FAMILIES visiting Flatts Lane Woodland Country Park can enjoy a major addition to the play area designed for children aged nine years and under, delivered through a close partnership between the council and the Friends of Flatts Lane Woodland Country Park community group.
Significant creative input was also provided by the children from the Home School Group and visitors to the park. Their ideas helped shape a vibrant and inclusive design creating a space that now offers fun, adventure and safety for children of all ages.
The new additions to the play area includes brand new swings, climbing structures, an obstacle course and a slide, completely enhancing the previous play provision that was designed for older children. The improvements were carried out by local company Thompsons Timberwork, who also created hand crafted decorative wooden statues to enhance the space.
The play area’s transformation was celebrated during a ribbon cutting event on Friday, 30 May, when all those involved in this project were present for its official opening.
The project was funded through successful grant applications made by the Friends of Flatts Lane Woodland Country Park with support from council officers and additional funding from the council. Funding partners include Enovert Community Trust, The National Lottery Community Fund and Tees Foundation.
Cllr Adam Brook, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “This project is a brilliant example of what can be achieved when local people, community groups and the council work together. The upgraded play area will bring joy to many children. I would like to give my thanks to the Friends of Flatts Lane Country Park, our officers, the children from the Home School Group, visitors to the park, Thompsons Timberwork and our funders for making this project possible.”
Malcom Mitchell, Chair of the Friends group said: “On behalf of the Friends of Flatts Lane we are delighted to have had the opportunity to add features to the play area for younger children to enjoy and we'd like to thank those who made the project possible by their funding contributions.”
Nicky Graves, North – East Area Manager for Enovert Community Trust, said: “It is inspirational to see local people improving their area and working voluntarily to keep the natural environment pristine for all to enjoy. It is wonderful to see Landfill Credit funds put to excellent use in Teesside by Enovert Community Trust.”