Play sites rolled out across the borough

Children and young people across the borough will soon be able to enjoy new play sites that have been developed as part of the ‘Play Pathfinder’ scheme.

Construction work is drawing to a close on the 12 sites that have been developed in year one of the three year programme, with work soon to start on the 16 sites that are to be developed in the second year.

Rochdale Council was selected last year as one of only 20 local authorities across the country to become a ‘Play Pathfinder’ area, which means they receive around £2.5million of funding by central Government to develop play sites.

Play areas across the borough will be improved and developed to create cleaner, greener, safer environments for children.

Sites will receive new play equipment, undergo landscaping treatment, or have a combination of both. There will also be some sites that will be developed as open play spaces.

Consultation is now underway with residents for the 16 proposed sites scheduled for development in year two. There will also be an £800,000 adventure play ground developed at Falinge Park.

Sue Birtles, Play & Childcare Operations Manager, commented: “We are now approaching year two of this exciting pathfinder project where a total of 16 sites will be developed across the borough by March 2010. These sites are currently at consultation stage and we urge all residents to get involved and have their say on the proposed sites.”

Letters have been sent directly to households in the areas near to the proposed play sites asking for their feedback. If the feedback received about the sites is positive, the next stage of consultation will begin where residents can have a say on the designs of the play sites.

Councillor Davidson, Children, Schools & Families Portfolio Holder said that the improvement in play facilities in the borough will benefit children’s health: “Providing high-quality play facilities will encourage natural, outdoor play for children. It is vital that youngsters in the borough get the best possible start in life and this is just one part of our overall strategy to make sure every child matters.”