12th July 2007, 07/232
Play area 'swings' its way to Banksbarn
youngsters
Young people are enjoying brand new play facilities in Banksbarn
as another project funded through the £3.7m windfall for
Skelmerdale slides its way to success.
Work has recently finished at the site in Digmoor and it now boasts
popular traditional equipment as well as skateboarding ramps and a
multi use games area for teenagers.
Children can try out the swings, roundabout, slides and climbing
frame while older children can play sports such as football,
netball and basketball in the kick about area or use the skate
park.
CCTV cameras will also cover the site in order to encourage safety,
discourage anti social behaviour and to provide a reassurance for
residents.
Near to the new play area along Digmoor Road, an attractive
woodland walk has been created with new lighting and a better cycle
track to enhance the area.
More than 100 bird boxes have been built along the walk so that
families and wildlife lovers can enjoy the picturesque, natural
beauty of the area and watch the feathered friends nest
peacefully.
This latest work has been funded through the Safer Stronger
Communities cash injection of £3.7m to make Digmoor, Moorside and
parts of Tanhouse cleaner, greener and safer over the next three or
four years.
Rosie Cooper MP, Chair of the West Lancashire Local Strategic
Partnership, said: "Young people are really making the most of
their new play area in Banksbarn and the woodland walk and we have
had lots of positive feedback from the local community, which is
fantastic. I'm sure the £3.7m will continue to benefit local
people."
Cllr David Westley, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, said:
"Safety is always a concern for us which is why we will be
installing CCTV to protect children and the local community too. We
want people to use the facilities and we are pleased the scheme is
having such a positive impact."
There have also been many other physical improvement schemes funded
through the £3.7m, including enhancements to Digmoor Parade and the
construction of Beechtrees Community Garden - and many more are on
the way!
Margaret Highton, Chair of the Neighbourhood Board, added: "Lots of
other schemes have been funded through the £3.7m to make our areas
greener, cleaner and safer and the Neighbourhood Board are
continuing to work with the community to ensure that any projects
chosen meet the needs of local residents. We are always consulting
with residents and agencies to ensure that the money continues to
be spent on priories that matter to our neighbourhoods."
For information about the £3.7m project, contact Chris
Skinkis/Karen Warmington at the Neighbourhood Management Office, on
01695 737808 or email neighbourhood.management@westlancsdc.gov.uk.
Related information
> Council
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> Parks
and playgrounds