Newport Parish Council recently conducted a survey to explore local community views on the creation of a new play area at the recreation ground off Frambury Lane, near the Primary School. The proposed site is where the Youth Club and Scout Hut are currently located.
This consultation was done in order to understand the needs of local residents, ensuring that community spaces reflect the wishes of those who use them. Please click on the following link for the full survey results: Newport Rec Survey Results
New Playground Q and A from the Parish Council:
Q: Did the Parish Council like the responses to the questionnaire?
A: Yes, overall. We got 125 replies, and many included useful ideas. More than half said they use a playground every week. We had hoped to hear more from teenagers or their parents.
Q: Why build a new playground when we already have the Dianna Sell playground at Gaces Meadow? Why not build a skatepark or waterpark instead?
A: The money for the new playground comes from the developers of Hollymead Square (Hills), and it must be used for a specific type of play area called a LEAP (Locally Equipped Area of Play). Skateparks and waterparks don’t count as LEAPs. Also, a waterpark would be too expensive for the Parish Council to maintain.
Q: Can outdoor gym equipment be added to the new playground?
A: No. Outdoor gym equipment must be in a separate area and doesn’t count as part of a LEAP. It would also need different funding.
Q: Why not use the money to make the Dianna Sell playground bigger?
A: There are two reasons. First, the new playground needs to be close to the new houses that provided the money. Gaces Meadow is about 600 metres away and requires crossing Wicken Road. Second, expanding Gaces Meadow would reduce the open green space there, which is important for the community.
Q: Will the new playground have the same equipment as Gaces Meadow?
A: Some items, like swings, are standard in all playgrounds. But the new one will try to include different and more varied equipment, especially for older children. It will also take into account that the Primary School and Early Years are nearby.
Q: The questionnaire didn’t mention seating. Will there be any?
A: Yes. Seating is considered essential and will be included.
Q: Will there be a sand pit?
A: No. Sand pits in public playgrounds are too expensive to keep clean and safe for a small Parish Council.