A much-loved park has officially reopened with a new look and a range of new facilities.
Mayor of Cheshire East Councillor Barry Burkhill and Congleton Town Mayor Councillor Sally Ann Holland cut a ribbon to officially reopen the play area on 4 February.
The work has been possible through a funding grant of more than £100,000, made up of £50,000 from the FCC Communities Foundation Fund - a national charity that funds grass roots community projects across England and Scotland. The additional funding came from housing developments in Congleton and the Cheshire East parks development fund.
The design for the play area and choice of facilities was agreed following feedback and consultation with a variety of interest groups, including local ward members, Congleton Town Council, community group Friends of Congleton Park, local nursery groups, youth clubs and schools.
These schools included Daven Primary school, who along with Saint Mary’s Catholic Primary school, attended the opening event to see first hand their part in inspiring the play area. Despite the wet weather, pupils happily tried out the new equipment that has been designed to create interaction through imaginative play.
Mayor of Cheshire East Councillor Barry Burkhill said: “It’s a delight to see the extended junior playground that has been possible through the £100,000 investment. The playground is now more appealing to our younger visitors and provides a great deal of, not only fun, but also play and learning value.
“I am sure the extensive range of new equipment will be enjoyed for many years to come. Congleton Park has the added advantage of beautifully-manicured grounds, which are well tended by the dedicated gardeners, plus all of the efforts of the Friends of Congleton Park.”
Glen Williams, chairman of the Friends of Congleton Park, said “Congleton Park is a thriving, vibrant park and we have captured many opportunities for numerous creative improvements over the years.
“As the park enters its 150th anniversary, we see another chapter in its life, through this new extension. It is yet another example of this wonderful historical park making moves towards ensuring it is not only enjoyed but also capable of supporting the community of today and that of future generations.”