green should also be considered if installing a basketball hoop.
There were a lot of single requests covering everything from cycle tracks to a toilet, many of which were not feasible and not requested enough to be considered. There were only three requests for adult exercise equipment.
Conclusion
The consultation has demonstrated that there is a need for this playpark and for it to be improved. The overall response was a desire to revamp the play area to make it a space that people are proud of, want to visit and provides imaginative play and equipment for all ages. There were some concerns about older children hanging out and intimidating younger children and the area being used for illegal activities. It is important that the layout and equipment should be mindful of these concerns.
The Recreation Working Group decided to create a sub working group to assist the office in managing the project which will consist of Cllrs Taylor, Gradwell and James. Cllr Darby would be able to assist in relation to accessibility as the need arises. Cllr Corston and a resident have also been asked to join.
Next steps
Approach at least three play companies, as well as advertising on Contracts Finder, with a brief to redevelop the whole play area. The brief will be developed by the Playpark Working Group in conjunction with the office using the data collected from the consultation and examples of local play parks/equipment that are well used and popular. Once indicative quotes are known the office will investigate what grants are available to help fund the project.
Recommendations
Members are asked to:
Note and comment on this report
Decide if they are happy to proceed as detailed in the Next Steps
Fliss Waters
Assistant Clerk
July 2023
