An exciting play area upgrade is all set to swing into action for Cowdray Square in Deal during Spring of 2022 thanks to funding from the Government’s Contain Outbreak Management Fund (COMF) for Community Parks.
This follows Dover District Councils ambition to continue developing and improving play areas across the district since the national drive by government to raise the profile of play and produce local play strategies.
Consultation work had been undertaken with the local community during 2021.
Consultation Report
The works to upgrade the facility are being carried out by Safeplay Playground Services who were awarded the contract. Works are due to start in April 2022 and are set be completed within 1-2 months; this is to allow for newly grass seeded and planting areas to establish before the facility is opened.
The newly designed play space provides inclusive equipment for children of all abilities, focusing on 10 years and below but also providing some equipment for up to 14 year olds. The equipment includes:
- 3 x Cradle Swings
- Toddler Multiplay Unit
- Spring Rockers
- Spinning Dish
- Junior Multiplay Unit
- Basket Swing
- Rope Swing
- Zip Wire/ Aerial Runway
- Inclusive Roundabout Suitable For Wheelchair Users
- Picnic Bench and Seating Areas
- Assortment of plants and tress
Most of the equipment is made from robinia wood providing a natural look to the play area and will have longer life expectancy in comparison to other wood materials.
The new play area is set to be renamed on opening ‘The Platinum Jubilee Playground’ to commemorate the Queens Platinum Jubilee together with the various activities and events planned around the district area during 2022.
The Cowdray Square Playing Fields are also set to have improvements made, including a fence to form a new designated dog walking area, new football goal posts funded by Dover District Council.
These works are combined with the planned £40k refurbishment of Connaught Park Play Area in Dover; where works include replacement of the existing wooden logs which surround the play area and replacement of the existing slide which are set to be complete beggining of March 2022.
Cllr Oliver Richardson, DDC Cabinet Member for Community and Corporate Property said: “We are delighted to be able to use this funding to enhance this park for the community, and to help encourage people to enjoy the fresh air in safe outside spaces. We know these have been challenging times for families, and community parks provide a great place for parents and children to exercise, play and learn together”
For more information on the Contain Outbreak Management Fund, please see the GOV.UK website
For more information on the project, please contact propertyservices@dover.gov.uk
Progression Photos