1 week Ago
Children can enjoy new play equipment at Florence Park in Chichester. The play area has been refurbished as part of Chichester District Council's £800,000 project to improve play areas across the district. The council asked local residents and park users last summer about the condition of the equipment.
(Image: Chichester District Council) They said it was mostly in good condition, needing only minor improvements. The refurbishment included adding new inclusive equipment, such as a musical play station and a roundabout, for children with disabilities and health conditions. Some equipment was replaced with similar but improved versions, such as a more user-friendly rope cargo net and an inclusive swing seat.
The seating benches were moved to spots that give parents and carers a better view of the entire play area. The play area surface was also refurbished, and the multi-use games area was refreshed, with the lines repainted. (Image: Chichester District Council) The council's Parks and Green Spaces team led the work, in partnership with a specialist external play area contractor.
Councillor Mark Chilton, cabinet member for finance, corporate services, and Chichester contract services at Chichester District Council, said: "We’re really pleased that the new and improved Florence Park play area is now open and ready for children, and their families and carers, to enjoy. "As well as being fun and enjoyable to use, play areas like this encourage creativity and provide a space for everyone to play and socialise together." The council plans to refurbish other play areas, including Parklands, Whyke Oval, Amphitheatre, Priory Park, and Oaklands Park, later this year.
The work is expected to finish by the end of the school summer holidays. Mr Chilton added: "Refurbishments of our other play areas are planned to take place after the Easter break, and with a staggered approach so that two play areas remain open at any time while the works take place. "Residents can see the exciting schemes being put forward for these play areas as part of our ‘Let’s Talk: Play Areas’ consultation, which is open until 5pm on 31 March 2025.
"To see the proposed improvements and to have your say, take part in our quick survey at: letstalk.chichester.gov.
uk/playareas/participate. "If you haven’t done so already, I’d encourage you to take a look at the plans for our new improved play areas and let us know what you think. "You can also visit our designated consultation web pages — letstalk.
chichester.gov.uk/playareas — where you will find background information; a range of frequently asked questions; and visuals of the proposed improvements.
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