Laverstock’s re-furbished play parks given top marks at ribbon cutting

A RIBBON-cutting ceremony, saw chair of Laverstock & Ford Parish Council, Nick Baker, join four school councillors from Greentrees Primary declare St Peter’s Play Park in Bishopdown Farm officially open.

Sitting right at the heart of the community, within treelined open space on St Peter’s Road, the play facility offers young children a unique environment where they are free to play, explore and have fun.

It is one of two play parks recently refurbished by Eibe Play for the council at Bishopdown Farm, after taking over ownership from Wiltshire Council. The other play park, at St Lukes Close, features opportunities for sensory play, with a new safety surface, musical chimes, high backed swings, an accessible multi play unit and sensory planting.

Students from South Wilts joined the celebrations on the day, as work experience for their Politics ‘A’ Level, with a focus on learning about Local Democracy,

Also present were PC Rachel Gunn and PCSO John Taylor from Wiltshire Police’s Community Policing Team.

“We’ve had such a brilliant time officially launching these fantastic new play parks – and the laughter and smiles of the local school children highlights what it’s really all about.” said Cllr Lesley Waller.

With an investment of £117,000 the two play parks are tailored for children younger than 11, with areas for sliding, climbing, swinging and multi-play.

Stuart Evans, from Eibe Play, said: “It is really important when designing a play area that we incorporate play equipment which maximises the play potential for children of all abilities, allowing children to play together, so no-one feels left-out.”

The Parish Council will shortly commence work on two further play parks at Bishopdown Farm: At Drakes Close, on behalf of Abri Housing, and a new play park on The Green alongside Sycamore Drive to ensure that children and families in the area have plenty of opportunity for creative and active play.