Youngsters paid for at-risk playground
ONE of the playgrounds at risk of being removed by Kirklees Council wasn’t even paid for with council cash, it has emerged.
The playground at Woods Avenue in Marsden is less than six years old and was built thanks to an impressive £70,000 sum raised by village youngsters, who had been told the council could not afford to fund new equipment.
And the children and teenagers behind the Marsden Youth Group opted to purchase higher quality equipment than what is normally installed in council playgrounds, including an £8,000 ‘Youth Pod’ shelter, an £8,000 climbing frame, a £4,500 rope swing and tens of thousands worth of landscaping and rubber matting.
As reported, that playground, opened in August 2013, is now one of those at threat of being ripped out as part of the council’s £10m play strategy.
A total of 137 smaller playgrounds have been earmarked to have all their swings, slides and climbing frames removed as the council says it can’t afford to maintain them or replace equipment when it wears out.
They will be revamped as ‘Doorstep Playable Space’ featuring boulders and landscaping to encourage children to play in them.
More than 100 medium sized playgrounds will be revamped, as will the borough’s 13 “Destination Parks” - larger playgrounds at places like Beaumont Park and Oakwell Hall.
Stephen Knight, a community activist who was involved with the project in 2012/13, said he was furious at the council’s proposal.
“It should be saved,” he said.
“The council don’t even own the equipment. They really should have done a bit more consultation.
“If they’re going to close a playground they should go and speak to the groups involved.”
He added: “The kids have done really well to provide this playground - they are a credit to Kirklees.”
Colne Valley Tory, Clr Donna Bellamy, said she was seeking talks with the council as it was unclear what would happen to the equipment, which is still in a good condition.
She said she believed there was paperwork that proved the assets could not be removed.
And she said the council’s play strategy was clearly not suitable for rural areas like hers.
“I’m stunned,” she said.
“I don’t know where this has come from as this certainly isn’t what people want.
“Taking the small parks out and putting in open spaces and boulders isn’t right for here.
“We’re surrounded by open spaces. “There’s a moor right behind the play area covered in big rocks, so that sort of play opportunity is already there.
“The whole strategy needs looking at again.”
Kirklees Council has said it is seeking views on its plans, which are due to begin over the next three years, but has not yet provided any details on how members of the public can contribute.
The council was approached for comment on the Woods Avenue park but has not responded.