Full Article - Published: 09/10/2009Written By: 01/01/1970

Children can nominate which play area in Medway needs a new lease of life.

Medway Council was awarded £1million of government money earlier this year as part of the Playbuilder scheme to invest in children's play areas during the next two years.

The money will be used to develop a minimum of 22 play areas, with a focus on eight to 13-year-olds and ensuring play areas have better disabled access.

The scheme will also mean that the council can continue to provide safe, accessible and exciting play opportunities for all children.

The young residents are now being given the chance to help spend £550,000 and tell the council which 11 play areas need improving during the second phase of the project, which is due to begin next year. They can complete a confidential online questionnaire and tell the council which play areas they want improving.

Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Services Cllr Howard Doe said: “We are looking to create high quality play areas which will meet the needs of the local communities.

“We want to ensure the new and improved play areas meet children’s requirements, which is why we are asking them to get involved with the design process and tell us what they want to be included in the parks.”

Among the 11 areas marked for improvement during the first year are:
Beechings Way, Twydall
Cherry Trees, Miers Court Road, Rainham
Church Road, Cliffe
Darnley Road, Strood
The Street, High Halstow
Parkwood Green, Deanwood Drive
Rainham Recreation Ground, Scott Avenue, Rainham
Rookery Fields, Woodlands Road, Gillingham
Merryboys Road, Cliffe Woods

Work is due to start on these play areas by the end of the year. Nominate the park most in need of a makeover by visiting www.medway.gov.uk/playareas. Phone 01634 332499 or email heather.marsh@medway.gov.uk for more details.