Upgraded play areas in Amber Valley near completion
Children and families across Amber Valley will soon be able to enjoy seven newly upgraded play areas following a £300,000 investment to improve outdoor spaces.
The funding, secured through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), will transform the popular parks into vibrant, welcoming and modern play spaces, ensuring they can be enjoyed for years to come.
Play areas at Alfreton Welfare Recreation Ground, Codnor Market Place Rec, Crays Hill QE2 Park, in Leabrooks, Crich Lane Rec, in Belper, Lee Lane Rec, in Langley Mill, Loscoe Denby Lane Rec, and Lower Hartshay Play Area in Ripley have all benefitted from the revitalisation project.
It follows a public consultation in October 2024, when residents had the opportunity to help shape the new designs. Following their feedback, play equipment supplier Kompan was selected to deliver the improvements.
In addition to these upgrades, the project has also included the replacement of individual play items at 13 additional sites, ensuring that well-loved parks remain safe and enjoyable.
Improvements to rubber wet-pour safety surfacing at various locations have also been completed, and work is underway to introduce new features at the borough’s two Splash Pads, with further details to be announced soon.
Today, councillor John McCabe, cabinet member for communities and street pride at Amber Valley Borough Council, spoke about the impact of these improvements.
He said: "It’s fantastic to see these much-needed improvements completed. We know how important play areas are for local families, and we wanted to make sure these spaces were designed with the community in mind.
“By involving residents in the decision-making process, we’ve been able to deliver play areas that are more inviting and exciting for children of all ages and abilities.
"High-quality play areas encourage children to be active, social, and creative, and these upgraded spaces will give families even more reasons to spend time outdoors together.
“Whether it's enjoying fresh new equipment or improved layouts, we hope children across Amber Valley will make fantastic memories here."
The upgrades include new play equipment and improved safety surfacing.
While the play area refurbishments are complete, some sites may remain temporarily fenced off while the grass or turf safety surfacing have fully established.
At Crich Lane Play Area, due to soft ground conditions, the bark will be removed and replaced with a new soil and turf safety surface once conditions improve enough to allow vehicle access.
As the newly upgraded sites open, residents are encouraged to visit and enjoy them.
The council is keen to hear residents’ thoughts and feedback on the improvements. People can complete a short survey by visiting the council’s website at www.ambervalley.gov.uk/consultation.
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