New equipment has been installed in play areas in Rainham thanks to money from a local development.
As part of the planning process, developers are required to address the impact of larger developments by making contributions to support local infrastructure, including open spaces and play areas.
Rainham Recreation Ground, Ryetop and Bayswater Drive have benefitted from £79,996.
At Rainham Rec the old toddler play equipment has been replaced and new swings have been installed. The swings have also been replaced at Ryetop and a new toddler play unit, roundabout and play graphics have been installed for children to enjoy. A new seesaw, springer and new swings have been installed at the Bayswater Drive play area.
Medway Council will also be using the funding to improve Cherry Trees in Mierscourt Road. A public consultation was due to be held earlier this year but has been put on hold due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. It’s hoped the consultation will take place next spring and residents will be consulted before any works take place.
Putting young people at the centre of everything we do
Cllr Howard Doe, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Services, said: “I am pleased that the new play equipment was installed at the beginning of the summer, so children were able to enjoy the play areas during the summer holidays. The investment in Rainham’s play areas supports our aspiration for Medway to become a Child-Friendly City, putting our young people at the centre of everything we do. It is very important that we continue to invest in our local play areas to ensure children have somewhere to safely play and I was pleased that, a few months ago, Full Council approved plans to invest £135,000 in play areas across Medway. I hope children will enjoy using the new equipment.”
We have greatly enhanced the play facilities
Cllr Martin Potter, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Education and Schools, and Youth Champion, said: “I am delighted that we have greatly enhanced the play facilities in these parks for children to explore and enjoy. We are committed to becoming a Child-Friendly City and our continued investment in the long-term future of our play areas clearly supports this ambition. It is vital that we continue to encourage children to enjoy our open spaces and play areas as not only does it have great health benefits but it is also fun.”