Sidmouth Town Council has this week revealed the new designs for the Ham and Long Park Playparks which are ready after input from children, parents, and schools. Contractors are planning for the new infrastructure and equipment to be installed by the end of July though this will depend of course on whether any issues beyond their control arise.
Due to shortages of contractors post lockdown and factors beyond the Council’s control, the schemes have been delayed. This has been frustrating to Councillors, keen to see improvements at the play areas. Following the eventual appointment of a contractor, the Council has been working closely with them to ensure that the views and wishes of children and young people at Sidmouth schools and of the parents who attended our consultation meetings, were integrated into the new designs. Happily, the stage has been reached where the Council can present the schemes.
The indicative 3D renders of both parks have been circulated to local Schools and children to show the designs. The Council believes that this is an important step demonstrating the value of their previous contributions and to let them know their voices are important in the local decision-making process. The 3D images are indicative of how the constructed parks will look but elements such as seating, shelter and planting may vary slightly, and the planting will of course take time.
Louise Cole and Denise Bickley have been steering the project and they commented “We are really excited to see the final plans for this ahead of the building of these two new parks. This project comes at a time when children and parents value outdoor play spaces more than ever in helping children to have fun benefiting from both physical and mental wellbeing. We have been pushing hard for these projects to be delivered and are very hopeful that there will be no further delays”
The Council is hoping that the designs will create a buzz of excitement and something to look forward to very soon with play spaces to be proud of and have fun in.
